Beauty and Cosmetics in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Exploring the Ancient Wisdom of TCM for Health and Beauty

What exactly is TCM beauty? Is it a mysterious palace secret, or the ancient wisdom of daily life?
We believe that true beauty radiates from inner health and harmony.

In this special exhibition, “Beauty and Cosmetics in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Exploring the Ancient Wisdom of TCM for Health and Beauty,” you are invited to explore how Traditional Chinese Medicine weaves together aesthetics, medicine, and culture. From the wisdom of the ancients to modern innovations, discover the timeless secrets of beauty that have transcended thousands of years.

✨ Zone 1 · The Beauty of Integrated Health: Unity of Body and Spirit ✨

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) emphasizes that “the body reflects yin, while the spirit embodies yang.” True health is a state of harmony between body and mind.

Curious to know whether your physical and mental states are in balance? In Zone 1, you can assess your well-being through TCM’s aesthetic standards—from physique and facial features to mental vitality—and uncover the secrets to holistic health.

✨ Zone 2 · Makeup Through History — The Evolution of Beauty in TCM ✨

From the earliest use of powders and rouge in ancient times, to the medical foundations laid in the Qin and Han dynasties, and the flourishing makeup culture of the Wei, Jin, Northern and Southern Dynasties through the Sui and Tang, TCM beauty evolved from imperial secrets to common practice.

Travel through time and peek into the cosmetic boxes of ancient noblewomen—discover Tang dynasty trends like the “wine-blush” makeup and decorative huadian forehead flowers, and the Song dynasty’s elegant return to natural, understated beauty.

✨ Zone 3 · Secrets of Imperial Beauty Formulas ✨
How did ancient empresses and consorts maintain their beauty?

This section reveals exclusive palace beauty recipes—from Lady Zhang Lihua’s skincare secrets, beloved by the Southern Tang ruler Li Yu, to Yang Guifei’s whitening regimen, and Empress Dowager Cixi’s favored beauty formulas. Step inside to uncover these legendary royal beauty secrets!

✨ Zone 4 · Modern TCM Beauty: Integrating Tradition and Innovation ✨
How does ancient wisdom meet modern science?

Explore the diverse modern applications of TCM beauty—from facial acupuncture and herbal skincare to beauty-enhancing medicinal cuisine. Discover how traditional herbal wisdom continues to thrive in today’s world and is closer to your daily life than you might think!

Exhibition Dates: October 27, 2025 – May 22, 2026
Venue: Museum of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, 1F Lobby (No. 91, Xueshi Rd., North District, Taichung City)