The Facial Beauty pressure point (St 3) is a well-established acupressure point on the face, located along the Stomach meridian in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is commonly used to address symptoms related to nasal congestion, facial tension, and ocular fatigue. Positioned under the cheekbone, this point is frequently integrated into facial massage and therapeutic acupressure protocols to promote sinus drainage and muscular relaxation in the mid-face region.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | St 3 – Facial Beauty |
| Body Area | Face |
| Exact Location | Bottom of cheekbone, directly below pupil |
| Common Uses | Relieves nasal congestion, eye fatigue, facial tension |
| Stimulation Technique | Press upward under cheekbone with fingertips for 1 min |
| Contraindications | Avoid with facial inflammation, acute sinus infection, or bruising |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
The Facial Beauty pressure point is frequently used in both clinical and aesthetic contexts to reduce tension and congestion in the central face. This point is associated with:
- Nasal congestion due to allergies or sinus inflammation
- Eye strain or fatigue, particularly after prolonged screen use
- Muscle tightness in the cheeks and upper jaw
- Puffiness or heaviness in the mid-face
Functionally, this point influences the facial nerve branches and the local lymphatic system, making it valuable for enhancing circulation and reducing localized pressure or fluid buildup. It is also used in facial acupuncture and gua sha routines for cosmetic purposes.
Location
St 3 is located at the base of the cheekbone, directly in line with the center of the pupil when the eyes are facing forward.
To locate it:
- Look straight ahead
- Place your index finger directly below the pupil
- Slide your finger downward until you feel the bottom edge of the zygomatic (cheek) bone
This point often appears in acupressure facial diagrams and is situated just lateral to the nasolabial groove.
How to Stimulate It
Follow these steps to apply pressure effectively:
- Technique: Use the pads of your index or middle fingers
- Direction: Press upward and slightly inward beneath the cheekbone
- Intensity: Moderate pressure, firm but not painful
- Duration: Maintain pressure for 1 minute on each side
- Frequency: Once or twice daily, or during episodes of nasal congestion or facial fatigue
- Position: Best performed seated in front of a mirror to ensure symmetrical placement
St 3 can be used alone or alongside other facial points in sinus relief or cosmetic acupressure routines.
Benefits and Common Uses
This point is traditionally and clinically applied for:
- Sinus relief, helping clear blocked nasal passages
- Reducing eye fatigue, particularly from digital strain
- Easing tension in the cheeks and upper jaw
- Enhancing lymphatic drainage in the mid-face
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, St 3 is thought to clear wind and heat from the face and regulate Qi along the Stomach meridian. Its position on the meridian links it to functions involving digestion, which are believed to reflect in the skin and facial tone.
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
The Facial Beauty pressure point lies near the infraorbital foramen, through which the infraorbital nerve exits, providing sensory input to the mid-face. Stimulating this area may:
- Relieve pressure in the paranasal sinuses
- Improve lymphatic drainage and reduce swelling
- Activate facial muscles and skin tissue
- Stimulate parasympathetic nervous system responses for relaxation
In traditional frameworks, this point plays a role in harmonizing upper and lower energy flows in the body, particularly those affecting the face, digestion, and sensory clarity.
Practitioner Insight
In my experience, this point has consistently helped reduce cheek tightness and that dull, congested feeling that can settle in the face during allergy season. Gentle upward pressure often creates a releasing sensation that travels toward the nose and eyes, signaling improved flow and drainage.
Safety & Contraindications
Stimulation of St 3 should be avoided in the following cases:
- Facial bruising, inflammation, or trauma
- Severe acne, cysts, or skin lesions near the area
- Recent surgery or cosmetic injections in the mid-face
Use only light pressure near sensitive or inflamed tissue. For full safety guidelines, refer to our acupressure safety guide.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
St 3 is often combined with:
- LI20 – Welcome Fragrance to enhance nasal passage clearance
- St 2 – Four Whites to relieve eye strain and improve skin tone
- LI4 – Hegu for whole-body energy and facial circulation
Complementary techniques:
- Facial gua sha or cupping for lymphatic movement
- Breathwork during stimulation to enhance parasympathetic activation
- Warm compress before application for deeper relaxation
Scientific Perspective
Studies on facial acupressure have shown beneficial effects on facial blood flow, muscle tone, and nasal airflow. Pressure applied to regions involving the infraorbital nerve and adjacent musculature has been linked to reductions in perceived facial pain and improvements in sinus drainage. PubMed Source