ACUPRESSURE: THE GUIDE ACCORDING TO YOUR SKIN TYPE

Acupression : le guide selon votre type de peau

Acupressure: A Complete Guide to Taking Care of Your Skin According to Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupressure is a centuries-old practice from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that focuses on balancing the body's energy. This technique involves applying pressure to specific points, called acupressure points, located along energy meridians. Unlike acupuncture, which uses needles, acupressure is typically done with the fingers, especially the thumb and index finger, but also with tools such as soft balls or acupressure sticks.

In this article, we'll explain the benefits of acupressure for the skin, how it can be used based on your skin type and element, and a practical guide to working on specific points according to your needs.

What is acupressure and what are its benefits?

Acupressure is based on the theory of energy meridians, invisible channels that run throughout the body. By stimulating key points along these meridians, it is possible to promote blood and lymphatic circulation, relieve tension and revitalize the body's natural functions. Here are some of the main benefits of acupressure:

  • Stress and Anxiety Reduction: By releasing built-up tension, acupressure helps calm the nervous system.
  • Improved blood circulation: Better circulation helps skin regain its radiance and vitality.
  • Muscle Pain Relief: By stimulating certain points, it is possible to release blockages that cause pain in different areas of the body.
  • Energy balancing: Each acupressure point is linked to an element and an organ according to TCM, thus allowing the harmonizing of vital energy, Qi.

How to practice acupressure at home?

Acupressure is a simple practice to do at home, provided you follow a few recommendations:

  • Use your fingers (mainly thumb and index finger) to apply moderate pressure to the identified points.
  • Keep the pressure on for 30 seconds to 1 minute while breathing deeply.
  • If you wish, use acupressure tools such as specially designed balls or sticks.
  • Repeat this ritual two to three times a week for optimal results.

Do not hesitate to ask for advice or consult an acupuncturist before any self-practice.

Acupressure and skin care according to your skin type and element

In traditional Chinese medicine, the skin is directly related to the balance of the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Each element is associated with a specific skin type and specific skin care needs. For each skin type, there are acupressure points that can help achieve the desired effects.

1. Combination to oily skin – Wood Element

Combination to oily skin is often prone to excessive sebum production, creating shine and blemishes. Wood, associated with the liver and gallbladder, is the element linked to this type of skin. The goal of acupressure in this case is to mattify the skin and promote circulation.

Wood element acupressure points for oily skin

Recommended acupressure points:

  • 14VB (Gallbladder): Promotes the release of toxins.
  • 1VB, 3VB, 7VB : Drives out moisture and increases oxygen supply.
  • 8VB, 9VB, 10VB, 11VB, 20VB : Work on eliminating tension and calming the mind.
To complete the experience and prolong these effects, use our Mattifying Face Cream for combination to oily skin. Its formulation balances excess sebum while leaving a fresh and mattified finish.

 

2. Sensitive skin – Fire element

Sensitive skin is characterized by increased reactivity, redness and sensations of heat. Fire, linked to the heart and small intestine, is the dominant element for these skins. Acupressure will aim to soothe and reduce inflammation.

Acupressure points fire element sensitive skin

Recommended acupressure points:

  • 23TR, 21TR (Triple Warmer): Acts on redness, swelling and drooping eyelids.
  • 18IG, 19IG (Small Intestine): Drive away wind and reduce heat.
  • 17IG, 16TR : “Window of Heaven” points, regulate and lower Qi.

To strengthen and protect fragile skin, use the Soothing Facial Fluid for sensitive skin. It will help maintain skin balance and prevent irritation.

3. Normal skin – Earth element

Normal skin is balanced but may need a boost to maintain vitality. The earth element, associated with the stomach and spleen, promotes stability and vital energy.

Earth element acupressure points for normal skin

Recommended acupressure points:

  • 1E, 18IG, 4E (Stomach, Small Intestine): Stimulate digestion and general energy, contributing to healthy skin.
  • 7E, 6E, 9E : Regulate Qi and blood.

Combine your ritual with Vitality Face Cream, designed to maintain the hydration and balance of normal skin.

4. Dull skin – Metal element

Dull skin often lacks radiance and can show signs of premature aging. The metal element, linked to the lungs and large intestine, is associated with thinking and breathing, two essential aspects for glowing skin.

Acupressure points metal element dull skin

Recommended acupressure points:

  • 20GI, 18IG (Large Intestine, Small Intestine): Drive out wind and eliminate heat.
  • 24RM, 18GI, 17GI : Calm wind and have beneficial effects on the face.

To enhance this process, finish with the Radiance Face Cream. Its formula helps to brighten the complexion and firm the skin.

5. Dry to very dry skin – Water element

Dry skin lacks suppleness and needs to be deeply nourished. The water element, associated with the kidneys and bladder, is linked to rehydration and deep vitality.

Acupressure points water element dry skin

Recommended acupressure points:

  • 1V, 2V, 3V, 4V, 5V (Bladder): Stimulate internal hydration.
  • 18IG, 24RM (Small Intestine, RM: Conception Vessel): Calm wind, eliminate heat and have beneficial effects on the face.

To complete your routine, apply our Anti-Aging Rich Cream specially formulated for dry to very dry skin, which provides intense hydration and a plumping action.

    Precautions to take

    Acupressure is a gentle method, but some precautions are necessary:

    • Do not practice acupressure on irritated or damaged skin.
    • In case of particular medical conditions, it is recommended to consult an acupuncturist before any practice.
    • If you are pregnant, consult an acupuncturist before any practice.
    • Avoid putting too much pressure on the points to avoid causing pain.

    Conclusion

    Acupressure is a natural and effective technique to take care of your skin based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine. By stimulating specific points related to your skin type and element, you can regain balanced, radiant and fully revitalized skin.

    Want to know more about how to adapt this practice to your daily routine? Discover our Nuence MTC products, specially designed to help you fully exploit the benefits of acupressure and enhance your skin, naturally and in harmony with the elements.