4.8
Blemishes and Scars: natural remedies and the evidence behind them
13 natural approaches to Blemishes and Scars, graded by evidence — including Azelaic acid, Tea Tree Oil and Silicone Gel Sheets.
13 options · 2 graded A · 1 graded B · 10 traditional or ungraded
What's going on with your skin right now?
I want to fade the dark marks blemishes leave behind
Azelaic acid
Supported by controlled trials· Centuries of traditional use (Evidence grade A · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleMay help with spots and the marks they leave
- Why this matches
- Azelaic acid is one of the few topicals studied for both active blemishes and the dark marks they can leave behind, making it a reasonable option for fading discoloration.
- Why try it
- A naturally occurring acid that may help clear breakouts and reduce hyperpigmentation by calming inflammation and unclogging pores; it has also been studied for melasma.
- Dose or use
- Apply a thin layer of cream, gel or foam to affected areas once or twice daily.
- Time to results
- Typically 8-12 weeks
- Key study
- Clinical studies support topical azelaic acid for acne and for hyperpigmentation, including melasma, with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and pore-clearing effects reported.
- Caution
- May cause tingling, dryness or mild stinging at first; patch test and reduce frequency if irritation persists.
Retinol (Vitamin A Topical)
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleVitamin A topical that boosts cell turnover
- Why this matches
- For smoothing texture and old marks, topical retinol speeds skin cell turnover and helps remodel the skin's surface over time.
- Why try it
- Retinol is a topical form of vitamin A studied for reducing acne, fading hyperpigmentation and improving texture by increasing cell turnover and collagen.
- Dose or use
- Apply a pea-sized amount at night a few times weekly to start, building up as tolerated; always use sunscreen by day.
- Time to results
- Typically 8-12 weeks or longer
- Key study
- Topical retinol and retinoids are well studied for acne and hyperpigmentation and for improving skin texture through increased cell turnover.
- Caution
- Can cause dryness, peeling and irritation; avoid during pregnancy and introduce slowly.
Vitamin C Topical
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleTopical antioxidant that fades dark spots
- Why this matches
- For the marks left behind after blemishes, topical vitamin C is applied directly to the skin to lighten dark spots and even out tone.
- Why try it
- Topical vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an antioxidant studied for lightening hyperpigmentation and evening skin tone.
- Dose or use
- Apply a serum to clean skin in the morning and follow with sunscreen; follow product labeling for strength.
- Time to results
- Typically 8-12 weeks
- Key study
- Topical vitamin C has been studied for hyperpigmentation, with reported improvements in dark spots and tone with regular use.
- Caution
- Can irritate sensitive skin and oxidizes over time; patch test and store away from light and air.
Niacinamide (also known as nicotinamide) lotion or serum
Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · No traditional record)Topical vitamin B3 studied for uneven tone
- Why this matches
- Niacinamide is a topical form of vitamin B3 studied for improving uneven tone, redness and the look of pores, a good fit for fading post-blemish marks.
- Why try it
- It's a well-studied skincare ingredient that supports the skin barrier and can help even out discoloration and refine the appearance of pores.
- Dose or use
- Apply a thin layer once or twice daily; products are commonly 2-5% niacinamide, while 10%+ can irritate some skin.
- Time to results
- Typically 4-8 weeks
- Key study
- Topical niacinamide has been studied in human skin for uneven tone and hyperpigmentation, with reported improvements in tone and barrier support.
- Caution
- Patch test first; discontinue if irritation occurs.
I'm calming active breakouts and inflamed blemishes
Azelaic acid
Supported by controlled trials· Centuries of traditional use (Evidence grade A · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleMay help with spots and the marks they leave
- Why this matches
- Azelaic acid is one of the few topicals studied for both active blemishes and the dark marks they can leave behind, making it a reasonable option for fading discoloration.
- Why try it
- A naturally occurring acid that may help clear breakouts and reduce hyperpigmentation by calming inflammation and unclogging pores; it has also been studied for melasma.
- Dose or use
- Apply a thin layer of cream, gel or foam to affected areas once or twice daily.
- Time to results
- Typically 8-12 weeks
- Key study
- Clinical studies support topical azelaic acid for acne and for hyperpigmentation, including melasma, with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and pore-clearing effects reported.
- Caution
- May cause tingling, dryness or mild stinging at first; patch test and reduce frequency if irritation persists.
Tea Tree Oil
Supported by controlled trials (Evidence grade A · No traditional record)Topical antimicrobial studied for mild acne
- Why this matches
- Tea tree oil is a topical antimicrobial that small human trials have studied for mild-to-moderate breakouts, where it can reduce inflamed spots.
- Why try it
- Applied to blemishes it targets acne-associated bacteria and inflammation; small trials support a modest benefit, gentler but slower than stronger acne products.
- Dose or use
- Dilute to 1-5% in a carrier oil or use a pre-formulated product; apply to blemishes with a cotton swab 1-2x daily.
- Time to results
- Typically 2-4 weeks
- Key study
- Small human trials of topical tea tree oil in mild-to-moderate acne report fewer inflammatory lesions; it tends to work more slowly than benzoyl peroxide but with less irritation. Larger confirmation is limited.
- Caution
- Never use undiluted; keep away from eyes; not for internal use.
LI11 (Quchi) - Large Intestine 11
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleTCM point linked to inflammatory skin
- Why this matches
- Among acupressure points LI11 is the one most linked to inflammatory skin, making it a fitting support while breakouts are active.
- Why try it
- In traditional Chinese medicine LI11 is used to clear heat and calm inflammation, and its indications name inflammatory skin conditions.
- Dose or use
- Press firmly for 2-3 min on each arm, 1-2x daily, located at the outer end of the elbow crease when the arm is bent.
- Time to results
- Typically several weeks of consistent use
- Key study
- Traditionally used to clear heat and inflammation; its use for skin complaints comes from traditional practice rather than controlled acne trials.
- Caution
- Avoid strong stimulation during pregnancy; skip over broken or irritated skin.
LI4 (Hegu) - Large Intestine 4
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleTCM point used for the face and clearing heat
- Why this matches
- LI4 is a general-purpose point traditionally used for head-and-face complaints and for what TCM calls clearing heat; some practitioners press it as a supporting point during breakouts.
- Why try it
- In traditional Chinese medicine LI4 is valued as a versatile point for the face and for clearing what's described as heat, used as general support rather than a targeted acne treatment.
- Dose or use
- Press firmly 2-3 min, both sides, 1-2x daily — located in the webbing between thumb and index finger.
- Time to results
- Typically several weeks of consistent use
- Key study
- Traditionally used in this way; this specific use for blemishes has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
- Caution
- Avoid during pregnancy — traditionally contraindicated.
Zinc
Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · No traditional record)Essential mineral that supports skin healing
- Why this matches
- Zinc is an essential mineral involved in wound healing and immune regulation, and oral zinc is one of the better-supported nutritional approaches for calming inflammatory breakouts.
- Why try it
- Taken by mouth, zinc supports the skin's healing and helps regulate the inflammation behind active blemishes.
- Dose or use
- 15–30 mg daily with food; follow product labeling for specific formulas.
- Time to results
- Typically 4-8 weeks
- Key study
- Controlled trials of oral zinc for acne exist and show a modest benefit for inflammatory breakouts; it is among the better-supported nutritional options, though generally milder than standard acne medicines.
- Caution
- Long-term high doses may deplete copper; do not exceed 40 mg/day without practitioner guidance.
I'm trying to flatten a raised, thickened or keloid scar
Silicone Gel Sheets
Supported by smaller clinical studies· Centuries of traditional use (Evidence grade B · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleBest-supported self-care for raised scars
- Why this matches
- For a raised, thickened or keloid scar, silicone gel sheets are the most established self-applied option, worn over the scar to soften and flatten it.
- Why try it
- Medical-grade silicone sheets are widely used to reduce the height, redness and hardness of raised (hypertrophic) and keloid scars over time.
- Dose or use
- Apply a clean sheet over the healed scar for several hours daily, often 12+ hours, and use consistently for weeks to months.
- Time to results
- Typically 8-12 weeks or longer
- Key study
- Silicone sheeting is a standard non-invasive approach for hypertrophic and keloid scars, reported to reduce scar height, redness and firmness with regular use.
- Caution
- For intact, fully healed skin only, never open wounds; remove if a rash or irritation develops.
Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica)
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleHerb studied for wound healing and scars
- Why this matches
- For softening older scars and uneven texture, Gotu Kola is a classic botanical whose compounds support collagen and skin remodeling.
- Why try it
- Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) has been studied for promoting wound healing and reducing scar formation, likely by boosting collagen synthesis.
- Dose or use
- Available as a topical cream or gel and as an oral extract; follow product labeling and apply or take consistently.
- Time to results
- Typically 6-12 weeks
- Key study
- Studies of Gotu Kola report improvements in wound healing and reduced scarring, attributed to enhanced collagen synthesis; evidence is promising but still emerging.
- Caution
- Patch test topical forms; discuss oral use with a practitioner if pregnant or taking medication.
I want to support clearer skin from the inside out
Zinc Deficiency
Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised)Recognised traditional useLow zinc can show up as skin and healing issues
- Why this matches
- Supporting clearer skin from the inside can mean checking for a zinc gap, since delayed healing and skin problems like acne are early signs of low zinc.
- Why try it
- Zinc is essential for wound healing, cell division and immune balance, so a deficiency can contribute to breakouts and slow-healing skin.
- Dose or use
- Prioritize zinc-rich foods such as shellfish, meat, seeds and legumes; consider testing before supplementing long term.
- Time to results
- Typically several weeks once intake improves
- Key study
- Skin problems such as acne and delayed wound healing are recognized early signs of zinc deficiency, reflecting zinc's role in skin repair and cell division.
- Caution
- Don't exceed about 40 mg/day without guidance, as too much zinc depletes copper.
ST36 (Zusanli)
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleSupports digestive and immune balance
- Why this matches
- Traditionally used to strengthen overall vitality, making it a good fit for a whole-body skin support approach.
- Why try it
- Traditionally pressed to support digestive health, which is linked in traditional systems to clearer skin.
- Dose or use
- Press firmly 2-3 min, both sides, 1-2x daily — located four finger-widths below the kneecap, just outside the shin bone.
- Time to results
- Typically several weeks of consistent use
- Key study
- Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
- Caution
- Avoid deep pressure during pregnancy without practitioner guidance.
Zinc
Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · No traditional record)Essential mineral that supports skin healing
- Why this matches
- Zinc is an essential mineral involved in wound healing and immune regulation, and oral zinc is one of the better-supported nutritional approaches for calming inflammatory breakouts.
- Why try it
- Taken by mouth, zinc supports the skin's healing and helps regulate the inflammation behind active blemishes.
- Dose or use
- 15–30 mg daily with food; follow product labeling for specific formulas.
- Time to results
- Typically 4-8 weeks
- Key study
- Controlled trials of oral zinc for acne exist and show a modest benefit for inflammatory breakouts; it is among the better-supported nutritional options, though generally milder than standard acne medicines.
- Caution
- Long-term high doses may deplete copper; do not exceed 40 mg/day without practitioner guidance.
I'm smoothing old scars, pits and uneven texture
Retinol (Vitamin A Topical)
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleVitamin A topical that boosts cell turnover
- Why this matches
- For smoothing texture and old marks, topical retinol speeds skin cell turnover and helps remodel the skin's surface over time.
- Why try it
- Retinol is a topical form of vitamin A studied for reducing acne, fading hyperpigmentation and improving texture by increasing cell turnover and collagen.
- Dose or use
- Apply a pea-sized amount at night a few times weekly to start, building up as tolerated; always use sunscreen by day.
- Time to results
- Typically 8-12 weeks or longer
- Key study
- Topical retinol and retinoids are well studied for acne and hyperpigmentation and for improving skin texture through increased cell turnover.
- Caution
- Can cause dryness, peeling and irritation; avoid during pregnancy and introduce slowly.
Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica)
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleHerb studied for wound healing and scars
- Why this matches
- For softening older scars and uneven texture, Gotu Kola is a classic botanical whose compounds support collagen and skin remodeling.
- Why try it
- Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) has been studied for promoting wound healing and reducing scar formation, likely by boosting collagen synthesis.
- Dose or use
- Available as a topical cream or gel and as an oral extract; follow product labeling and apply or take consistently.
- Time to results
- Typically 6-12 weeks
- Key study
- Studies of Gotu Kola report improvements in wound healing and reduced scarring, attributed to enhanced collagen synthesis; evidence is promising but still emerging.
- Caution
- Patch test topical forms; discuss oral use with a practitioner if pregnant or taking medication.
Rosehip Seed Oil
Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · No traditional record)Traditionally used to soften and fade scars
- Why this matches
- Rosehip seed oil is traditionally used topically to support skin regeneration and reduce the appearance of scarring.
- Why try it
- Traditionally valued for its natural fatty acid content, which is thought to nourish and help remodel scar tissue over time.
- Dose or use
- Apply a few drops to clean skin and massage gently into scar areas 1-2x daily.
- Time to results
- Typically 6-12 weeks
- Key study
- Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
- Caution
- Patch test first; may not be suitable for those prone to comedones — monitor skin response.
How would you rather care for your skin?
I'd rather use daily serums and spot treatments on my skin
Azelaic acid
Supported by controlled trials· Centuries of traditional use (Evidence grade A · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleMay help with spots and the marks they leave
- Why this matches
- Azelaic acid is one of the few topicals studied for both active blemishes and the dark marks they can leave behind, making it a reasonable option for fading discoloration.
- Why try it
- A naturally occurring acid that may help clear breakouts and reduce hyperpigmentation by calming inflammation and unclogging pores; it has also been studied for melasma.
- Dose or use
- Apply a thin layer of cream, gel or foam to affected areas once or twice daily.
- Time to results
- Typically 8-12 weeks
- Key study
- Clinical studies support topical azelaic acid for acne and for hyperpigmentation, including melasma, with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and pore-clearing effects reported.
- Caution
- May cause tingling, dryness or mild stinging at first; patch test and reduce frequency if irritation persists.
Tea Tree Oil
Supported by controlled trials (Evidence grade A · No traditional record)Topical antimicrobial studied for mild acne
- Why this matches
- Tea tree oil is a topical antimicrobial that small human trials have studied for mild-to-moderate breakouts, where it can reduce inflamed spots.
- Why try it
- Applied to blemishes it targets acne-associated bacteria and inflammation; small trials support a modest benefit, gentler but slower than stronger acne products.
- Dose or use
- Dilute to 1-5% in a carrier oil or use a pre-formulated product; apply to blemishes with a cotton swab 1-2x daily.
- Time to results
- Typically 2-4 weeks
- Key study
- Small human trials of topical tea tree oil in mild-to-moderate acne report fewer inflammatory lesions; it tends to work more slowly than benzoyl peroxide but with less irritation. Larger confirmation is limited.
- Caution
- Never use undiluted; keep away from eyes; not for internal use.
Retinol (Vitamin A Topical)
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleVitamin A topical that boosts cell turnover
- Why this matches
- For smoothing texture and old marks, topical retinol speeds skin cell turnover and helps remodel the skin's surface over time.
- Why try it
- Retinol is a topical form of vitamin A studied for reducing acne, fading hyperpigmentation and improving texture by increasing cell turnover and collagen.
- Dose or use
- Apply a pea-sized amount at night a few times weekly to start, building up as tolerated; always use sunscreen by day.
- Time to results
- Typically 8-12 weeks or longer
- Key study
- Topical retinol and retinoids are well studied for acne and hyperpigmentation and for improving skin texture through increased cell turnover.
- Caution
- Can cause dryness, peeling and irritation; avoid during pregnancy and introduce slowly.
Vitamin C Topical
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleTopical antioxidant that fades dark spots
- Why this matches
- For the marks left behind after blemishes, topical vitamin C is applied directly to the skin to lighten dark spots and even out tone.
- Why try it
- Topical vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an antioxidant studied for lightening hyperpigmentation and evening skin tone.
- Dose or use
- Apply a serum to clean skin in the morning and follow with sunscreen; follow product labeling for strength.
- Time to results
- Typically 8-12 weeks
- Key study
- Topical vitamin C has been studied for hyperpigmentation, with reported improvements in dark spots and tone with regular use.
- Caution
- Can irritate sensitive skin and oxidizes over time; patch test and store away from light and air.
Niacinamide (also known as nicotinamide) lotion or serum
Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · No traditional record)Topical vitamin B3 studied for uneven tone
- Why this matches
- Niacinamide is a topical form of vitamin B3 studied for improving uneven tone, redness and the look of pores, a good fit for fading post-blemish marks.
- Why try it
- It's a well-studied skincare ingredient that supports the skin barrier and can help even out discoloration and refine the appearance of pores.
- Dose or use
- Apply a thin layer once or twice daily; products are commonly 2-5% niacinamide, while 10%+ can irritate some skin.
- Time to results
- Typically 4-8 weeks
- Key study
- Topical niacinamide has been studied in human skin for uneven tone and hyperpigmentation, with reported improvements in tone and barrier support.
- Caution
- Patch test first; discontinue if irritation occurs.
I'd rather work directly on scars with oils, sheets and massage
Silicone Gel Sheets
Supported by smaller clinical studies· Centuries of traditional use (Evidence grade B · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleBest-supported self-care for raised scars
- Why this matches
- For a raised, thickened or keloid scar, silicone gel sheets are the most established self-applied option, worn over the scar to soften and flatten it.
- Why try it
- Medical-grade silicone sheets are widely used to reduce the height, redness and hardness of raised (hypertrophic) and keloid scars over time.
- Dose or use
- Apply a clean sheet over the healed scar for several hours daily, often 12+ hours, and use consistently for weeks to months.
- Time to results
- Typically 8-12 weeks or longer
- Key study
- Silicone sheeting is a standard non-invasive approach for hypertrophic and keloid scars, reported to reduce scar height, redness and firmness with regular use.
- Caution
- For intact, fully healed skin only, never open wounds; remove if a rash or irritation develops.
Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica)
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleHerb studied for wound healing and scars
- Why this matches
- For softening older scars and uneven texture, Gotu Kola is a classic botanical whose compounds support collagen and skin remodeling.
- Why try it
- Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) has been studied for promoting wound healing and reducing scar formation, likely by boosting collagen synthesis.
- Dose or use
- Available as a topical cream or gel and as an oral extract; follow product labeling and apply or take consistently.
- Time to results
- Typically 6-12 weeks
- Key study
- Studies of Gotu Kola report improvements in wound healing and reduced scarring, attributed to enhanced collagen synthesis; evidence is promising but still emerging.
- Caution
- Patch test topical forms; discuss oral use with a practitioner if pregnant or taking medication.
Rosehip Seed Oil
Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · No traditional record)Traditionally used to soften and fade scars
- Why this matches
- Rosehip seed oil is traditionally used topically to support skin regeneration and reduce the appearance of scarring.
- Why try it
- Traditionally valued for its natural fatty acid content, which is thought to nourish and help remodel scar tissue over time.
- Dose or use
- Apply a few drops to clean skin and massage gently into scar areas 1-2x daily.
- Time to results
- Typically 6-12 weeks
- Key study
- Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
- Caution
- Patch test first; may not be suitable for those prone to comedones — monitor skin response.
I'd rather feed my skin through food and supplements
Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica)
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleHerb studied for wound healing and scars
- Why this matches
- For softening older scars and uneven texture, Gotu Kola is a classic botanical whose compounds support collagen and skin remodeling.
- Why try it
- Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) has been studied for promoting wound healing and reducing scar formation, likely by boosting collagen synthesis.
- Dose or use
- Available as a topical cream or gel and as an oral extract; follow product labeling and apply or take consistently.
- Time to results
- Typically 6-12 weeks
- Key study
- Studies of Gotu Kola report improvements in wound healing and reduced scarring, attributed to enhanced collagen synthesis; evidence is promising but still emerging.
- Caution
- Patch test topical forms; discuss oral use with a practitioner if pregnant or taking medication.
Zinc Deficiency
Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use recognised)Recognised traditional useLow zinc can show up as skin and healing issues
- Why this matches
- Supporting clearer skin from the inside can mean checking for a zinc gap, since delayed healing and skin problems like acne are early signs of low zinc.
- Why try it
- Zinc is essential for wound healing, cell division and immune balance, so a deficiency can contribute to breakouts and slow-healing skin.
- Dose or use
- Prioritize zinc-rich foods such as shellfish, meat, seeds and legumes; consider testing before supplementing long term.
- Time to results
- Typically several weeks once intake improves
- Key study
- Skin problems such as acne and delayed wound healing are recognized early signs of zinc deficiency, reflecting zinc's role in skin repair and cell division.
- Caution
- Don't exceed about 40 mg/day without guidance, as too much zinc depletes copper.
Zinc
Not yet assessed· We have not reviewed the literature for this one (Evidence grade not assigned · No traditional record)Essential mineral that supports skin healing
- Why this matches
- Zinc is an essential mineral involved in wound healing and immune regulation, and oral zinc is one of the better-supported nutritional approaches for calming inflammatory breakouts.
- Why try it
- Taken by mouth, zinc supports the skin's healing and helps regulate the inflammation behind active blemishes.
- Dose or use
- 15–30 mg daily with food; follow product labeling for specific formulas.
- Time to results
- Typically 4-8 weeks
- Key study
- Controlled trials of oral zinc for acne exist and show a modest benefit for inflammatory breakouts; it is among the better-supported nutritional options, though generally milder than standard acne medicines.
- Caution
- Long-term high doses may deplete copper; do not exceed 40 mg/day without practitioner guidance.
I'd rather try gentle acupressure from traditional practice
LI11 (Quchi) - Large Intestine 11
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleTCM point linked to inflammatory skin
- Why this matches
- Among acupressure points LI11 is the one most linked to inflammatory skin, making it a fitting support while breakouts are active.
- Why try it
- In traditional Chinese medicine LI11 is used to clear heat and calm inflammation, and its indications name inflammatory skin conditions.
- Dose or use
- Press firmly for 2-3 min on each arm, 1-2x daily, located at the outer end of the elbow crease when the arm is bent.
- Time to results
- Typically several weeks of consistent use
- Key study
- Traditionally used to clear heat and inflammation; its use for skin complaints comes from traditional practice rather than controlled acne trials.
- Caution
- Avoid strong stimulation during pregnancy; skip over broken or irritated skin.
LI4 (Hegu) - Large Intestine 4
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleTCM point used for the face and clearing heat
- Why this matches
- LI4 is a general-purpose point traditionally used for head-and-face complaints and for what TCM calls clearing heat; some practitioners press it as a supporting point during breakouts.
- Why try it
- In traditional Chinese medicine LI4 is valued as a versatile point for the face and for clearing what's described as heat, used as general support rather than a targeted acne treatment.
- Dose or use
- Press firmly 2-3 min, both sides, 1-2x daily — located in the webbing between thumb and index finger.
- Time to results
- Typically several weeks of consistent use
- Key study
- Traditionally used in this way; this specific use for blemishes has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
- Caution
- Avoid during pregnancy — traditionally contraindicated.
ST36 (Zusanli)
Centuries of traditional use· Human evidence not yet assessed (Evidence grade not assigned · Traditional use long-standing)Long-standing traditional stapleSupports digestive and immune balance
- Why this matches
- Traditionally used to strengthen overall vitality, making it a good fit for a whole-body skin support approach.
- Why try it
- Traditionally pressed to support digestive health, which is linked in traditional systems to clearer skin.
- Dose or use
- Press firmly 2-3 min, both sides, 1-2x daily — located four finger-widths below the kneecap, just outside the shin bone.
- Time to results
- Typically several weeks of consistent use
- Key study
- Traditionally used for this condition; this specific use has not been confirmed in controlled clinical trials.
- Caution
- Avoid deep pressure during pregnancy without practitioner guidance.
Evidence grades describe the strength of published research for Blemishes and Scars, not a promise of results. Nothing here is medical advice — talk to your clinician before starting anything, especially alongside prescription medication.