Acne has no age limit. If this pathology has long been associated with adolescence, more and more adult women also suffer from it. Hence the emergence of face mapping, which aims to target the origin of pimples. This technique has not been the subject of any study, and we have no proof of its effectiveness.
Face mapping inherited from the Chinese tradition
This trend seeks to map pimples according to the different areas of the face. It is inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, in which the body is full of meridians connected to our organs and passes through the qi, the vital energy.
So, still, according to these meridians, it would be possible to establish a link between a pimple on the forehead and an organ malfunctioning. Therefore, it needs to be treated or pampered. Although it is plausible, we should take this assertion with caution. It depends on many internal and external factors and will concern very localized acne rather than attacks that cover the face. Moreover, it has not been proven that the meridians have a direct link with acne. It is, therefore, always recommended to consult a professional before drawing your conclusions, but it remains that if the acne is very localized, it is possible to eliminate certain leads.
To each area its organ
If we stick to Chinese medicine, it would seem that :
- Reactions on the forehead are linked to the digestive system;
- The eyebrows to the liver;
- On the nose to the cholesterol level;
- On the cheeks to the lungs;
- On the chin to the stomach;
- On the jawbones to hormones;
- And on the temples to the kidneys.
From there, it is then a question of calming the inflammation by treating the organ concerned through detox, food rebalancing, a probiotic intake and/or questioning one’s habits. In general, common sense is the key.
Acne, the result of certain excesses
Without falling into face-mapping, when acne is not severe and relatively localized, it is necessary to ask the right questions: Did I overdo it? Have I partied too much? Did I overeat fat or sugar? Am I on a treatment that doesn’t suit me?
Pimples can result from some of our bad habits. But this recent Western pathology is still little understood: we know very little about acne and its causes, but studies are beginning to emerge. One, in particular, that was not dedicated to acne nevertheless shows that the population of Asian countries is much less affected by skin problems and acne in particular.
We must combine this observation with a diet radically different from the typical Western one, which excludes dairy products and gluten, for example. It is, therefore, quite normal that when consulting a dermatologist, the latter advises making an appointment with an endocrinologist if the problem is hormonal or a nutritionist if the diet is to be reviewed. Acne can be linked to lifestyle. It can be linked to stress, lack of sleep, or pollution. If the pimples are limited to the forehead, it may be due to a mistake of too occlusive cosmetics because this area is naturally more oily, and it will be, in this case, retention acne. It can also be due to the hairstyle, especially in the presence of bangs. On the cheeks, the effects of contact with objects that are not always very clean, such as telephones or poorly cleaned brushes, can have an impact. The key is examining your habits and lifestyle to identify a potential trigger.
Face mapping, in the absence of proof, offers the opportunity to take stock of one’s lifestyle and eating habits and consider one’s state of health as a whole.
Disclaimer
The links between acne and certain organ dysfunctions, according to Chinese medicine, are not scientifically proven. This complementary approach can in no way replace conventional acne treatments. Nevertheless, suppose it is part of a global treatment by a dermatologist. In that case, it can improve the disease experience (despite a relative lack of scientific studies to attest to their effectiveness). In agreement with your doctor, you can use them and appreciate their benefits.