Acne - Phlegm-Dampness Congealing Pattern
TCM differentiation and treatment for acne with
Acne · Phlegm-Dampness Congealing Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Face/Skin
Pattern Overview
Phlegm-Dampness Congealing is a pattern in acne, characterized by
**nodular cystic acne, sebaceous gland duct hyperkeratosis, deep
inflammation, fibrosis, and persistent lesions**. The core pathogenesis
is Phlegm-Dampness congealing in the skin, causing sebaceous gland
duct hyperkeratosis, deep inflammation, and nodule formation.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
|---|
| Primary Symptoms |
|---|
fibrosis, scarring |
| Associated Symptoms |
|---|
loose stools |
| Tongue and Pulse |
|---|
coating, slippery pulse |
| Pathogenesis | Phlegm-Dampness congealing in the skin |
|---|
| Etiology |
|---|
Phlegm-Dampness, inadequate treatment |
Acupuncture Point Prescription
| Point | Location | Function |
|---|
| Fenglong (ST40) |
|---|
to the tibial crest | Transforms Phlegm and Dampness |
| Yinlingquan (SP9) | Below the medial condyle of the tibia |
|---|
Transforms Dampness and promotes diuresis |
| Sanyinjiao (SP6) | 3 cun above the medial malleolus |
|---|
Dampness and nourishes Blood |
| Zhongwan (RN12) | 4 cun above the umbilicus |
|---|
Stomach; harmonizes the Stomach |
| Hegu (LI4) |
|---|
metacarpals | Regulates Qi and promotes circulation |
Clinical Recommendation: Filament needle, even method; may combine
with cupping to transform Phlegm and drain Dampness.
Herbal Formula
Base Formula: Er Chen Tang (二陈汤) + Hai Zao Yu Hu Tang
(海藻玉壶汤)
Composition:
Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi), Pinellia (Ban Xia), Poria (Fu Ling), Sargassum
(Hai Zao), Kelp (Kun Bu), Fritillaria (Zhe Bei Mu), Forsythia (Lian
Qiao), Licorice (Gan Cao)
Action: Transforms Phlegm, softens nodules, and resolves masses.
Modifications
| Associated Symptoms | Additions/Subtractions |
|---|
| Nodular lesions |
|---|
masses |
| Fibrosis | Add San Leng, E Zhu to break up stasis |
|---|
| Scarring | Add Dan Shen, Ji Xue Teng to improve microcirculation |
|---|
| Heavy sensation | Add Huo Xiang, Pei Lan to transform Dampness |
|---|
Western Mechanism Reference
Nodular cystic acne with sebaceous gland duct hyperkeratosis, deep
inflammation, and fibrosis. Phlegm-Dampness Congealing corresponds to
nodular cystic acne, where sebaceous gland duct hyperkeratosis and deep
inflammation contribute to persistent nodular lesions and fibrosis.
References
1. Dermatology of TCM - Acne with Phlegm-Dampness Congealing.
2. Xiong Jibai: Phlegm-Dampness uses Er Chen Tang.
3. WHO. (2023). Skin health. World Health Organization.
Explore More
- Find your solution at MendGod.com –
Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for skin health.
- Deepen your knowledge at TcmCIO.com – Full
research papers and clinical case studies on TCM dermatology.
Related TCM Patterns for Acne
Last reviewed: June 2026 | Lead author: Dr. Li Wei, DACM | Content updated: Monthly
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any treatment.