Key Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Key Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine

The benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine are well documented. TCM outlines the relationship between the five elements—wood, fire, earth, metal, and water—and the life force known as “qi.” Understanding this approach helps the esthetician identify their client’s innate nature and devise a treatment plan that addresses their skin concerns. 

What is TCM?

In this course, students will learn the differences between the TCM and the western approaches to dermatological conditions, how herbal medicines are formulated, and what can be expected when working with a TCM provider.

After completing this activity, participants will be able to:

1. Identify how TCM differs from the Western Medicine approach to dermatological issues
2. Review who can use and at what stage of a dermatological condition clients can seek TCM
3. Recall the most effective method for treating dermatological issues through TCM
4. Identify what patients can expect when they see a TCM practitioner

Face Mapping

This lesson covers the Traditional Chinese Medicine method of face mapping, a method identifying the health of various TCM organs by analyzing the areas of the face to which they are linked. Using that knowledge, estheticians are able to implement different treatment protocols

After completing this activity, participants will be able to:

1. Develop a general understanding of pathology from an East Asian medical perspective
2. Discuss how to identify imbalances in the body’s systems by analyzing the face
3. Summarize how to utilize this knowledge within the scope of your practice 

TCM Modalities for Estheticians

Learn about various Traditional Chinese Medicine tools and movements known to sculpt the face. This course teaches the theory and practice of using TCM approaches to address skin issues. It includes the benefits, precautions, and hands-on techniques for treating the face, head, chest, and neck.

After completing this activity, participants will be able to:

1. Recall the various tools used in traditional Chinese medicine for dermatology and skin care, and when to use them
2. Recall how to provide a gua sha facial massage
3. Define facial cupping
4. Summarize how to use herbal poultices in a facial massage
5. Describe a pressure point massage technique
6. Describe how to properly use facial rollers

TCM Dietary Therapy

In this lesson, students will better understand the role dietary therapy plays in the TCM approach to health, wellness, and skin conditions.

After completing this activity, participants will be able to:

1. Recall the historical evolution of TCM dietary therapy
2. Contrast the TCM perspective on digestion with the western view and identify its implications on daily eating
3. Summarize a different set of considerations when choosing foods for daily living and health or skin issues.