Clear Skin and Balance Hormones Naturally with the SP6 Acupressure Point for Hormonal Acne

If you’re dealing with hormonal acne and searching for natural ways to achieve clearer skin, acupressure may offer relief. The SP6 acupressure point, also known as the Sanyinjiao point, has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries to help balance hormones and reduce acne breakouts. We consulted Ms. Mai Sogawa, a TCM therapist, to get practical advice on using SP6 effectively at home. Discover how activating this point, along with the LI-4 point, can support hormonal health and improve your skin’s appearance. You can read more about Ms. Mai’s insights and experience here.

If you’re new to acupressure, take a look at our comprehensive guide on acupressure to understand its benefits and learn helpful techniques.

What Is the SP6 Acupressure Point and Where Is It Located?

The SP6, or Sanyinjiao, point is located on the inner leg, about four finger-widths above the ankle bone. Known for influencing three meridians (Spleen, Liver, and Kidney), this point is commonly used to balance hormones, improve menstrual health, and address stress—all factors that can impact skin health.

Benefits of SP6 Acupressure for Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne is often caused by fluctuations in hormones, stress, or imbalances in bodily systems. Stimulating SP6 can help address these underlying causes in several ways:

• Balances Hormones: The SP6 point supports the endocrine system, helping regulate hormone levels and address hormonal triggers for acne.
• Improves Blood Flow: Activating SP6 enhances circulation, which helps supply skin cells with oxygen and nutrients, while aiding in toxin removal.
• Reduces Stress and Calms the Mind: This acupressure point has a calming effect that can reduce stress-induced breakouts.
• Supports Liver Health: The liver plays an essential role in detoxifying the body, and SP6 stimulation helps promote optimal liver function, reducing skin inflammation and acne flare-ups.

How to Use the SP6 Acupressure Point for Clearer Skin at Home

Ms. Mai Sogawa recommends a straightforward routine to help you use SP6 at home:

1. Locate the SP6 Point: SP6 is situated on your inner leg, about four finger-widths above your ankle bone.
2. Apply Pressure: With your thumb or forefinger, gently press on the point. The pressure should be firm but not painful.
3. Hold and Release: Press for about 5 seconds, then release. Repeat this 2-3 times in a session.
4. Add Warmth for Enhanced Results: Warming SP6 with a hot towel, adhesive moxa, or a foot bath can further stimulate the point, improve blood circulation, and enhance relaxation.

By practicing SP6 acupressure daily, you may notice improvements in your skin’s clarity and overall hormone health.

Combining SP6 with LI-4 Acupressure for Hormonal Acne Relief

Adding the LI-4 (Hegu) point to your routine can amplify the benefits of SP6 for hormonal acne. Located between the thumb and index finger, LI-4 is renowned for its ability to improve circulation, relieve inflammation, and reduce facial skin issues like acne.

Why LI-4 Enhances SP6 Acupressure for Skin Health

The LI-4 point plays an important role in supporting clear skin and balancing hormones. Here’s why combining LI-4 with SP6 is beneficial:

• Improves Circulation: LI-4 enhances blood flow to the face, helping to supply skin cells with nutrients and removing toxins that can lead to acne.
• Reduces Inflammation and Swelling: LI-4 is known for alleviating inflammation and pain, which can be helpful for acne-prone skin.
• Supports Detoxification: Stimulating LI-4 promotes the body’s natural detox processes, helping to remove toxins that may trigger breakouts.
• Calms Emotions and Relieves Stress: LI-4 also supports emotional balance and can alleviate stress, a common contributor to hormonal acne.

How to Use the LI-4 Acupressure Point

To activate LI-4 effectively, follow these steps:

1. Find the LI-4 Point: It’s located on the back of your hand, between the thumb and index finger, at the highest point of the muscle when you press your thumb and index finger together.
2. Apply Firm Pressure: Using your opposite thumb, press down on the LI-4 point with a steady, firm pressure.
3. Hold for 1-2 Minutes: Maintain this pressure for 1-2 minutes, breathing deeply to promote relaxation.
4. Repeat Daily: Practice this acupressure technique daily, especially in combination with SP6, to support clearer skin, stress relief, and hormone balance.

Benefits of Adding Abdominal Breathing for Hormonal Balance

Alongside acupressure, breathing techniques like abdominal breathing can help regulate the autonomic nervous system and support hormonal balance. Ms. Mai suggests incorporating abdominal breathing with your acupressure routine to maximize results. Here’s how to practice abdominal breathing:

1. Sit or lie comfortably, placing a hand on your abdomen.
2. Breathe in deeply through your nose, allowing your abdomen to expand.
3. Slowly exhale through your mouth, feeling your abdomen contract.
4. Practice for several minutes each day to help relax your body, reduce stress, and balance hormone levels.

Best Practices for Using SP6 and LI-4 Acupressure Points Regularly

To make acupressure a routine part of your wellness plan, consider the following tips:

• Practice Daily for Lasting Benefits: Aim to stimulate SP6 and LI-4 daily, particularly during times when your hormones may fluctuate, such as before menstruation.
• Combine with a Warm Foot Bath: Warming your feet before or after pressing SP6 can enhance circulation and make acupressure more effective.
• Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Balanced Diet: Drinking enough water and eating nutrient-rich foods support detoxification and skin health from within.

When to Avoid SP6 and LI-4 Acupressure

Although acupressure is generally safe, avoid using SP6 and LI-4 if:

• Pregnant: SP6 can stimulate uterine contractions, so it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before using acupressure during pregnancy.
• Experiencing Varicose Veins or Bruising: If you have visible veins or bruises around these areas, consult a professional before performing acupressure on those points.

Final Thoughts on Using SP6 and LI-4 for Hormonal Acne

Using the SP6 acupressure point for hormonal acne offers a gentle yet powerful way to target the root causes of acne, such as hormonal imbalances and stress. Adding LI-4 into your routine can enhance these effects, improving circulation and reducing inflammation that leads to breakouts. With guidance from TCM experts like Ms. Mai Sogawa, combining SP6 and LI-4 can naturally support clearer skin and balanced hormones.

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