Acne: Acupressure Points & Self-Care

Acne is a common skin disease that causes pimples. Pimples form when hair follicles under the skin clog up. No one knows exactly what causes acne; hormone changes, such as in the teenage years and pregnancy, likely play a role. Anyone can get it, but it is common in teenagers and young adults.

Traditional use: in TCM, points such as LI-11, ST-36 and GV-14 are traditionally used for skin breakouts. Medical treatments include medicines and creams.

Recognizing Symptoms

Physical Symptoms

  • Pimples
  • Blackheads

Primary Points for Acne

Select a point to learn more.

Additional Support Points

Select a point to learn more.

Self-Care Acupressure Routines

Acne Routine (10 minutes)

  1. Wash your hands and clean your face gently before starting
  2. Sit comfortably and take 5 slow, deep breaths
  3. Press LI-11 firmly for 1 minute each arm
  4. Massage ST-36 for 1 minute each leg
  5. Apply pressure to GV-14 for 1 minute
  6. For hormonal acne: add SP-6 for 1 minute each leg
  7. For facial breakouts: gently press ST-44 for 30 seconds each foot

Everyday Considerations

Skin care

  • Gentle cleaning: Clean your skin gently
  • Hands off: Try not to touch your skin
  • Sun: Avoid the sun

Pregnancy

  • Traditionally avoided during pregnancy: LI-4, SP-6. Skip these points if you are or may be pregnant.

When to Seek Medical Care

See a health care provider

  • For acne that bothers you: treatments include medicines and creams