How to treat melasma with traditional Chinese medicine

TCM treatment of chloasma is mainly through the combination of internal regulation and external treatment. The common methods include oral administration of Chinese medicine, acupuncture and moxibustion therapy, external application of Chinese medicine, diet conditioning and emotional regulation. Melasma is often related to factors such as liver depression and qi stagnation, spleen deficiency and dampness accumulation, and insufficient kidney yin, and requires differentiation and treatment.

1. Oral administration of traditional Chinese medicine

Select formulas that can soothe the liver, relieve depression, invigorate the spleen, dispel dampness, or nourish yin and kidney according to the syndrome type. People with liver depression and qi stagnation can choose Xiaoyao Pill, which contains ingredients such as Bupleurum chinense and Angelica sinensis, and helps to harmonize qi and blood. For those with spleen deficiency and dampness accumulation, Shen Ling Bai Zhu San is suitable, containing ginseng, Poria cocos, etc., which can strengthen the spleen and dispel dampness. People with insufficient kidney yin often use Liuwei Dihuang pills, which contain cooked rehmannia, cornus officinalis, etc., to nourish kidney yin. It is necessary to adjust the medication after syndrome differentiation by Chinese medicine practitioners.

2. acupuncture and moxibustion therapy

regulates the movement of qi and blood by stimulating Ganshu, Spleen Shu, Sanyinjiao and other acupoints. The Gan Yu acupoint can soothe the liver and relieve depression, the Pi Yu acupoint can invigorate the spleen and dispel dampness, and the San Yin meridian can regulate the liver, spleen, and kidney. Acupuncture and moxibustion needs to be operated by a professional doctor, and treated 2-3 times a week, with electroacupuncture or moxibustion to enhance the effect. Some patients may experience local bruising, which is a normal reaction.

3. External application of traditional Chinese medicine

Use medicinal herbs such as Bai Zhi, Bai Zhu, and Bai Fu Ling to grind into powder, and mix with honey to apply to the face. Bai Zhi contains volatile oil that can promote blood circulation and lighten spots, Bai Zhu can invigorate the spleen and dry dampness, and Bai Fu Ling can promote diuresis and dampness. Before applying externally, clean the skin and avoid the eye area. Rinse off after 15-20 minutes each time. Individuals with sensitive skin should undergo small-scale testing first.

4. Dietary regulation

Eat more citrus fruits and green leafy vegetables rich in vitamin C, and avoid spicy and stimulating foods. Black foods such as black fungus and black sesame can help nourish the kidneys, while coix seed and adzuki beans can promote dampness and strengthen the spleen. Avoid consuming photosensitive foods such as celery and cilantro after exposure to sunlight.

5. Emotional regulation

Maintain emotional comfort and avoid long-term anxiety and depression. You can relieve stress and ensure sufficient sleep through soothing exercises such as Ba Duan Jin and Tai Chi. Patients with liver depression can cooperate with pressing the Taichong acupoint, kneading and pressing for 3-5 minutes in the morning and evening every day. Traditional Chinese medicine treatment for melasma should be persisted for 3-6 months, during which attention should be paid to sun protection, using physical sun protection measures such as wearing a wide brimmed hat. Avoiding the use of hormone containing skincare products, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and falling asleep before 11 pm at night can help detoxify the liver and gallbladder. If the plaque suddenly enlarges or darkens in color, timely follow-up should be conducted to rule out other skin diseases.