Skin Troubles? TCM Reveals the Hidden Imbalances Behind Them

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views health holistically, emphasizing balance within the body. For optimal well-being, the smooth circulation of qi (vital energy) and blood is essential, maintaining harmony between the cooling forces of yin and the warming forces of yang. Since all bodily functions are interconnected, skin issues often arise from internal imbalances.​

Stress is considered a primary disruptor of this balance. When stress accumulates, it can stagnate Liver Qi, which in turn generates Heat and Toxins that rise to the surface of the skin. This leads to skin imbalances like breakouts, rashes, and eczema. Stress also weakens the digestive system, contributing to dampness and poor digestion, which further exacerbate skin problems. Long-term stress and unresolved emotions can lead to poor Blood circulation, contributing to dark, stubborn acne scars and slow-healing breakouts.

Beyond stress, other factors contribute to skin imbalances:​

• Sluggish Metabolism: Poor qi or blood circulation can hinder the body's ability to eliminate toxins effectively, leading to their expulsion through the skin as acne.​
• Excess Heat: The lungs, responsible for nourishing the skin with qi and blood, may produce excess heat, worsening skin conditions. Similarly, digestive issues, particularly stomach heat, can trigger breakouts. Heat in the blood may also cause inflammation, resulting in rashes or a persistent feeling of warmth. ​
• Dampness-Heat: An accumulation of excess moisture combined with heat can lead to oily skin, eczema, and acne.​

Overall, TCM views skin concerns not merely as superficial problems but as reflections of deeper internal imbalances. By primarily addressing stress and its cascading effects, alongside other contributing factors, TCM aims to restore harmony within the body, promote clearer skin, and facilitate natural healing from the inside out.

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