Acupuncture for Eczema: How It Relieves Itching, Inflammation & Flare-Ups
Eczema can feel relentless; itching that won’t quit, inflamed skin that flares unpredictably, and a cycle that’s hard to break. In my NYC practice, eczema is a common condition I treat, using acupuncture to reduce itching, calm inflammation and help prevent recurring flare-ups.
What Causes Eczema? (Western + Chinese Medicine Perspective)
Eczema in Western biomedicine is a factor of immune system dysregulation, dietary sensitivities, stress, genetic factors and skin barrier deficiencies.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), eczema is often understood as a combination of heat, wind, dryness and dampness disrupting the skin. Acupuncture works by addressing these underlying patterns, helping the body regulate inflammation, reduce itching, and support long-term healing.
Best Acupuncture Points for Eczema:
Large Intestine 11 (Qūchí)
“Pool at the Crook”
Location: At the elbow, midway between Chǐzé (LU-5) and the lateral epicondyle, at the end of the transverse crease.
This is one of the most important points for clearing heat in the body. In eczema, heat often manifests as redness, inflammation, and irritation.
Functions:
Clears heat and cools the blood
Reduces inflammation
Eliminates wind (helping relieve itching)
Commonly used for a wide range of skin conditions
Spleen 10 (Xuèhăi)
“Sea of Blood”
Location: 2 cun above the upper border of the patella, on the bulge of the inner thigh muscle (vastus medialis).
Known as a major point for blood disorders, SP-10 is especially useful when eczema presents with redness, itching, or oozing.
Functions:
Cools and invigorates the blood
Clears heat-related skin inflammation
Eliminates wind to reduce itching
Dries dampness (helpful for weeping or oozing eczema)
Traditionally indicated for “itching of the whole body as if bitten by insects”
Urinary Bladder 40 (Wěizhōng)
“Middle of the Crook”
Location: At the back of the knee, in the center of the popliteal crease.
This point is known for clearing deeper levels of heat from the blood and is frequently used in chronic or stubborn skin conditions.
Functions:
Cools the blood and reduces systemic inflammation
Used for eczema, hives, and other skin disorders
Often paired with LI-11 to enhance results in treating skin conditions
Acupressure at Home
You can stimulate these points at home using firm pressure or slow, circular massage. Even a few minutes per point can help promote circulation, reduce itching, and support your body’s natural healing processes.
When to Seek Treatment for Eczema
In clinical practice, acupuncture is rarely used in isolation. Treatments address your specific pattern and will include supporting acupuncture points, internal herbal formulas, and topical therapies.
You may benefit from acupuncture if you are experiencing:
Persistent or chronic itching
Recurring eczema flare-ups
Symptoms that don’t fully resolve between episodes
Ongoing reliance on topical steroids
Ready to Treat Your Eczema at the Root?
If you’re dealing with chronic eczema and want a deeper, more holistic approach to healing, acupuncture and herbal medicine can help restore your skin balance from within.
Schedule an appointment today at my NYC acupuncture clinic to begin a personalized treatment plan designed to reduce flare-ups and calm your skin.
Deadman, P., Al-Khafaji, M., & Baker, K. (2016). A manual of acupuncture. Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications ; Distributed in North America by Eastland Press.
Continue learning how Chinese medicine approaches eczema:
