Melasma and Pigmented Spots — The Principles of Korean Medicine Skin Brightening
Table of Contents
Why does melasma occur?
Melasma is a pigmentary disorder in which melanin pigment becomes excessively deposited due to various causes such as ultraviolet rays, hormonal changes, and stress. It tends to occur during periods of significant hormonal fluctuation, such as pregnancy, oral contraceptive use, and menopause, and is worsened by ultraviolet rays. Korean medicine views melasma as related to liver qi stagnation (肝氣鬱結) and blood stasis (瘀血).
Principles of Korean medicine skin brightening
Korean medicine skin brightening treatment does not simply destroy pigment; it focuses on improving the fundamental causes that lead to excessive pigment production.
- Soothing the liver and resolving stagnation (疏肝解鬱): Restores liver function to balance hormones and suppress pigment formation
- Activating blood and resolving stasis (活血化瘀): Improves microcirculation in the skin to promote elimination of deposited pigment
- Nourishing blood and moistening the skin (補血潤膚): Supplies nutrients and moisture to support healthy skin regeneration
Specific treatment methods
- Herbal medicine: Brightening prescriptions including Dang-gui, Cheon-gung, and Baek-ji improve skin condition from within
- Cosmetic acupuncture: Improves blood flow at sites of pigment deposition to promote melanin elimination
- Korean medicine masks: Masks made with mung bean, Baek-bok-ryeong, and pearl powder provide both brightening and moisturizing effects
- Pharmacopuncture: Compounds with brightening effects are injected directly into acupoints
Daily pigment care
Whatever treatment you choose, sun protection is the most important. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, and use a hat or parasol when outdoors. Adequate sleep and stress management are also keys to preventing recurrence of pigmentary disorders. Korean medicine skin brightening works gradually but fundamentally, rather than producing the immediate effect of a laser.