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Facial Acupressure for Skin Tightening: Best Points to Try Before an Important Meeting
Facial acupressure is a natural and non-invasive method that helps promote skin tightening and rejuvenation. By applying gentle pressure to specific points on the face, you can stimulate blood flow, enhance skin elasticity, and achieve a more youthful appearance. We consulted Ms. Mai Sogawa, a licensed TCM therapist, to identify the best facial acupressure points that can be used in the morning to prepare your skin for an important meeting or event. Here are six facial acupressure points that can help tighten and revitalize your skin, leaving you looking your best.
How Does Facial Acupressure Tighten the Skin?
Facial acupressure is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It involves activating specific meridian points on the face to release tension, improve circulation, and enhance the production of collagen. When these points are stimulated regularly, they can support firmer, more toned skin. In particular, applying acupressure in the morning can help reduce puffiness and give your face a refreshed and tightened look, which is ideal before a big meeting or event.
Six Facial Acupressure Points for Skin Tightening
1. Sibai (ST-2)
- Location: Directly below the pupil, in the depression of the cheekbone.
- Benefits: Activating Sibai helps increase blood flow and oxygen to the facial tissues, reducing sagging and promoting a more lifted appearance.
- How to Apply: Use your index fingers to gently press on both sides for 1–2 minutes. Combine with upward strokes for an added lifting effect.
2. Xiaguan (ST-7)
- Location: Just below the cheekbone, in front of the ear.
- Benefits: This point is effective for relieving tension in the jaw and enhancing skin elasticity. By reducing tension in this area, the overall facial contours can appear more defined.
- How to Apply: Apply gentle pressure using your thumbs, pressing in small circular motions for 1–2 minutes on each side.
3. Yingxiang (LI-20)
- Location: On either side of the nostrils, in the nasolabial fold.
- Benefits: Stimulating Yingxiang helps to smooth out laugh lines, reduce puffiness around the eyes, and promote a more youthful complexion.
- How to Apply: Use your middle fingers to gently press the points, applying a lifting motion upwards towards the cheekbones. Repeat for 1–2 minutes.
4. Chengjiang (Ren-24)
- Location: In the center of the groove between the lower lip and the chin.
- Benefits: This point is excellent for reducing the appearance of fine lines around the mouth and enhancing the firmness of the jawline.
- How to Apply: Press the point using your index fingers, holding for 1 minute while breathing deeply. Follow with light tapping around the area.
5. Dicang (ST-4)
- Location: Approximately 0.4 inches to the side of the corner of the mouth.
- Benefits: Dicang can help lift the corners of the mouth, reduce sagging, and provide a natural facelift effect.
- How to Apply: Use your thumbs to apply gentle pressure, moving in circular motions for 1 minute on each side.
6. Juliao (ST-3)
- Location: Directly below the pupil, on the side of the nostril.
- Benefits: Juliao is known for its ability to reduce puffiness and promote a youthful glow. It helps firm up the cheeks, making the skin appear tighter and smoother.
- How to Apply: Use your middle fingers to press the points with moderate pressure for 1 minute. Combine with upward strokes for better results.
Tips for Using Facial Acupressure Effectively
To maximize the benefits of these acupressure points, it’s essential to follow a few best practices:
- Start with Clean Skin: Always begin your facial acupressure routine with a clean face and washed hands to prevent irritation.
- Apply Moisturizer or Facial Oil: Using a hydrating moisturizer or facial oil can reduce friction and allow your fingers to glide smoothly over the skin.
- Use Gentle Pressure: The skin on your face is delicate, so apply only light to moderate pressure. If you feel any discomfort, ease off and reduce the intensity.
- Incorporate Deep Breathing: Combine your acupressure routine with deep breathing exercises to further promote relaxation and boost circulation.
- Be Consistent: For the best results, practice facial acupressure daily or at least several times a week. Regular stimulation of these points can lead to long-term improvements in skin firmness and texture.
Benefits of Facial Acupressure for Skin Tightening
Facial acupressure offers numerous benefits beyond skin tightening. By incorporating this practice into your skincare routine, you may experience:
- Improved Blood Circulation: Stimulating acupressure points increases blood flow to the face, enhancing the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the skin cells.
- Reduced Puffiness: Applying gentle pressure to specific points can help drain lymphatic fluid and reduce facial puffiness, giving you a refreshed look.
- Relief from Tension: Facial acupressure relieves tension in the facial muscles, which can help prevent fine lines and wrinkles caused by stress.
- Enhanced Product Absorption: Performing acupressure after applying serums or moisturizers can help the skin absorb these products more effectively.
Final Thoughts
Facial acupressure is a simple yet effective way to naturally tighten and rejuvenate your skin, especially when practiced consistently. By focusing on these six points in the morning, you can achieve a refreshed, lifted, and radiant appearance—perfect for looking your best before an important meeting or event. If you’re new to acupressure or need guidance on applying these techniques, consider consulting a licensed practitioner like Ms. Mai Sogawa, who specializes in TCM therapies and holistic skincare practices.
Implement these acupressure techniques into your skincare routine to enjoy a natural boost in skin firmness and elasticity!
