Acne Location Indicates Different Diseases
Acne is a chronic inflammation of hair follicles and sebaceous glands, commonly known as "pimples" or "acne vulgaris." These bumps on smooth facial skin not only cause local itching and pain but also slightly affect appearance. Nowadays, acne is no longer exclusive to teenagers—many middle-aged people suffer from it, indicating underlying health issues.
From a TCM perspective, acne in different facial areas reflects dysfunction of specific internal organs. The human body is an integrated whole; internal organ pathologies manifest externally in various ways. Different facial zones correspond closely to different organs, so imbalances in organ function lead to acne in corresponding facial areas.
Long-term overthinking and mental exhaustion often cause heart fire accumulation and upward flaming of heart fire, resulting in forehead acne—warning individuals to balance work and rest appropriately. Long-term consumption of spicy, greasy foods and alcohol leads to internal heat in the spleen and stomach, causing indigestion, dry mouth, bad breath, constipation, and frequent nose pimples—indicating a need to adjust dietary habits. Excessive stress without proper release leads to liver qi stagnation, manifesting as irritability, sudden anger over minor matters, and cheek acne—suggesting the need to regulate emotions and relax. Some women experience recurring chin acne, especially days before menstruation, often linked to menstrual disorders and premenstrual syndrome, requiring targeted treatment.
Additionally, if women’s facial acne persists, besides checking for organ dysfunction, consider whether cosmetics are improperly used. Long bangs or oily hair gel may cause forehead acne—change hairstyle or switch products, avoiding contact with forehead. Using unsuitable moisturizers or foundation, or applying makeup too thickly, often clogs pores, causing cheek acne—thus reduce makeup frequency and choose suitable cosmetics. Residual fluoride toothpaste around the mouth from brushing can also irritate skin and cause localized acne—always rinse mouth thoroughly after brushing.
Besides location, acne color also reveals disease information: bright red acne indicates internal heat; darker-colored acne suggests liver stagnation, kidney deficiency, or blood stasis.
Regardless of where acne appears, maintain emotional well-being and healthy diet—often overlooked but key triggers for acne onset and aggravation. Also, keep face clean regularly and avoid squeezing lesions to prevent infection, follicular blockage, worsening condition, or scarring. Seek medical advice for severe cases.