Where should you use moxibustion for acne on the face to recover faster?

Dec 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Acne on the face may be treated with moxibustion at acupoints such as Zusanli (ST36), Quchi (LI11), Hegu (LI4), Sanyinjiao (SP6), and Taichong (LR3). Moxibustion should be performed under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. If acne is severe, accompanied by infection, or shows no improvement after moxibustion, prompt medical attention is advised. The Zusanli point is located three cun below the犊鼻 (Dubi) point on the outer side of the lower leg. Moxibustion at this point helps regulate spleen and stomach functions, promotes metabolism, and reduces accumulation of damp-heat in the body.

Acne on the face may be treated with moxibustion at acupoints such as Zusanli (ST36), Quchi (LI11), Hegu (LI4), Sanyinjiao (SP6), and Taichong (LR3). Moxibustion should be performed under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. If acne is severe, accompanied by infection, or shows no improvement after moxibustion, prompt medical attention is advised.

1. Zusanli (ST36): Located three cun below the犊knee cap (Dubi point) on the outer side of the lower leg. Moxibustion at this point helps regulate spleen and stomach functions, promotes metabolism, and reduces internal accumulation of damp-heat, thereby assisting in improving acne caused by gastrointestinal imbalance.

2. Quchi (LI11): Found at the lateral end of the elbow crease, midway between the points Chize and the lateral epicondyle of the humerus when the elbow is bent. Moxibustion here clears heat, resolves exterior conditions, unblocks meridians, and helps relieve acne due to lung heat or meridian stagnation.

3. Hegu (LI4): Located at the midpoint on the radial side of the second metacarpal bone on the back of the hand. Moxibustion at this point disperses wind, clears heat, regulates qi, and activates blood circulation, helping improve facial blood flow and reduce redness and swelling of acne.

4. Sanyinjiao (SP6): Found three cun above the tip of the inner ankle, posterior to the posterior border of the tibia on the inner side of the lower leg. Moxibustion helps regulate the liver, spleen, and kidneys, balances yin and yang in the body, and alleviates acne caused by endocrine disorders.

5. Taichong (LR3): Situated in the depression anterior to the junction of the first and second metatarsal bones on the dorsum of the foot. Moxibustion at this point soothes the liver, regulates qi, clears heat, and drains fire, providing supportive improvement for acne triggered by excessive liver fire.

In daily life, maintain facial cleanliness, avoid squeezing acne, eat a light diet avoiding spicy and greasy foods, ensure adequate sleep, avoid staying up late, and minimize mental stress to support skin recovery.