BLOG 312: THE ULTIMATE TCM GUIDE TO FACIAL ACUPRESSURE AROUND THE MOUTH FOR LESS LINES AND WRINKLES

Facial acupressure is a powerful technique derived from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that can help you rejuvenate your skin, relieve tension, and promote overall health. By focusing on key acupressure points around the mouth and lips, you can smooth fine lines, improve circulation, and encourage the natural vitality of your face. This step-by-step guide, inspired by Danielle Collins' Face Yoga Method, which I have taught for 20 years now, combines modern scientific insights with ancient TCM principles to bring you a holistic face lift.

What is Facial Acupressure?

Facial acupressure is an easy-to-learn technique that uses targeted pressure on specific points along energy pathways (known as meridians) in the face to help stimulate the flow of Qi (energy) and blood. In TCM, it’s believed that blockages in the flow of Qi can lead to discomfort, signs of ageing, and other skin issues. By releasing tension and promoting circulation, facial acupressure can help your skin look fresher, smoother and healthier.

When applied to the mouth and lips, acupressure targets areas that are prone to tension, fine lines, and sagging skin, improving the overall health and tone of your face.

Step-by-Step Guide to Facial Acupressure Around the Mouth and Lips

Before you begin, it’s important to create a peaceful, calm space for your practice. Find a quiet place, take a few deep breaths to centre yourself, and warm up your hands by rubbing them together. This will help you relax and set the vibe for the rejuvenating effects of the acupressure. Today we will do some static points as well as some moving massage which stimulates a few points along the way.

1. Mouth Corner (Shuai)

• Location: Place your fingers at the corners of your mouth, where your top lip meets your bottom lip.
• Technique: Gently press with your index fingers and massage in small circles for about 30 seconds, focusing on any tension or tightness.
• TCM Insight: This area helps balance energy flow to the lower face and jawline, promoting relaxation and reducing signs of sagging.
• Benefit: Helps lift and firm the mouth area, reducing sagging and encouraging relaxation of the jawline.

2. Smile Line (Nasolabial Fold)

• Location: Along the line from the side of your nose to the corner of your mouth, where smile lines often form.
• Technique: Using your index fingers, press gently along the nasolabial fold, moving from the jaw to the corner of the mouth then to the nostrils in a simple light of small pressing actions. Massage for 30 seconds on each side.
• TCM Insight: This line falls along the stomach meridian in TCM, which is associated with facial ageing. By stimulating this area, you can help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of smile lines.
• Benefit: Reduces the appearance of smile lines and stimulates blood flow, promoting a youthful, fresh complexion.

3. Lip Line (Ren-24)

• Location: Just below the centre of your bottom lip, along the midline of your chin.
• Technique: Using your index finger, gently press into this spot or make small circular motions for about 20-30 seconds.
• TCM Insight: Ren-24 is a key point on the Ren Mai (Conception Vessel) meridian, which governs facial energy. By stimulating this point, you support the skin around the lips and mouth, encouraging collagen production and skin tightening.
• Benefit: Helps smooth fine lines, tighten the skin, and enhance the appearance of the lips.

4. Jawline (Jiache)

• Location: Place your fingers just below your jawline, near the bone of your jaw.
• Technique: Use your index fingers to gently apply pressure, massaging in circular motions from the centre of the chin outward to the jawline. Continue for 30 seconds on each side.
• TCM Insight: Jiache (St-6) is a TCM point located along the stomach meridian, which governs the jaw, mouth, and teeth. This point is often used to release tension from the jaw and improve skin tone.
• Benefit: Relieves jaw tension (especially useful for those who clench or grind their teeth), reduces puffiness, and promotes a more defined jawline.

5. Upper Lip (Renzhong)

• Location: Located directly under the nose, above the upper lip, in the center of the philtrum (the indentation above the lip).
• Technique: Using your index finger, gently press and hold this spot for 15-20 seconds, or make small circular movements.
• TCM Insight: Renzhong (GV-26) is a key point on the Du Mai meridian, which governs the spine and central nervous system. Stimulating this area can promote energy flow and enhance the skin’s appearance around the lips. Avoid this point in pregnancy.
• Benefit: Helps plump the lips, reduces fine lines around the upper lip, reduces dizziness and nausea and boosts circulation in the face.

Closing the Practice: Soothing Pressure

Once you've completed your acupressure routine, take a moment to complete the practice with a soothing finish.

• Technique: Place your palms gently against your cheeks, jawline, and lips, holding them there for a few moments while taking deep breaths. This helps to calm and settle the energy that you’ve just activated.
• Final Relaxation: Close your eyes and take another deep breath. Allow your body and face to relax fully, enjoying the peaceful sensation of your facial acupressure session.

Additional Tips for Best Results

• Frequency: To see noticeable results, practice this facial acupressure routine 3-4 times a week. Consistency is key to enhancing skin elasticity and reducing tension.
• Hydrate: After your session, drink plenty of water to support your skin’s detoxification and overall health.
• Gentleness: Always apply gentle pressure to avoid any discomfort. Acupressure should feel soothing and relaxing, not painful.
• Complement with Face Yoga: Pair this acupressure practice with my other Face Yoga techniques to further enhance muscle tone and elasticity in your face.

Final Thoughts

Facial acupressure, combined with the wisdom of TCM, offers a natural and effective way to reduce the appearance of fine lines, relieve jaw tension, and improve skin health. By incorporating these simple yet powerful techniques into your routine, you can achieve smoother, firmer, and more radiant skin around your mouth and lips (and feel great in your mind and body too!).

You can learn more about acupressure and Face Yoga in my £31 self study course here.