By Zoe Papadatos, founder and leading acupuncturist of Coastal Wellness Cottage
In traditional cultures the skin is not merely a barrier to the external world but a dynamic reflection of internal health. Unlike modern dermatology, which often focuses on treating skin concerns at the surface level, traditional cultures views the skin as a window into the body’s overall wellbeing. Changes in skin texture, colour, and condition as well as breakouts in these specific areas are seen as indicators of deeper imbalances within organs, blood circulation, and energy (Qi) flow. A method called Facial Mapping is a diagnostic technique in traditional Chinese medicine, providing insight into internal disharmonies that alter skin appearance.
What could face mapping tell us about your skin and overall health?
Forehead
Related systems: digestive and nervous system
Common issues: bloating, indigestion, stress, poor sleep
Traditional insight: breakouts or redness here may suggest an overworked digestive system, often caused by excessive consumption of processed foods, sugar, or alcohol. It may also indicate high stress and poor sleep habits.
Solutions: improve digestion by eating warm, cooked foods, drinking herbal teas like ginger, peppermint or camomile, and practicing stress relief techniques such as meditation and mindfulness.
Between the Eyebrows
Related systems: liver, detoxification and nervous system
Common issues: anger, toxicity build–up, high stress
Traditional insight: the liver is responsible for detoxification and the smooth flow of energy in traditional medicine. A congested liver, due to alcohol, heavy foods, or unexpressed emotions, may cause breakouts, deep lines, or redness in this area.
Solutions: reduce alcohol and fried foods, incorporate bitter greens (like dandelion and kale), and practice deep breathing exercise.
Temples and Around the Eyes
Related system: adrenals
Common issues: fatigue, dehydration, poor detoxification
Traditional insight: the kidneys store essence (Jing), which influences vitality and ageing. Dark circles, puffiness, or fine lines may indicate dehydration, kidney weakness, or adrenal fatigue from overwork and stress or nutritional deficiencies.
Solutions: hydrate well, avoid excessive caffeine, consume warm and wholesome foods and get adequate rest to nourish adrenal energy.
Nose/Upper Lip
Related system: circulatory system and emotional health
Common issues: emotional and mental health, stress, blood pressure
Traditional insight: redness or swelling on the nose may indicate cardiovascular stress. Persistent redness may be a sign of excessive heat in the heart, often due to emotional stress or an unbalanced diet.
Solutions: engage in regular cardiovascular exercise, consume heart–healthy foods like omega–3 rich fish and walnuts, and practice relaxation techniques.
Cheeks
Related system: respiratory and digestive system/immune health
Common issues: respiratory allergies, poor digestion, skin sensitivity, poor immunity
Traditional insight: the lungs control skin health, so acne, dryness, or irritation here may suggest lung Qi deficiency or respiratory sensitivity. Redness or rosacea–like symptoms can also point to stomach inflammation.
Solutions: avoid dairy and excessive spicy foods, practice deep breathing exercises, and consider herbs like licorice root or astragalus to support lung health.
Mouth and Chin
Related systems: endocrine and nervous system, reproductive organs
Common issues: hormonal imbalances, menstrual irregularities, stress–related breakouts
Traditional insight: breakouts around the chin and jawline are often linked to hormonal fluctuations and imbalances. In women, this area is associated with the reproductive organs, and imbalances may be related to menstrual cycles, PCOS, or stress.
Solutions: maintain hormonal balance with a nutrient–dense diet focusing on protein and fresh fruit and vegetables, regulate sleep cycles, nervous system calming and herbal medicine and acupuncture.
Jawline and Neck
Related System: lymphatic system, detoxification
Common Issues: poor detoxification, water retention, sluggish circulation
Traditional Insight: swelling, breakouts, or puffiness in this area can signal a sluggish lymphatic system struggling to remove toxins efficiently.
Solutions: stimulate lymphatic drainage through gua sha or facial massage, drink plenty of water, saunas and incorporate detoxifying foods like leafy greens and citrus fruits.
If you notice persistent skin issues, consider consulting a licensed practitioner who can provide a more personalised assessment and holistic treatment plan tailored to your unique constitution. Your face truly is a reflection of our internal health so it is time to tune it and listen to what it is telling you.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.
Zoe Papadatos is the founder and leading acupuncturist of Coastal Wellness Cottage. Coastal Wellness is a safe and nurturing space where women can access a range of services to support them through all stages of their lives. Find out more at www.coastalwellness.com.au or on social media @coastalwellness__