Acupressure Techniques to Reduce Dark Circles for a Fresh Look at Work

Dark circles are a common issue that many people face, especially when work and daily life leave us feeling tired and stressed. If you’re looking for a natural, non-invasive way to reduce dark circles, facial acupressure might be the solution. This technique, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), can improve blood circulation and relieve tension, giving you a refreshed and youthful appearance. We consulted TCM Therapist Ms. Mai Sogawa from Japan for expert advice. Here are six acupressure techniques you can try in the morning to brighten your eyes and reduce dark circles before heading to work. You can learn more about Ms. Sogawa here.

Benefits of Facial Acupressure for Dark Circles

Before diving into the specific acupressure points, it’s helpful to understand why facial acupressure works so well for dark circles. Poor blood circulation, stress, and lack of sleep are major contributors to dark circles. By stimulating key points on your face and body, acupressure improves blood flow, relieves tension, and promotes relaxation. Over time, this can reduce the appearance of dark circles and give your face a fresher, more youthful look.

Here are the six acupressure points recommended by Ms. Sogawa.

ST-1 (Cheng Qi) – Beneath the Eyes

One of the most effective points for reducing dark circles is located directly below the eyes. The ST-1 point, found just beneath the center of the eye socket, can help stimulate blood circulation around the eyes and reduce puffiness and discoloration.

How to use it:

• Using your index fingers, gently press on the area beneath your eyes.
• Apply gentle pressure for about 1 minute, then release.
• Repeat this technique on both eyes.

ST-2 (Si Bai) – Lower Eye Socket

Another important acupressure point for dark circles is ST-2, located slightly lower than ST-1, in the depression beneath the lower eye socket. This point helps with improving blood flow to the face and alleviates tension around the eyes, making it particularly useful for reducing puffiness and shadows.

How to use it:

• Use your index fingers to locate the point beneath your eyes, in line with your pupils.
• Apply steady pressure for 1-2 minutes while taking deep breaths.
• Perform this technique each morning to reduce dark circles and brighten your complexion.

SP-6 (San Yin Jiao) – Inner Calf

Though located on your leg, the SP-6 point is well-known for its ability to improve blood circulation and balance the body’s internal functions. Stimulating this point can help address the underlying causes of dark circles, such as stress, poor digestion, or lack of sleep.

How to use it:

• Find this point on your inner calf, about three fingers’ width above the ankle bone.
• Press firmly with your thumb for about 1 minute, releasing slowly.
• Repeat this on both legs in the morning for the best results.

GB-1 (Tong Zi Liao) – Outer Eye Corner

The GB-1 point is located at the outer corners of your eyes, right where the eye socket meets the temple. This point is excellent for relieving eye strain, which can contribute to dark circles. By massaging this area, you can promote relaxation and reduce the tired look around your eyes.

How to use it:

• Using your index or middle fingers, gently press and massage the outer corners of your eyes.
• Apply circular pressure for about 1-2 minutes.
• This can be done in combination with other facial acupressure points to enhance the overall effect.

GV-20 (Bai Hui) – Top of the Head

The GV-20 point is located at the top of the head, directly in line with the ears. This acupressure point is commonly used to improve mental clarity and reduce stress, which can have a positive effect on the overall appearance of your face, including dark circles.

How to use it:

• Use your fingertips to press gently on the top of your head.
• Massage the area in circular motions for about 1-2 minutes.
• This point can also help relieve headaches and tension.

LI-4 (He Gu) – Hand Point

The LI-4 point, located on the hand between the thumb and index finger, is a versatile acupressure point known to reduce facial puffiness and improve circulation. This makes it a great addition to your routine for targeting dark circles. Stimulating this point helps balance the body’s energy, reducing stress and tension, both of which are linked to the appearance of dark circles.

How to use it:

• Use your thumb and index finger from your other hand to apply firm pressure to the webbed area between your thumb and index finger.
• Hold this pressure for 1-2 minutes.
• Repeat on both hands to boost your energy and circulation.

Incorporating Acupressure into Your Morning Routine

These six acupressure points can easily be incorporated into your morning routine to help reduce dark circles and improve your overall appearance. You don’t need to spend a lot of time on each point—just a few minutes of gentle pressure or massage can make a big difference. Regular use of acupressure may lead to long-term improvements in skin tone, circulation, and the reduction of dark circles.

For best results, combine facial acupressure with other healthy habits:

• Stay hydrated to maintain skin elasticity.
• Get enough sleep to allow your body to repair itself.
• Use a cold compress on your eyes to reduce puffiness before acupressure.

By following these tips and using acupressure regularly, you can achieve a refreshed and energized look, perfect for starting your workday.

This article has drawn on insights from Ms. Mai Sogawa, an expert in Traditional Chinese Medicine. For more information about Ms. Sogawa, visit her bio.