Hold the Needles: the Beauty Benefits of Acupressure Written by Rachelle Dupree, marketing, communication, and design at Vivoderm Natural Skincare, published in Dermascope Magazine, July 2018 © https://www.dermascope.com/digital/July/ https://www.dermascope.com/wholistic/9525-hold-the-needles-the-beauty-benefits-of-acupressure In recent years, acupressure and acupuncture have moved from a little-known, holistic health practice to a proven, mainstream, medical treatment. Acupressure (much like acupuncture, but without using needles) is a 5,000-year-old Chinese medical practice used to relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote health and wellness through unblocking or stimulating certain meridians (or Qi) found all over the body and face. Treating the acupoints of the face promotes the flow of Qi and increases blood flow throughout the skin, while helping to remove toxins. Cosmetic acupressure can help the face look healthier from the inside out. Acupressure relies on the same system of channels and points as acupuncture, stimulating the points by applying gentle pressure on specific areas of the face or body instead of inserting needles. Acupressure is safe, effective, and easy to learn, making it a wonderful addition to any facial treatment. Massaging trigger points is simple, soothing, and will help with all types of facial concerns – from reducing fine lines to diminishing stagnation or edema – by bringing skin into better balance by increasing oxygenation and blood flow. Do not worry about locating exact points of pressure. The face and scalp are rich with trigger points and any point that is tender should receive extra attention. Always start with singular pressure for approximately 30 to 60 seconds, followed by small, circular motions around the designated area. Adding a few drops of a favorite essential oil to the facial massage oil or skin care product can also create an extra rejuvenating and fragrant experience. First, place a few drops of essential oil into the palms and rest the cupped hands over the client’s nose to inhale for aromatherapy benefits before the pressure point massage. Begin with a quick, soothing, all-over facial massage, including the neck and clavicle area in uplifting, gentle strokes. Third Eye Point The “third eye” is one of the most common acupressure points, found exactly in between the eyebrows, where the bridge of the nose meets the forehead. Apply mild pressure on this point with the index finger for 60 seconds. This area, and the surrounding eye area, is directly related to the endocrine or pituitary gland and will improve skin texture, reduce inflammation, and improve overall…
Read More