Every wellness system has its own unique approaches to beauty, which can vary widely based on philosophical or scientific foundations, as well as current beauty trends. Some systems promote miracle creams, others emphasize cleansing methods, and some draw on age-old family secrets. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), however, focuses on nurturing beauty that comes from internal balance. One of the tools used in TCM skincare is “cheekbone crevice (quan liao, SI18),” an acupoint on the cheek that plays a crucial role in helping your face appear refreshed. In this context, beauty is a welcome side effect of something more profound.
Ancient Insights—Detox and Beauty the TCM Way
Quan Liao is first mentioned in the classical text “Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing (A to B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion),” a foundational work in acupuncture. The quan liao point is part of the small intestine meridian, an energy pathway that runs from the pinky finger to the head. This meridian is associated with digestion, which is considered essential for beauty in holistic medicine. The underlying principle is straightforward: when your body efficiently absorbs nutrients and eliminates toxins, your skin reflects that internal balance.
Quan liao is recognized for its ability to expel toxins and alleviate pathogenic “heat”—which can present as inflammation, swelling, and redness. In practice, this means that quan liao is often used to calm excessive redness, reduce facial puffiness, and promote a healthy complexion.
However, quan liao’s applications extend beyond beauty. It is also one of the key acupuncture points in treating facial paralysis, especially in sudden cases that develop overnight, such as Bell’s palsy. Due to its effectiveness in reducing swelling and regulating nerve function, quan liao is frequently used for issues like swollen cheeks, inflammation-related toothaches, and twitching eyelids.
Modern Science Is Catching Up
Modern researchers are increasingly curious about the biological principles underlying acupuncture’s effectiveness. In one animal study, scientists used electroacupuncture at quan liao and sibai (ST2), an acupoint on the stomach meridian, and measured changes in mouse brain activity. They found significant increases in excitatory neurons in the brain regions responsible for feeling and movement. Importantly, this wasn’t just random stimulation—the activity spiked during treatment and dropped off afterward, suggesting a direct, regulated effect.
This data, gathered using modern observation methods, illustrates how facial acupuncture might support muscle coordination, nerve activation, and sensory recovery.
How to Find Quan Liao
To locate this point, look straight ahead and trace a vertical line directly downward from the outer corner of your eye. You’ll find it in a small depression under the cheekbone. Press into the area until you find a slightly sensitive spot—that’s your mark.
Activating the point for self-care:
- Firm pressing: Hold for 5 to 10 seconds, release, and repeat for 1 to 3 minutes on each side.
- Massage: Apply circular motions with your index finger or thumb to stimulate the area for 1 to 3 minutes on each side. Start with gentle pressure and adjust according to your comfort level to find the balance between activation and comfort.
- Herbal patch: Apply and leave on overnight for extended stimulation.
- Advanced options: Use acupuncture, cupping, and moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) to enhance the curative effects. These techniques should be performed only by trained professionals.
A Few Precautions
Do not use this point if there is an open wound, such as a severe pimple or cut. If you are using herbal patches, carefully read the ingredient list to ensure that there are no harsh chemicals that could cause irritation—especially since these patches are applied near the delicate eye area.
Beauty That’s Rooted in Balance
TCM offers a wide range of acupoints for beauty, each with its distinctive purpose. Quan liao is particularly effective in reducing inflammation, calming swelling, and removing toxins, making it a valuable addition to your self-care routine. This approach is not about chasing the latest beauty trends or fixing perceived flaws. Instead, it focuses on establishing a foundation of balance, allowing your skin to reflect the well-being you feel inside. Beauty that stems from health is timeless and doesn’t fade with passing trends—and quan liao is an excellent place to begin.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 10 June 2025
