Connecting the Dots: What Your Acne Breakout Is Trying To Tell You

Pimples are impurities that you want to wish away. You probably perfected the art of covering them up, but underneath the layer of concealer, they’re still there. If you want to say goodbye to acne breakouts for good, you need to listen to your body and let it tell you what’s happening on this inside. 

Take a closer look at where you’re breaking out. A theory called “face mapping” suggests that where your acne shows up can give you insights about your internal health. Keep in mind that having a breakout doesn’t automatically suggest that you have a serious health condition. But if you have chronic or cystic acne that just won’t go away, your body might be trying to tell you that something’s wrong.

What Is Face Mapping?

Baszicare Chapman Lee, Chinese scholar and co-founder of his skincare line, explains that face mapping is the reflection of the body’s organs on each part of the face. By observing the face’s complexion — from texture to dullness and color to breakouts — we can determine what’s going on inside our bodies.

A Reflection of Internal Health Problems

Here are five acne-prone areas of the face that may want to say something about your health:

  1. Forehead: Breakouts in this region may indicate that you’re experiencing poor digestion. It can also suggest liver problems, stress, or irregular sleeping habits. Using bitter herbs or digestive enzymes like bromelain and papaya before each meal can aid in faster digestion. If you suspect liver issues, drinking hot lemon water in the morning can help.Forehead Image
  2. Between the brows: Greasy meals from local fast food restaurants may be the culprit here. Sticking with healthy choices on top of avoiding too much alcohol is key to clear this area from breakouts. If you find pimples between the brows after a night out, your liver might be telling you that you had consumed too much grease and alcohol.Between the brows Image
  1. Cheeks: Patchiness or discoloration on the cheeks can indicate poor metabolism and low absorption of nutrients. Additionally, the cheeks link with lung functions, so it’s important to pay close attention to your breathing. Allergies that affect the respiratory system are also root causes of acne breakouts on the cheek.Cheeks Image
  1. Chin: The chin is most likely where hormonal imbalances and stress will make their presence known, which means women are more liable to experience breakouts in this area during their menstrual cycle. Reducing stress, getting an adequate amount of sleep, and exercising will help heal blemishes around the chin. This area is also linked to the small intestine. Diet changes consisting of fruits and vegetables can make a huge difference.Chin Image
  1. Nose: The emergence of swollen acne and bulbous changes to the nose signify high blood pressure. Diet modification is essential to remedy breakouts in this region. Avoiding energy drinks and excess sodium, as well as eating more fruits and veggies promote low blood pressure and excellent heart health.Nose Image

Before you begin obsessing over the location of your blemishes, ensure that poor hygiene or skin infections aren’t causing the problem. Always maintain a regular skincare routine, but remember that some breakouts can be treated from the inside.