15 Sinus Pressure Points for Instant Relief (With Illustrated Guide)
The most effective sinus pressure points are LI20 (beside each nostril), BL2 (inner eyebrow corners), Yintang (between the eyebrows), and ST3 (below the cheekbones). Press each point firmly for 30 seconds using your fingertip or knuckle, working through all four in sequence. Most people feel reduced pressure within 1–3 minutes. This drug-free technique based on acupressure has been used for thousands of years and can be done anywhere, anytime.
How Do 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.
What Is the Correct Technique?
- Use your fingertip or knuckle to apply firm but comfortable pressure
- Press for 30 seconds to 3 minutes per point
- Use circular motions while maintaining pressure
- Breathe deeply and slowly throughout
Quick Reference: 15 Sinus Pressure Points
| Point | Location | Best For | Hold Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| LI20 (Welcome Fragrance) | Beside each nostril | Nasal congestion | 30 sec |
| BL2 (Drilling Bamboo) | Inner eyebrow edge | Frontal headache, eye pain | 30 sec |
| Yintang (Third Eye) | Between eyebrows | Frontal pressure, calming | 1 min |
| ST3 (Facial Beauty) | Below cheekbone, under pupil | Cheek pressure, maxillary pain | 30 sec |
| GV24.5 (Bridge of Nose) | Top of nasal bridge | Nasal blockage | 30 sec |
| SI18 (Cheekbone Hole) | Below outer eye corner | Deep sinus pain | 30 sec |
| GB20 (Wind Pool) | Base of skull, behind ears | Sinus headache, neck tension | 1 min |
| LI4 (Union Valley) | Between thumb and index finger | Headache, facial pain | 30 sec each hand |
| LU7 (Broken Sequence) | Inner wrist, 2 fingers above crease | Congestion, cough | 30 sec each wrist |
Note: Avoid LI4 during pregnancy.
Which Facial Pressure Points Work Best for Sinus Relief?
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.
Which Hand and Arm Points Help Sinus Pressure?
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.
What Is the Best 5-Minute Sinus Relief Routine?
Follow this sequence for comprehensive pressure relief in under 5 minutes:
- Minute 1: Press LI20 (beside nostrils) – 30 seconds, then GV24.5 (bridge of nose) – 30 seconds
- Minute 2: Press BL2 (inner eyebrows) – 30 seconds, then Yintang (third eye) – 30 seconds
- Minute 3: Press ST3 (below cheekbones) – 30 seconds, then SI18 (cheekbone hollow) – 30 seconds
- Minute 4: Press GB20 (base of skull) – 1 minute
- Minute 5: Press LI4 (hand webbing) – 30 seconds each hand
Repeat the full circuit 2–3 times for maximum relief.
What Should You Do 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 sinus pressure points work?
Most people feel noticeable relief within 1–3 minutes of applying steady pressure to the key facial points (LI20, BL2, Yintang). Maximum benefit comes from completing the full 5-minute routine and repeating it 2–3 times. For chronic sinus pressure, daily acupressure practice provides cumulative benefits over time.
Can you press sinus pressure points too hard?
Use firm pressure, but it should feel therapeutic — not painful. You should never press hard enough to cause bruising or sharp pain. If a point feels tender, that often indicates congestion in that area. Apply moderate pressure and gradually increase as the tenderness decreases.
Do sinus pressure points work for allergies?
Yes. The same pressure points that relieve sinus infection pressure also help with allergy-related congestion and pressure. LI20 (beside the nostrils) is particularly effective for allergic congestion, while GB20 (base of skull) can help relieve allergy headaches. For sustained allergy relief, combine acupressure with antihistamines and nasal corticosteroid sprays.
How often should you do sinus pressure point massage?
During acute sinus pressure, you can perform the 5-minute routine every 2–3 hours as needed. There is no risk of overdoing acupressure for sinus relief. For ongoing maintenance during cold and allergy season, performing the routine once or twice daily can help keep pressure from building up.
What is the single best pressure point for a sinus headache?
LI4 (Union Valley) in the webbing between your thumb and index finger is widely considered the single most effective acupressure point for headaches, including sinus headaches. Press firmly for 1–2 minutes on each hand. For sinus headaches specifically, combining LI4 with Yintang (between eyebrows) and BL2 (inner eyebrow corners) provides the most comprehensive relief.
The Bottom Line
Acupressure offers a safe, free, and effective way to manage sinus pressure. The key facial points — LI20, BL2, Yintang, and ST3 — provide the fastest relief and can be pressed anywhere without equipment. 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.
