Can deficiency of qi and blood lead to melasma?

Dec 08, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

Melasma is also associated with various factors such as endocrine disorders, sun exposure, genetics, and mental stress. If melasma appears without other typical signs of qi and blood deficiency, it may not be caused by a single factor; the underlying cause should be identified by considering lifestyle habits and overall health. In daily life, one can improve qi and blood through dietary regulation, consuming more foods such as red dates, longan, and Chinese yam.

Generally, qi and blood deficiency may lead to the development of melasma; however, the causes of melasma are complex and not solely due to insufficient qi and blood. If concerned, it is recommended to evaluate based on an overall assessment of one's health. Detailed analysis is as follows:

In traditional Chinese medicine, qi and blood are considered fundamental for nourishing the skin. Deficiency in qi and blood leads to poor nourishment of facial skin and impaired elimination of metabolic waste, which may result in pigmentation and the formation of melasma. This condition is often accompanied by symptoms such as dull complexion, dizziness, fatigue, and menstrual irregularities.

Melasma is also associated with various other factors including hormonal imbalances, sun exposure, genetics, and mental stress. If melasma appears without other typical signs of qi and blood deficiency, it may not be caused by a single factor. The underlying cause should be identified by considering lifestyle habits and overall physical condition.

Daily management may include dietary adjustments to replenish qi and blood, such as consuming more red dates, longan, Chinese yam, and similar foods; practicing proper sun protection to avoid UV stimulation; maintaining regular sleep patterns; and reducing psychological stress. When melasma is prominent or accompanied by discomfort, it is advisable to seek professional guidance to determine the specific cause and receive targeted treatment.

View All

What are the differences between melasma and freckles?

Under normal circumstances, melasma and freckles differ significantly in terms of etiology, affected body sites, lesion morphology, age of onset, and triggering factors. Melasma is primarily associated with endocrine disorders, ultraviolet radiation, genetic factors, and mental stress, and results from increased activity of melanocytes leading to skin pigmentation; freckles, on the other hand, are mostly caused by autosomal dominant inheritance.

View Full Answer

What is the most effective inhibitor of tyrosinase?

Inhibition of tyrosinase activity can generally be achieved through pharmacological interventions, herbal extracts, antioxidant-rich foods, vitamin supplements, and laser therapy. Hydroquinone cream is a commonly used clinical tyrosinase inhibitor that reduces melanin production by suppressing melanocyte metabolism, and is frequently employed in the treatment of melasma. Tretinoin cream can improve pigmentation and is particularly effective for age spots.

View Full Answer

What causes dark spots on the face of a 40-year-old man, and what should be done about it?

Dark spots on the face of a 40-year-old man may be caused by ultraviolet (UV) exposure, aging, melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, seborrheic keratosis, or other factors. These can be improved through sun protection, lifestyle adjustments, and medical treatments. If the dark spots rapidly increase in size, have irregular shapes, or are accompanied by itching or pain, prompt medical attention is necessary. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to UV stimulation of melanocytes in the skin.

View Full Answer

What are the side effects of long-term use of tranexamic acid for melasma treatment?

In general, long-term use of tranexamic acid for skin whitening may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, affect the blood system, cause dry or itchy skin, result in abnormal liver function, and cause menstrual disorders. Tranexamic acid may irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, and prolonged use can easily cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Some individuals may also experience loss of appetite, affecting normal digestive function.