The Cheekbone Hole, known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as SI 18, is a facial acupressure point located just below the outer corner of the eye, beneath the cheekbone. It’s part of the Small Intestine meridian and often used in treatments involving the face and sinuses.
Quick facts:
- Eases facial pain, sinus pressure, and swelling
- Found directly below the outer eye, at the base of the cheekbone
- Commonly stimulated for facial neuralgia and cosmetic acupressure
Some texts also mention this point as part of facial beauty routines or sinus relief sequences, reflecting its aesthetic and therapeutic versatility.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | SI 18 – Cheekbone Hole |
| Body Area | Face |
| Exact Location | Below the cheekbone, directly under the outer corner of the eye |
| Common Uses | Sinus relief, facial pain, swelling, facial paralysis |
| Stimulation Technique | Gentle pressure with fingertip or knuckle |
| Contraindications | Avoid in cases of skin infections or open wounds in the area |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
SI 18 is a local point frequently used to address:
- Facial pain or neuralgia, especially in the cheek or upper jaw
- Sinus congestion and nasal blockage
- Facial swelling, often due to allergies or lymphatic stagnation
- Facial paralysis (e.g., Bell’s palsy) in integrative therapies
In TCM, SI 18 is associated with dispersing Wind and clearing Heat, making it valuable for treating acute conditions involving facial inflammation or puffiness.
Location
To locate SI 18:
- Draw an imaginary vertical line down from the outer corner of your eye
- Palpate the hollow just beneath the cheekbone in that line
- It may feel slightly tender or recessed when pressed
Use a mirror or gentle palpation to confirm symmetry on both sides.
Looking for an easier way to use this point in your wellness routine? This pressure point is simple to locate and even easier to apply when guided step-by-step. It’s featured in over 70 evidence-based pressure point protocols inside our Pressure Points Guide app. Whether you’re looking to relieve sinus pressure, reduce facial swelling, or ease facial tension, the app guides you through every session with clear visuals and audio instructions. Click here to download our app.
How to Stimulate It
- Tool: Use your index or middle fingertip
- Pressure: Gentle but firm; avoid excessive force
- Duration: Hold for 1–2 minutes per side
- Frequency: 1–3 times daily or as needed
- Posture: Seated or reclined, relaxed facial muscles
- Often paired with LI 20, GV 24.5, and St 3 for sinus or facial treatments
Benefits and Common Uses
- Physical:
- Alleviates sinus pressure and nasal congestion
- Reduces facial swelling and puffiness
- Relieves localized pain in cheek and upper jaw
- Enhances lymphatic circulation in the face
- Cosmetic:
- Sometimes used in acupressure facials to improve skin tone and firmness
In energetic terms, it is believed to help regulate Qi stagnation in the face and open pathways along the Small Intestine meridian.
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
From a modern anatomical viewpoint:
- Stimulating SI 18 may help modulate sensory nerves (notably the infraorbital nerve)
- Enhances circulation in local capillary beds and lymphatic drainage
- May support the parasympathetic response, relaxing facial tension
In TCM, SI 18 is seen as a point where Wind and Heat accumulate, hence its use in facial inflammation or acute sinus flare-ups.
Practitioner Insight
I’ve often used SI 18 during seasonal allergy peaks, when clients experience puffiness and pressure under their eyes. Combining it with a short facial drainage routine can bring surprisingly fast relief, especially when paired with deep breathing. It’s also gentle enough for daily use, making it a favorite in self-care regimens.
Safety & Contraindications
- Avoid pressing if there are skin infections, open wounds, or recent facial trauma
- Use light touch in cases of bruising or inflammation
- Caution around the orbital region; never press directly on the eye
- For detailed precautions, visit our acupressure safety guide
- Explore more safe practices in our acupressure category
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
Complementary pressure points include:
- LI 20 – Welcome Fragrance – near nostrils, for sinus relief
- GV 24.5 – Third Eye Point – calms the mind and clears nasal passages
- St 3 – Facial Beauty – enhances circulation and reduces puffiness
Adjunct techniques:
- Facial tapping
- Warm compresses
- Lymphatic facial massage
More sessions with Cheekbone Hole (SI 18) in our “Pressure Points Guide App”
Scientific Perspective
While direct research on SI 18 is limited, studies suggest acupressure on facial points may reduce facial pain, improve sinus drainage, and modulate autonomic nervous system activity (NIH: PMC7574107).
Facial acupressure has also been evaluated for its potential to enhance circulation and reduce symptoms in chronic rhinosinusitis and migraine patients.