Face Mapping: What Do My Breakouts Mean?
Face maps are a useful [adjunct] tool used to determine possible underpinning issues that can contribute to skin problems. Rooted in ancient healing practices, Traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic philosophy there are many variations of face maps and some differences in what they all signify. However, they can provide important clues to what might be contributing to acne formation in the skin and possible underlying health issues that warrant further exploration. While they are not used for a definitive diagnosis, they can provide some useful insight during a skin assessment.
But what does it all mean and what can we do about it? Let’s break it down.
The Forehead
Breakouts affecting this zone are linked to stress and an overactive SNS (Sympathetic Nervous System) and hormones that become dominant causing stress, can also manifest into problems in this zone. Foods that are inflammatory such as gluten and dairy can be acne triggers and contribute to poor detoxification. Liver overload due to alcohol, drugs, highly processed foods, endogenously produced and environmental toxins may also hinder detoxification and showing up in this region.
If you suspect stress to be a trigger for you, trying mindfulness breathing techniques and meditation practices can be helpful with learning to manage stress. If you are new to meditation Smiling Mind, Headspace, Insight Timer and Plum Village are some great apps you can use for guided meditations. As little as 10 minutes a day can make the world of difference. Taking a walk outdoors, listening to some music, journaling, or spending time with someone you love can be also beneficial.
If you suspect food sensitivity or intolerance or suffer from digestive issues, an elimination diet of certain food groups may help to pinpoint any problematic foods. Speak with your health practitioner to determine if this is a suitable option for you.
The Cheeks
This zone can be largely attributed to lifestyle factors, with dirty phones and pillowcases, contact with oily and/or product ladened hair, comedogenic make up and skincare, all common triggers. Diet-related problems, gut dysbiosis and imbalance of hormones can also show up in this region as papules, pustules, comedones and cystic lesions. This area is very delicate and scars easily so while it can be quite tempting to squeeze, its best left alone with only a topical treatment [we love Organic Spa Blemish Control] used to accelerate the healing process.
The Upper Lip
Hair follicles in this region can become blocked with debris and excess oil. Hair removal methods (ie. waxing, plucking) can expose the follicles to bacteria so its not uncommon to see pustules forming in this region or blockages such as whiteheads and blackheads as the hair starts to re-grow. Comedogenic ingredients in lip products can also block the follicles resulting in comedones (blackheads and whiteheads).
The Chin and Jawline
The main culprits here are usually hormones and this is the zone largely affected during ‘that-time-of-the-month’. Digestive issues such as constipation, bloating and a diet high in processed food, refined carbohydrates, sugars, dairy can also affect this area.
The Neck and Lower Jaw
A sluggish and backed up lymphatic system can show up in this region with papulopustular and cystic lesions indicating stagnation. Hormonal imbalances can also show up in the lower jaw and neck region of the face.
13 ways you can mitigate new breakouts and prevent worsening of existing acne
Avoid touching your face throughout the day
Eat an array of wholefoods, fruit, vegetables and leafy greens that are high in fibre to keep the bowels regular
Reduce processed foods with added sugars and trans fats.
Drink at least 1.5 litres of water throughout the day
Keep moving. Moderate exercise is important for lymphatic circulation and can also help with regular bowel movement. A 20 minute brisk walk daily can do the trick.
Change your pillow cases every few days
Take some regular time out for selfcare.
Meditation and mindfulness are great strategies for stress management
Sanitise your phone regularly and avoid contact of your phone with the skin
Keep your hair off your face and use hair care with non-comedogenic ingredients
Clean hands and skin prior to hair removal
Use a post-waxing solution or alcohol based toner to sanitise the skin after hair removal
Consider that gluten and dairy products may not be suitable for you. Speak to your healthcare provider about this.
Of course there are many reasons why acne might be triggered for you and many other things your can do to help prevent further breakouts. This map is merely a guide on possible causes with some tips that can reduce common triggers. If you’d like some additional support get in touch.
