What You Skin Is Trying To Tell You

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), face mapping is a diagnostic tool that links specific areas of the face to internal organ systems. This ancient method is based on the idea that imbalances in our organs can manifest externally on the skin through acne, discolouration, dryness, puffiness or other visible symptoms. Each area of the face reflects an organ's physical and emotional state.

Lung Area (Lower Cheeks)

Emotional Signs:

• Grief

• Sadness

• Difficulty letting go

Physical Signs:

• Low immunity, frequent colds or coughs

• Asthma or shortness of breath

• Excessive or lack of sweating

• Fatigue, tiredness

• Weak voice

• Occipital headaches

• Elimination issues

Liver Area (Middle of Brows & Under Eyes)

Emotional Signs:

• Anger or frustration (excessive or suppressed)

• Moodiness, resentment

• Stress, irritability

Physical Signs:

• PMS, irregular or painful periods

• Constipation

• Tendon or ligament issues

• Shoulder, neck tension

• Eye issues: gritty, dry, red, floaters

• Headaches

• Toxin overload (diet or environment)

Heart Area (Above Brows & Tip of Nose)

Emotional Signs:

• Lack of joy, self-love, or self-acceptance

• Emotional extremes (depression or mania)

• Easily startled

• Shock or trauma

Physical Signs:

• Speech problems (stuttering, excessive or minimal talking)

• Eye issues & lack of eye contact

• Palpitations, chest pain

• Emotional sweating (palms, whole-body)

• Heat-related symptoms

Bladder Area (Forehead above brows & Chin)

Emotional Signs:

• Fear, insecurity, indecision

• Mood swings

Physical Signs:

• Dehydration

• Frequent urination or UTIs

• Prolapsed organs (uterus)

• Neck stiffness, occipital headaches

• Diabetes

• Joint problems, arthritis

Spleen & Stomach Area (Above Lip, Top Lip, Cheeks, Nose)

Emotional Signs:

• Worry

• Overthinking

• Mental exhaustion

Physical Signs:

• Digestive problems: IBS, bloating, bad breath, poor appetite, weak stool

• Muscle weakness or cramps

• Varicose veins, hemorrhoids, prolapse

• Anemia or poor blood circulation

• Dry mouth, low energy

Large Intestine Area (Sides of Nose to Jawline & Lower Lip)

Emotional Signs:

• Difficulty letting go

• Guilt, regret

• Stubbornness, control issues

Physical Signs:

• Constipation, diarrhea, bloating

• Bad breath, smelly stools

• Swollen gums

• Hair loss or thinning

• Colon issues (colitis, diverticulitis, cancer)

• Weight gain

Small Intestine Area (Middle of Forehead)

Emotional Signs:

• Anxiety, melancholy

• Irritability

• Pessimism

Physical Signs:

• Bloating, gas, gut inflammation

• Constipation

• PMS

• Leaky gut

• Trouble focusing

Kidney Area (Under Eyes, Chin, Ears)

Emotional Signs:

• Fear, insecurity

• Isolation

Physical Signs:

• Reproductive hormone imbalance (PCOS, fertility)

• Bone issues (osteoporosis, teeth, brittle bones)

• Hair thinning

• Low willpower or motivation

• Urinary health concerns

Gallbladder Area (Outer Corners of the Eyes)

Emotional Signs:

• Fear of failure

• Indecisiveness

• Shyness

Physical Signs:

• Bloating, dizziness

• Sluggish digestion

• Craving greasy foods

• High cholesterol

• Gallstones

TIPS FOR BALANCED SKIN & ORGAN HEALTH:

• Drink plenty of water

• Reduce exposure to toxins (e.g. chemicals in skincare, household cleaners)

• Eat organic, whole foods & reduce inflammatory or allergenic foods

• Sleep well (ideally before 12 am)

• Wash pillowcases often

• Cleanse your skin daily & never sleep with makeup on

• Reduce stress with grounding, meditation, journaling, or time in nature

• Move daily – walking, yoga, weights

• Avoid overeating – eat slowly and mindfully

• Support detoxification with herbal teas or supplements

• Address emotional blockages – let go of resentment, fear or sadness

If symptoms persist or worsen, seek professional guidance from a TCM practitioner or holistic health provider