Can TCM help with ageing skin?

Physician Foo Shan Ju Ageing is a gradual and continuous natural process that begins as early as early adulthood. As we age, our organ functions start to gradually decline, and this includes our skin, which happens to be the body’s largest organ. Skin changes stand out as some of the most noticeable indicators of ageing. Typical signs of skin ageing encompass wrinkles or fine lines, sagging, the emergence of eye bags or dark under-eye circles, a lacklustre and uneven complexion, among others. In the ageing process, our outer skin layer becomes thinner, which can contribute to the development of eye bags. Furthermore, we experience a loss of fat and collagen in our skin, resulting in sagging and a paler appearance. Prolonged sun exposure over the years can increase the likelihood of pigmented spots like age spots or “liver spots” appearing on sun-exposed areas such as the forehead and cheekbones. Beyond natural ageing and sun exposure, lifestyle factors like diet, sleep, and stress can also lead to premature skin ageing. In TCM, premature skin ageing is affected by 2 main factors: Premature ageing of organs As we age, our organ function naturally declines, which also shows on our skin. Here are a few examples of how organ health can be linked to facial complexion. Dry skin is often associated with Lung Yin deficiency. This condition may also lead to other dry symptoms like dry eyes, a dry nose, and a dry throat. Dark under-eye bags or circles can be caused by Kidney Deficiency. Other accompanying symptoms may include frequent night urination and unexplained lower back pain, which tends to worsen with physical exhaustion. A dull or yellowish complexion may be linked to Spleen Qi deficiency. This condition is often accompanied by digestive symptoms such as bloating after eating, gassiness, soft or irregular stools, and fatigue. Sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles are typically caused by a combination of Lung Yin and Spleen Qi deficiency. These symptoms are often accompanied by digestive and dryness-related symptoms. External sensitivity to pollutants/environment As we age, our skin undergoes various changes, including thinning, dryness, reduced elasticity, and increased sensitivity to external stimuli. This sensitivity to external factors is often associated with Lung Qi deficiency, which is a natural part of the ageing process. Lung Qi deficiency may also be a natural body constitution (happens from birth), commonly seen in individuals with eczema, sinus issues, and childhood asthma. In TCM theory, our Lungs work closely with the skin to function as the “barrier” that protects us from external pathogens. As such, Lung Qi deficiency will result in the skin barrier weakening and becoming sensitive to external factors like heat, dust, pollen and more. Other symptoms of Lung Qi deficiency include immune-related symptoms such as being prone to falling ill or having long colds. TCM believes the way to prevent premature skin ageing and achieve a healthy, glowing complexion starts from within. Nourishing Qi and Blood ensures sufficient nourishment for our organs to function healthily, while maintaining a healthy Yin and Yang balance can help to prevent our body’s temperature and energies from fluctuating to maintain a stress-free environment for our skin to flourish. Promoting youthful skin with TCM 1. Wrinkles and Fine lines Wrinkles and fine lines can be caused by sun damage, skin thinning, and collagen loss. Collagen gives our skin structure and enables our skin to stretch and move easily. Collagen loss causes elastosis – the reduction of our skin’s strength and elasticity. Elastosis is more noticeable in sun-exposed areas and causes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. In TCM, wrinkles and fine lines are related to Lung Yin deficiency and Spleen Qi deficiency. TCM treatments for wrinkles and fine lines Replenishing collagen through collagen supplements or facial treatments are popular and effective ways to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. However, ensuring that our Lung Yin and Spleen Qi are taken care of is also crucial. In the clinic, we usually achieve this via herbal medication. Herbs such as Sha Shen, Mai Dong, Pi Pa Ye are commonly used to nourish Lung Yin and can help to alleviate dryness-related symptoms like dry mouth, nose, eyes, and throat. For patients who suffer from Spleen Qi deficiency, herbs like Huang Qi, Bai Zhu, and Dang Shen can help to improve complexion while also giving you a digestion and energy boost. Apart from herbs, acupuncture is also becoming an increasingly popular way of treating wrinkles and fine lines naturally. Insertion of fine needles along acupoints in the face stimulates local blood circulation and collagen production, which boosts elasticity and reduces appearance of wrinkles. Despite the use of needles, facial acupuncture is not as painful as many might think as the needles used are extremely small and fine. Tech-enhanced Therapies for wrinkles and fine lines i. Electro-Lymphatic Therapy (ELT) For individuals who are scared of needles, the Electro-Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (ELT) is a painless and non-invasive option to consider. ELT promotes healthy lymphatic drainage in the face and the body, which boosts complexion by ensuring clearance of toxins from the face and neck area. Toxin build-up in the lymphatic system can also cause poor blood circulation to the face and result in many skin issues over time. ELT is conducted using an FDA-approved machine and feels like a gentle, relaxing massage. The recommended frequency for ELT is once a week and lasts 60-80 minutes each time. People with tense neck and shoulders may experience immediate relief and lightness after one session and an improvement in skin complexion over a few sessions. ii. Cell Pro Therapy (CPT) The Cell Pro Therapy (CPT) is another painless and non-invasive alternative and is usually paired with an ELT session. Negative ions are also known as antioxidants and help to prevent premature cell ageing by scavenging free radicals and protect our cells from oxidative stress. Through skin surface area contact, the body absorbs a large amount of negative ions over a treatment duration of 20 minutes. After detox via the ELT, Negative