What is Face Mapping Skin Analysis?
Face mapping skin analysis, sometimes referred to as Chinese face mapping, stems from a 3,000-year-old practice in Chinese culture, where different parts of the face are linked to specific organs. This type of skin analysis does not just rely on one’s facial areas, but also includes other factors such as the person’s general lifestyle, age, and even their diet. Based on this approach, breakouts or other skin issues like dryness of the face are due to a bodily imbalance, and where these blemishes or changes happen on the face determines which organ is affected.
So, what is Chinese face mapping in practice? This framework helps connect specific facial zones to internal health issues
While the approach is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acne face mapping instead emphasizes more on scientific reasons for breakouts and acne, looking at what different acne locations mean to determine the root cause and then resolving it with the help of an acne clinic doctor.
What Do Breakouts in Different Areas of the Face Mean?
A key part of face mapping involves analysing the different areas of breakouts which may point to identifying the type of acne you may have. It also is said to give us an insight into the potential underlying causes, like hormones, poor diet, or stress. Below are common acne locations and what they mean.
T-zone (Forehead, Nose, and Chin)
This zone covers your forehead, nose, and chin. The cause of acne in this zone is usually attributed to the over-production of sebum, as the area has a higher number of oil glands when compared with the rest of the face. As this zone can be divided into several sections, each has a different potential reason as to why there are breakouts in the area.
For example, acne on the forehead and nose might fall under the category of comedonal acne. While the cause of breakouts in the area may be mostly attributed to stress and the lack of sleep, it is mainly caused by frequent touching of our faces. Our hands carry numerous bacteria from interacting with the world around us, such as the doorknob of a public washroom, or the railings of a staircase. When we touch our forehead and nose, we transfer these bacteria to our skin, which can clog pores and lead to acne.
Chin
When it comes to breakouts on the chin, it is usually caused by hormonal acne. They appear as inflamed cysts and are caused by an increase in androgens. As the level of androgens rise, the sebaceous glands are stimulated to produce more oil which can block your pores and lead to breakouts. This is commonly seen in women and teenagers, as puberty, the menstrual cycle, and pregnancy often trigger hormonal changes.
Hairline
Hairline issues generally look at the possibility of a buildup in hair or makeup products on the skin, clogging up or causing irritation of the pores. This is referred to as pomade acne, or acne cosmetica, aptly named after the substance used for styling your hair and affects men and women of all ages. In other cases, it may be due to a buildup of sweat when you’re wearing hats or headbands.
Various haircare products may usually be oily and waxy, and if they spread to our skin or aren’t thoroughly cleaned, they can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Additionally, some ingredients used in these products may be comedogenic, or pore-clogging, which ironically increases your risk of acne. It’s said there are at least 120 comedogenic ingredients that can cause acne breakouts.
We always recommend that you look for non-comedogenic products to ensure your pores are not blocked during your regular skincare routine, as well as thoroughly cleansing your hairline and the surrounding areas of any residue left behind.
Cheeks
External factors are generally the main culprit behind breakouts on the cheeks. What these external factors are can vary: in some cases, it could be due to air pollution; in other cases, it may be blamed on your diet or even genetics.
One common cause may be due to acne mechanica, which develops due to friction or pressure on the skin. This can happen to people who frequently wear helmets, tight-fitting clothing, or from regular face mask use that leads to breakouts of “maskne” – an umbrella term for skin conditions that can occur when you wear a face mask (including acne).
Dermatologists note that your cheeks’ skin is more prone to getting dry and irritated compared to other areas of your face. There are ways to deal with it, such as regularly changing face masks every few hours, especially with Singapore’s hot and humid climate. Make a point to keep things clean as well if you need to bring them close to your face – and that includes your smart phone. It might surprise you to know how quickly your smart phone can accumulate germs on its surface, especially if you don’t clean it often!
How is acne face mapping used?
Identifying Areas of Breakout
Divide your face into different zones using a face map and identify the areas where you are experiencing breakouts. By understanding different acne locations and what they mean allows you to narrow down the possible causes of your acne, and aid in developing a plan to counter them. It might also be useful to keep a record of where these breakouts take place, and what they look like as this will help you track changes in your skin over time and identify any patterns or triggers.
Consider Lifestyle Factors
Making changes in your lifestyle can also help in fighting acne. For example, if you tend to burn the midnight oil, you may want to work towards getting more sleep. Or if you are someone who is in a field of work or study that is known to be fast paced, you can consider finding ways to lower your stress levels. However, avoid making sudden changes to your skincare routine, as this can irritate your skin and potentially make your acne worse.
Monitor Your Skin
We often focus more on the appearance of our pimples compared to the overall condition of our skin. However, did you know that your skin condition can also play a part in the development of acne? By keeping a check on the health of your skin, you can identify any changes or issues that may be causing your acne.
Consult an Expert
If your acne is persistent or severe, it is recommended to speak with a doctor or dermatologist, as they can assess your skin and provide a personalised treatment plan. While face mapping may provide a general sense of changes to be made to deal with acne, it shouldn’t be a complete replacement to a professional consultation.
Struggling with Acne Breakouts?
Acne breakouts, no matter which part of your face they affect, can be of great concern to you. If you have been wondering, “What is face mapping?” and how it can help manage acne breakouts, Contact us at CuraMed Medical and Aesthetic Clinic for a consultation with our highly qualified doctors and start your skincare journey with us.
