TCM Aesthetics 101: Start with Your Body Constitution

SAMPLE content — pending official materials from the Association. This is a layout demonstration article; the official article is pending contributions from Association members.

What is TCM aesthetics?

TCM aesthetics applies Chinese medicine theory — herbal medicine, acupuncture, tuina massage and lifestyle adjustment — to improve skin- and appearance-related concerns from a whole-person perspective. It is inherently individualised: the same skin presentation may call for different care in people of different constitutions.

Constitution care basics (sample highlights)

• A practitioner assesses you through the four examinations (inspection, listening and smelling, enquiry, and pulse-taking), covering complexion, tongue, pulse and lifestyle
• Commonly discussed constitution patterns include qi deficiency, blood stasis and damp-heat; constitution assessment should be carried out by a registered Chinese medicine practitioner, not self-diagnosed from online quizzes
• A care plan may combine herbal medicine, acupuncture and advice on diet and daily routine, and usually takes time to show change

How to prepare for a consultation

• Note down what you want to improve and how long it has been present
• List the medicines and supplements you are currently taking (both Chinese and Western)
• If you are also under Western medical care, tell your Chinese medicine practitioner so that care can be coordinated

A gentle reminder

TCM aesthetics is not a byword for "no side effects" — herbal medicine and acupuncture have their own indications and precautions. See a Hong Kong registered Chinese medicine practitioner; never self-prescribe herbs or accept needling from unlicensed providers.