Understanding and Managing Hyperpigmentation: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine

November 28, 2023

Hyperpigmentation (symmetrical distribution of light brown or yellowish-brown spots on the face) is a skin problem that troubles many women. In Chinese medicine, it is called "face dust" or "dark spots", and it is believed to be closely related to the liver, spleen, and kidneys, with the liver being the main factor.

Modern women bear the dual pressures of work and family, which can easily lead to emotional imbalances and anxiety. If not released in a timely manner, this pent-up frustration can cause liver stagnation. Liver stagnation often affects the spleen, leading to spleen deficiency and possible blood stasis. Liver and kidneys are interrelated, and the overactivity of liver fire caused by liver stagnation (due to liver and kidney yin deficiency, unable to nourish the yang fire residing in the liver and kidneys, leading to pathological changes of upward flaming) is also one of the main causes of hyperpigmentation.

Traditional Chinese medicine treatment for hyperpigmentation includes the commonly used Xiaoyao Pill, as well as targeted solutions for different conditions. For example, Sijunzi Pill is used for spleen deficiency, Taohong Siwu Tang is used for blood stasis, and Liuwei Dihuang Pill is used for kidney yin deficiency.

In addition to oral medication, topical medication can also directly target the affected areas. Traditional Chinese medicine often uses "Babai San", a formula composed of eight Chinese herbs (Syzygium aromaticum, Bombyx batryticatus, Clematis chinensis, Tribulus terrestris, Bletilla striata, Angelica dahurica, Aconitum carmichaelii, and Poria cocos), to make a mask applied to the areas with hyperpigmentation. The specific method is to grind the above herbs into a very fine powder, apply a thin layer on the face every night after applying night cream, which can help prevent hyperpigmentation.

It is worth mentioning that lightening hyperpigmentation is a gradual process and should not be rushed. Most whitening and spot-removing products on the market are slightly acidic, which can easily cause dryness of the skin. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to moisturizing and replace products with moisturizing effects during skincare routine.

For women with hyperpigmentation, it is important to strengthen sun protection in daily life. After applying sunscreen, gently press a powder with sun protection factor on the cheekbones and the tip of the nose using a powder puff. This can achieve multiple sun protection and prevent the formation of hyperpigmentation. In addition, as liver stagnation is the main cause of hyperpigmentation, it is recommended that women learn to regulate their emotions, not to dwell on trivial matters, and to approach people and things around them with a calm mindset.

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