Cosmetic acupuncture uses Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory and techniques to enhance wellbeing and lifestyle in order to promote and maintain a reduction in the signs of aging. It is a medical acupuncture treatment using acupuncture points on the body, in the ears and on the face to have a beneficial effect on the skin and complexion of the face.
Facial acupuncture creates micro-punctures to the skin surface. As a consequence, the repair process releases numerous growth and healing factors that stimulate new collagen to be deposited under the surface of the skin. It also stimulates and enhances blood and lymph flow in the face, both of which can reduce the appearance of bags, lines and wrinkles.
From a TCM point of view, the underlying objective of this treatment is designed to improve the function of organs and balance their relationship with each other in order to improve circulation of blood and body fluids, the absorption of nutrients and excretions of waste thereby positively influencing general health.
A lifting effect is created within the body with a focus on the face. The use of specialist needles and techniques accentuates these results and also reduces the risk of bruising and discomfort.
Yes, it is best practiced by a suitably qualified and insured acupuncture professional. Steve has practiced acupuncture for numerous years, is a member of the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP) and trained in cosmetic acupuncture by The College of Chinese Medicine.
Some of the most common results found with a cosmetic acupuncture treatment are as follows:
The number and frequency of treatments will affect the results. Everyone is different and will respond differently to facial acupuncture. These treatments are not a quick-fix to wrinkles and facial scarring and will require a certain number of treatments before an effect is seen. However, after the initial acupuncture sessions the effects can last from a few weeks to a couple of months. For best results regular visits are recommended.
The effects of your cosmetic acupuncture will also be affected by:
Yes, it’s best to leave having facial acupuncture for 2 weeks after your most recent botox injections. Acupuncture may slightly speed up the metabolism of the botox thus you must let your facial acupuncturist know and they can avoid the areas where you have had botox.
Acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles into the skin and muscles of the body. Therefore there is a certain low level of pain that can be experienced. Sometimes the needle insertion is not felt at all and at some points you will feel a sharp scratch. If a needle insertion is too sore just ask for it to be removed.
Once the needles are in they are usually painless, although it’s not unusual for the area to feel hot due to increased blood flow into the area. The main risk of facial acupuncture is that it can cause slight bruising, however this is rare and care is taken to avoid capillaries on the face. It is best not to have the procedure done within 10 days of a special event in case there is slight bruising.
Facial acupuncture is suitable for anyone over 18. It can help people with acne scarring and other skin problems and can also be used for nourishing and hydrating the skin. It is also suitable when you feel that you are unhappy with the lines and wrinkles on your face and this is obviously a personal decision.
Remove make up and cleanse your face prior to your appointment. For optimum results you can combine your cosmetic acupuncture with a facial treatment afterwards.
A course of 6 sessions is recommended to see an effect of the acupuncture, although some people do notice an immediate difference in the freshness and tone of their skin. After the initial 6 sessions monthly maintenance sessions are recommended for optimal and lasting effects.
