15 Sinus Pressure Points for Instant Relief (With Illustrated Guide)

When sinus pressure strikes, you want relief fast. While medications can help, there’s a drug-free technique that’s been used for thousands of years: acupressure. By applying targeted pressure to specific points on your face, hands, and body, you can often reduce sinus congestion and pain within minutes.

How Pressure Points Relieve Sinus Pressure

Acupressure is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). From a Western perspective, pressing these points may increase blood circulation, stimulate nerve pathways, release tension in facial muscles, and encourage lymphatic drainage. For additional strategies beyond acupressure, see our comprehensive sinus pressure relief guide.

Basic Technique

• Use your fingertip or knuckle to apply firm but comfortable pressure
• Press for 30 seconds to 3 minutes
• Use circular motions while maintaining pressure
• Breathe deeply and slowly throughout

Facial Pressure Points

1. LI20 – Welcome Fragrance (Yingxiang)

Location: On either side of your nostrils, in the groove where your nose meets your cheek.

Benefits: One of the most powerful points for nasal congestion. Provides almost immediate relief from stuffiness.

2. BL2 – Drilling Bamboo (Zanzhu)

Location: At the inner edge of your eyebrows, where they meet the bridge of your nose.

Benefits: Excellent for frontal sinus headaches and pain around the eyes.

3. Yintang – Third Eye Point

Location: In the center of your forehead, directly between your eyebrows.

Benefits: Relieves frontal headaches, calms the mind, and reduces overall sinus pressure.

4. ST3 – Facial Beauty (Juliao)

Location: At the bottom of each cheekbone, directly below the pupil.

Benefits: Targets the maxillary sinuses. Particularly helpful for cheek pressure and pain.

Hand and Arm Pressure Points

11. LI4 – Union Valley (Hegu)

Location: In the webbing between your thumb and index finger.

Warning: Avoid this point during pregnancy.

Benefits: One of the most versatile points. Relieves headaches, facial pain, and sinus pressure.

12. LU7 – Broken Sequence (Lieque)

Location: On the inner wrist, about two finger-widths above the wrist crease.

Benefits: A key point for respiratory issues, including sinus congestion and cough.

Complete 5-Minute Sinus Relief Routine

Minute 1: Press LI20 (beside nostrils) – 30 seconds, Press GV24.5 (bridge of nose) – 30 seconds

Minute 2: Press BL2 (inner eyebrows) – 30 seconds, Press Yintang (third eye) – 30 seconds

Minute 3: Press ST3 (below cheekbones) – 30 seconds, Press SI18 (cheekbone hollow) – 30 seconds

Minute 4: Press GB20 (base of skull) – 1 minute

Minute 5: Press LI4 (hand webbing) – 30 seconds each hand

When Pressure Points Aren’t Enough

If acupressure alone isn’t providing enough relief, consider pairing it with nasal irrigation using a neti pot to flush mucus and allergens from your sinuses.

See a doctor if you experience:

• Symptoms lasting more than 10 days
• High fever (over 102°F / 39°C)
• Severe facial pain or swelling
• Vision changes

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly do pressure points work?

Many people feel relief within minutes. Maximum benefit comes from consistent practice.

Can I press too hard?

Use firm pressure, but it should feel good. Never press hard enough to cause bruising.

The Bottom Line

Acupressure offers a safe, free, and effective way to manage sinus pressure. For even more comfort, try sipping a warm herbal tea for congestion while performing your routine. Keep this guide handy, and the next time sinus pressure strikes, you’ll have 15 powerful points ready to help you breathe easier.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. If you have chronic sinus issues, please consult a healthcare provider.