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The eruption of smallpox (Dòuzhěn) is auspicious when sparse, as sparsity indicates less pathogenic toxin; it is inauspicious when dense, as density indicates excessive pathogenic toxin. However, the distinction between sparsity and density has specific preferences and taboos. For instance, the head and face should be sparse, because the head is the "chief" and must not be invaded. The neck should be sparse, because this area is the passage for Qi mechanism (Guǎnyuè) and must not be blocked. The chest should be sparse, because this is the residence of the Mind (Shénmíng) and the location of the Heart and Lungs, which must not be touched. The abdomen and back should be sparse, because these are the areas where the Back-Shu and Front-Mu points of the Zang-Fu organs are attached. As for the hands and feet, density is not taboo.

What is called "sparse" does not merely mean few in number; even if distributed evenly, distinct, and clean with uniform size, it can still be termed sparse. Therefore, regardless of density, what is valued is being distinct and clear, with granules that are sharp, round, tight, and solid; even if dense, it is no hindrance. What is called "dense" does not necessarily mean numerous; even if clustered and adhering, layer upon layer, blurred into masses without distinct granules, even if only in a few places, it can be termed dense. Furthermore, at the initial stage of eruption, if only a few red spots appear on the surface but the internal heat symptoms subside immediately, this can be considered sparse. If, however, although the spots are few, the high fever persists, lips and mouth are dry and cracked, urination and defecation are obstructed, and there is restlessness and irritability with no reduction in other symptoms, this is because the pathogenic toxin is excessive and stagnated internally, unable to be expelled. Consequently, it will inevitably become denser day by day. Thus, although few in number initially, one cannot hastily conclude it is sparse.

Things that are moist are nourished and lustrous, while those that are dry are withered and arid. However, the distinction between flourishing (Róng) and withering (Kū) of the eruption is primarily governed by Blood. Blood serves to nourish Yin and Yang, moisten skin and hair, and flow through joints. If the eruption is originally sparse, Blood need not be abundant to naturally suffice. Only when the eruption is originally dense is it crucial that Blood is sufficient, allowing the meridians to circulate freely, permeating the muscle tissue, filling the skin and hair, irrigating and moistening, promoting growth and nourishment, resulting naturally in bright color and vitality, with red and active bases. If Blood is insufficient, the meridians become congested and stagnant, the pustule bases become empty, leading to blackness, dryness, lack of brightness, withering, lack of moisture, and wrinkling or cracking of the skin. Thus, the *Classic* states: All cases of astringency, withering, dryness, stiffness, and wrinkling belong to Dryness. This is due to the person's chronic Blood deficiency; when scorched by toxic fire, it may additionally undergo transformations of Dryness, causing Essence and Blood to become further depleted. Treatment should employ methods to invigorate Blood and cool Ying (Nutrient), dissipate heat and detoxify, nourish Metal (Lung) and moisten Dryness, so that the desiccation can gradually be reversed.