There is a great deal of science behind the concept of “look good, feel good.” The psychological and physiological links between our appearance and our emotions has been studied extensively, increasing our understanding of how the adage is a very self-fulling function in the body. And we realize the wellness benefits of this connection long after the makeup wears off or we put our sweatpants and slippers back on.
Facial acupuncture is an underappreciated approach for nurturing the look good-feel good health rewards. Also referred to as acupuncture facial rejuvenation or cosmetic acupuncture, this treatment uses traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) principles to enhance the appearance of the face and body. The growing popularity of this ancient practice is attributed to its potential for both aesthetics and self care by adopting a holistic perspective, often integrating dietary advice, lifestyle changes, and other TCM practices to promote overall health alongside beauty.
Some of the significant benefits to skin care and health care provided by facial acupuncture include:
- Increased Collagen Production — Collagen, a vital protein that helps maintain skin elasticity and firmness, is often linked to reduced fine lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, by targeting areas of tension with regular treatments, facial acupuncture helps relax the muscles, thereby reducing their appearance over time for a more youthful appearance.
- Improved Blood Circulation — The insertion of needles enhances blood flow to the treated areas, providing essential nutrients and oxygen to the skin, which can help achieve a healthy glow and more even skin tone. Enhancing circulation with acupuncture also promotes the body’s natural healing processes overall.
- Promotes Lymphatic Drainage — Facial acupuncture may help facilitate lymphatic drainage, reducing swelling and puffiness. This detoxifying effect can enhance facial contour and overall facial symmetry.
- Addresses Underlying Issues — Many of the signs of aging can be exacerbated by stress, hormonal imbalance, and other lifestyle factors. Acupuncture can help alleviate stress and promote overall health, potentially addressing some underlying causes of skin or other health issues.
- Balances Energy Flow (Qi) — In TCM, health is linked to the balance of energy, or Qi, within the body. Facial acupuncture aims to restore this balance, which can lead to improvements in the skin as well as for overall health and emotional well-being.
The Face: A TCM Roadmap
Within TCM, much like the importance of balancing Qi, it’s also valuable to understand that facial diagnosis plays a key role by connecting specific areas of the face with corresponding organs and systems in the body. These main areas are riddled with the acupuncture points necessary for treating specific concerns and/or stimulating key trigger points for health and wellness. For example, the forehead corresponds to the bladder and small intestine. Two acupuncture points that can be applied to this area are Yintang (EX-HN3), which affects the mind and promotes relaxation; and Taiyang (EX-HN5), which relieves headaches and promotes circulation.
Here is an overview of the other main areas of the face, their corresponding organs, and associated acupuncture points, many of which are used during facial acupuncture. (See diagram.)
Eyebrows and Eyes
- Representing Organs: Liver and Gallbladder
- Acupuncture Points: Zanzhu (BL-2), improves circulation around the eyes; and Qiangjian (GB-14), lifts and brightens the area around the eyes.
Nose
- Representing Organs: Lung and Heart
- Acupuncture Points: Yingxiang (LI-20), opens the nasal passages, helps with respiratory issues; and Shangxing (DU-23), enhances nasal and facial health.
Cheeks
- Representing Organs: Stomach and Spleen
- Acupuncture Points: Suyuan (ST-8), lifts and firms the skin around the cheeks; and Jiache (ST-6), relieves tension in the jaw area.
Mouth and Jaw
- Representing Organs: Kidney and Digestive System
- Acupuncture Points: Hegu (LI-4), balances the body and boosts overall health; and Jiache (ST-6), important for jaw tension and issues.
Chin and Lower Jaw
- Representing Organs: Kidney and Reproductive System
- Acupuncture Points: Tianrong (REN-24), located on the chin, can help in lifting and rejuvenating the face; and Dazhong (KD-3), kidneys are represented here; good for overall vitality.
Ears
- Representing Organs: All organs are represented in auricular acupuncture.
- Acupuncture Points: Points on the ear can be manipulated to affect various organ systems throughout the body.
Facial Acupuncture Key Points
Acupuncture can be utilized for various cosmetic goals, including for: lifting and enhancing the brows; reducing nasolabial folds, commonly known as laugh lines; double chins and jowls; and crows feet — the fine lines and wrinkles that form on the outer corners of your eyes. While individual results may vary, numerous acupuncture points in varying combinations are used for promoting facial rejuvenation and targeting problem areas. The effects of facial acupuncture work by improving the skin’s elasticity and tone, promoting circulation and muscle relaxation, and stimulating the immune system and natural healing.
There are several overlapping acupuncture points referenced with facial acupuncture. Of those, here are the top five most commonly occurring acupuncture points that may be beneficial for achieving these various aesthetic goals and offering supplemental self care and wellness benefits:
- Yintang (EX-HN3)
Located between the eyebrows, this point is often referred to as the “third eye” and is thought to improve skin tone and promote relaxation. Its calming effects reduce stress that can contribute to the appearance of fine lines. It’s linked with improving overall health and vitality.
- Taiyang (EX-HN5)
Found in the temple area, in the hollows of the cheekbones, this point can help relieve tension, especially around the eyes, improve skin elasticity, and may assist in enhancing the overall appearance of the face.
- Suyuan (ST-8)
Located at the corner of the forehead just above the temples, it is often associated with lifting the brow and helping improve the nasolabial folds as well as general facial structure.
- Zanzhu (BL-2)
Found at the inner corner of the eyebrows, this point can help with lifting the brow and improving facial circulation, which assists with reducing puffiness and potentially aiding in the reduction of crow’s feet, as well as benefiting the area around the jawline.
- Fengchi (GB-20)
Located at the base of the skull, in the hollows just above the neck, this point is associated with relieving tension, especially in the neck and upper back, and improving circulation, contributing to facial aesthetics.
Facial rejuvenation in acupuncture often involves not only local points on the face but also significant distal points that can affect the entire body and promote healing, balance, and vitality. Distal acupuncture points are typically located away from the face but can significantly impact facial skin health, circulation, and overall well-being.
Here are some notable distal body points often used in facial rejuvenation treatments:
- Hegu (LI-4): Located on the hand, in the webbing between the thumb and index finger, this point is commonly used for pain relief, balance, and ability to stimulate the immune system. It helps regulate the body’s overall energy and enhances facial treatments.
- Shenmen (HT-7): Found on the wrist, in the ulnar notch, it is often used to calm the mind and improve sleep quality, thereby indirectly benefiting facial health by reducing stress, which can affect skin appearance.
- Tai Chong (LR-3): Located on the foot, in the depression between the first and second metatarsals. This point is linked to the Liver and can help detoxify the body, improve circulation, and promote a healthy complexion.
- San Yin Jiao (SP-6): Found on the lower leg, about 3 inches above the inner ankle bone. Used to regulate bodily fluids and hormonal balance, this point can have a positive effect on skin elasticity and hydration.
Muscle Motor Points
While acupuncture may help improve circulation, promote relaxation, and support overall skin health, muscle motor points (also known as trigger points) can help release tension in the facial and neck muscles. Muscle motor points are areas where nerves connect to muscle fibers. Stimulating these points through techniques like facial exercises can help tone the muscles around the eyes, neck and jaw.
Here are some key areas to consider and their role with respect to facial rejuvenation:
- Orbicularis Oculi Muscle — This muscle encircles the eye and is responsible for closing the eyelids. Strengthening it through targeted exercises can help minimize the appearance of crow’s feet.
- Frontalis Muscle — Located on the forehead, this muscle raises the eyebrows. Strengthening and relaxing it can help counteract the pulling down on the eye area.
- Masseter Muscle — Located in the jaw, and responsible for chewing, trigger points in the masseter can contribute to tension in the jaw and neck. Massaging these points can reduce tension and potentially enhance the jawline.
- Buccinator Muscle — Found in the cheek area, this muscle plays a role in facial structure. Relaxing or massaging it may help reduce fullness in the face.
- Cervical Flexors — Located at the front of the neck. Tightness in the neck muscles can contribute to the appearance of a double chin. Releasing tension here can improve the overall neck and jawline appearance.
Facial acupuncture is a valuable skin care and self care approach for overall well-being and revitalizing a youthful look. The acupuncture points discussed are just a few examples of the many ways a skilled acupuncturist can assist with your health and beauty goals. It’s important to note that treatment is highly individual, influenced by each person’s medical history and specific aesthetic concerns. Additionally, distal points may vary based on an individual’s overall condition. To achieve optimal results more quickly, factors such as lifestyle, diet, and supplementation should be considered, often in consultation with a healthcare provider. Personalized approaches are key to effective and lasting improvements on your journey to looking and feeling good.
* * * *
If you are interested in exploring facial acupuncture to meet health and beauty goals, schedule a FREE consultation, or book an appointment with us. Contact our office: 301-881-2898, or email info@rockvilleacupuncturemd.com.