Introduction
Endless skin concerns like acne, dryness, and inflammation. You may have tried skincare products and dermatological procedures, but sometimes they don’t provide fundamental solutions. Traditional Chinese medicine views skin problems as stemming from insufficient blood circulation in the body, hormone imbalance, and toxin accumulation. Without invasive procedures, investing just 5 minutes daily to stimulate acupoints can improve your constitution from the foundation.
5 Acupoints Effective for Skin Issues
1. Sanyinjiao (SP6)
Location: About 9cm above the medial malleolus (inner ankle bone), on the posterior medial surface of the tibia. Following the inner edge of the tibia upward, you’ll find a slight depression where approximately three finger widths enter.
Effects: It balances hormones to alleviate skin troubles before menstruation, and promotes whole-body blood circulation to enhance skin regeneration. As a representative acupoint for women’s health, it’s effective not only for skin but also for constitutional improvement.
Acupressure Method: Sit on the floor with your legs bent, and repeatedly press firmly with your thumb for 3-5 seconds at a time. Apply moderate pressure until you feel a slight tenderness. Perform 2-3 times daily, ideally in the morning and evening.
2. Quchi (LI11)
Location: When the elbow is bent, it’s located at the outermost end of the elbow crease. When the arm is extended, you can find it on the outer end of the creases above the inner aspect of the elbow.
Effects: It improves large intestine function to expel internal heat and toxins while strengthening immunity. It’s particularly effective for inflammatory skin conditions, acne, and calming red skin.
Acupressure Method: Using the opposite thumb, slowly press in circular motions for 1 minute. Consistent stimulation until you feel warmth will speed up the skin-calming effects.
3. Weizhong (BL40)
Location: When the knee is bent, it’s located in the center of the popliteal crease on the back of the knee. It’s the exact midpoint between the left and right tendons.
Effects: It’s one of the most powerful acupoints for promoting whole-body blood circulation. It reduces internal heat, expels toxins, and improves overall skin health.
Acupressure Method: In a seated position, overlap your thumbs and repeatedly press gently for about 1 minute. A slight tender sensation indicates the appropriate pressure.
4. Jianyu (LI15)
Location: With the arm raised 90 degrees to the side, it’s the depression in front of the anterior deltoid. It’s the point that relaxes when you shrug your shoulder.
Effects: It activates upper body blood circulation to improve facial skin tone and enhance skin elasticity. It also improves respiratory health, helping you regain comprehensive skin radiance.
Acupressure Method: Gently tap with your fingers or press gently with your thumb in a semicircular motion. Perform 1-2 times daily, with concentrated stimulation in the evening for best results.
5. Xuehai (SP10)
Location: About 6cm (two finger widths) above the superomedial border of the patella, at the bulging point of the inner thigh muscle. Following the inner knee line upward makes it easy to locate.
Effects: It generates blood and promotes circulation, effectively improving dull skin and wrinkles caused by blood deficiency. It also helps resolve skin troubles caused by hormone imbalance.
Acupressure Method: Sit on the floor with your legs extended, and repeat pressing with your thumb for 3-5 seconds, 10-15 times. The effects double if you apply warm heat with a heat pack before acupressure.
5-Minute Self-Care Routine
Morning 2-Minute Routine (Improving Skin Clarity): SP6 (1 minute) → SP10 (1 minute). Promote blood circulation before heading out to brighten your complexion.
Evening 3-Minute Routine (Promoting Skin Regeneration): LI11 (1 minute) → BL40 (1 minute) → LI15 (1 minute). Expel toxins accumulated throughout the day and support skin regeneration.
2-3 Times Weekly Intensive Routine (Comprehensive Improvement): Stimulate SP6 → LI11 → BL40 → LI15 → SP10 in order, each for 1 minute. Practicing on Sunday evenings or when your skin is troubled will show quick improvement.
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