Forget Filler And Botox – Here’s Why You Need To Try Ear Seeding

There's no doubt that holistic beauty practices are gaining traction in the mainstream. Whether it's down to the fact that we're a generation continually looking for escapism from today's unstable economic climate, political unrest and worldwide environmental issues- the wellness industry is certainly booming. From CBD facials to crystal-infused water bottles, there's no denying that the once 'woo woo' practices of Gwyneth Paltrow are now not just mainstream - they’re big business.

If you're not yet acquainted, allow me to introduce you to ear seeds. Penélope Cruz and Kate Moss are apparently fans, but what on earth are they - and do they really work? Yes, if a recently viral TikTok video is anything to go by. In a post amassing 12.3 million views and counting, creator Sarah Palmyra revealed the before and after of ear seeding sessions. The results? Quite remarkable. Palmyra's face appeared transformed within half an hour. Her skin appeared brighter, her cheeks plumper and her eyes brighter. The puffiness around her eyes? Gone! She looked healthier and reinvigorated. And all off the back of some little studs applied to her ears? It’s impressive stuff. So, what’s the story?

Watch: The Viral TikTok Ear Seeding Video

What Is Ear Seeding?

'Ear seeding is similar to acupuncture but without the needle’ says Ada Ooi, Integrative Wellness Practitioner and Founder of 001 London.

Tiny gold-plated 'seeds' are placed on certain energetic points of the ear, creating a continuous, long-lasting but pain-free compression. Unlike acupuncture, they're perfect for needle-phobes.

Sounds bizarre. It turns out, however, that the practice of auriculotherapy- as it’s known - has been around for years in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It's similar to reflexology, in that it works on the principle that certain areas of the ears mirror the entire body- and by stimulating these different zones, you can influence the corresponding organ or body part.

Why Ear Seeding?

‘In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), balance is key to overall well being,’ says Charlotte Yau, Founder of Muihood. ‘That’s where ear seeds come in, a centuries-old healing practice that works with your body's energy pathways to restore harmony from the inside out.'

According to TCM, the ear is a microsystem of the entire body, containing hundreds of acupressure points that correspond to different organs and energy channels.

‘When Qi (vital energy) becomes blocked or stagnant, it can lead to stress, pain and imbalances. By applying gentle pressure with ear seeds, you can activate these acupoints, stimulate Qi flow and promote natural healing.’ says Yau.

Think of them as tiny, non-invasive stimulators of acupuncture points in the ear. By placing them on specific meridian points, it is thought they can ease stress, anxiety and emotional tension, support organ function and enhance overall wellbeing. In turn, this can help with swelling, helping to lift, plump and brighten tired skin - all with just a peel, a poke and a press.

Shop: Muihood 24K Gold Plated Ear Seed Kit

That’s Great, But Why Gold?

‘Gold has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries due to its energetic properties,’ explains Yau. ‘It promotes circulation, supporting the movement of blood and energy throughout the body. It also helps balance Yin and Yang, helping to regulate emotions and manage stress levels.

However, Ooi suggests that the efficacy of this technique mostly lies in the stimulation action itself.

‘The ancients used seeds and we've more recently developed them into different types of metals, which all work. But if you prefer to add a bit of glam - and why not - choose those with gold or silver metal, or even with crystals too.’

Ear Seeding: Our Verdict

Rachael Martin, Beauty Director says:

'I was a little apprehensive about trying these at home - I’ve got clumsy fingers and initially found them a bit fiddly, but I eventually got the hang of it. Using tweezers help and once I did, they were actually quite easy to apply.

Each pack contains 20 gold-plated seeds, each encased in a clear adhesive sticker. You simply peel them off and press them onto your ear. While it shouldn’t be painful, you should feel a definite pressure when applying them properly- your ear may go slightly red at first.

Thankfully, the pack includes a handy diagram, which helped me choose pressure points based on the areas where I felt I needed a bit of support. If applied correctly, they can last up to a week- which I think is pretty impressive - and you genuinely forget you’re wearing them… apart from the occasional glimpse of your new gold-plated jewels in the mirror!

But the big question. How did I feel after wearing them for a while? You know what? Slightly less anxious, actually. I also think my face looked a little less puffy. Okay, not quite Botox or filler levels of lifting and smoothing prowess, but I like to think they made a difference. Watch this space- I’ll keep testing, but I’m feeling optimistic...'

Rachael Martin is Grazia’s Beauty Director. Originally from Northern Ireland, she studied English Literature at Queen’s University Belfast, before moving to London to pursue a career in magazine journalism

Chloe Burcham is a freelance health and beauty editor and contributes regularly to publications including Grazia, STYLIST, Women's Health, Refinery29