What are the facial manifestations of spleen deficiency in women?
Aug 11, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, when women experience spleen deficiency, their face may show various symptoms, such as a sallow complexion, swollen eyelids, pale lips, oily facial skin, and chloasma. If discomfort symptoms appear, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment at a regular hospital. Daily care should focus on regulating the spleen and stomach. In terms of diet, it is advisable to consume more foods that strengthen the spleen and replenish vital energy, such as pumpkin, red dates, and Euryale seeds, while avoiding excessive intake of raw and cold foods.
Generally, when women experience spleen deficiency, various facial manifestations may appear, such as a sallow complexion, swollen eyelids, pale lips, oily facial skin, and chloasma. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely diagnosis and treatment at a qualified hospital. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Sallow Complexion
Spleen deficiency may lead to insufficient production of qi and blood, which fails to adequately nourish the facial skin. This results in a sallow, dull complexion lacking luster and appearing pale. This internal dullness is difficult to mask even with skincare products.
2. Swollen Eyelids
The spleen governs the transformation and transportation of body fluids. When the spleen is weak, fluid metabolism becomes abnormal, leading to fluid accumulation within the body. The skin around the eyelids is thin, making it easier for fluid to accumulate, causing eyelid swelling—especially noticeable upon waking in the morning. Some individuals may also experience loose skin around the eyes.
3. Pale Lips
The spleen opens into the mouth and manifests its health in the lips. When the spleen is deficient, there may be insufficient qi and blood, resulting in inadequate nourishment for the lips. This causes the lips to appear pale and lacking in natural pinkness. It may also be accompanied by dry mouth and cracked corners of the mouth.
4. Oily Facial Skin
Spleen deficiency can impair the digestive and absorptive functions of the spleen and stomach, leading to internal accumulation of dampness. Prolonged stagnation of dampness may generate heat, which rises to the face, increasing sebum production and making the face appear oily and shiny. This condition also makes the skin more prone to acne and pimples.
5. Chloasma
Spleen deficiency can disrupt the smooth circulation of qi and blood, leaving facial skin inadequately nourished. Internally accumulated dampness may also impede the flow of qi and blood, causing pigmentation and the formation of chloasma on the face. These dark patches often appear on the cheekbones, forehead, and cheeks, and darken as the spleen deficiency worsens.
Daily care should focus on regulating the spleen and stomach. Diet-wise, it is beneficial to consume foods that strengthen the spleen and replenish qi, such as pumpkin, red dates, and water caltrop. Avoid excessive consumption of raw, cold, or greasy foods. Maintain a regular sleep schedule, avoid staying up late, and engage in moderate exercise to promote healthy spleen and stomach function.
