Sis, you stick needles in your face? But, why?!
What is it?
Cosmetic Acupuncture provides clients with an individualized treatment plan that is created by taking into account the client’s personal cosmetic concerns and overall health condition. Often used preventatively by younger clients and those that seek to maintain their youthful glow. It can be used adjunctively with aesthetic treatments such as botox*, and cosmetic surgery*, or as an alternative to these procedures.
The Process
Cosmetic Acupuncture involves the insertion of hair-thin acupuncture needles into points along specific meridians–channels that connect the organs to qi, that correspond to your individual diagnosis. Extra points are often added to treat specific wrinkles and tone muscles for that lifted look.
How does it work?
Cosmetic acupuncture works by creating microtraumas to the underlying treatment area which stimulates the body’s immune system to repair the area by bringing in nutrients and growth factors. Another way to understand this process would be the micro-tears that we create in muscles when we exercise. The body works to repair the tears by rebuilding a resilient and more defined muscle.
During the healing process, the 2 most important rejuvenative factors collagen and elastin are produced². Collagen is a structural protein made by the body that keeps skin firm and wrinkle-free. Elastin is another key structural protein responsible for keeping your skin supple as it helps skin regain its shape after manipulation. As we age and come into contact with environmental hazards like the sun, collagen and elastin production decline. This is why administering a modality–like acupuncture, that stimulates the production of these two proteins is vital for rejuvenation.
Does it hurt?
I want to say, no, but a simple “no” would annoy me if I were asking the question so I will describe the sensation you may feel as a gentle pinch. Most patients do not experience any negative sensation and often take a nap once the needles are placed. Nevertheless, there are times when you may be more sensitive for instance during periods of excessive stress or illness, and when you are already in pain like during your period, or a headache or migraine.
4 Benefits of Cosmetic Acupuncture
Increase Facial Muscle Tone¹
Acupuncture unblocks stagnant blood flow, therefore, allowing blood and qi to move into the treatment area. This movement of nutrients and energy into the face stimulates muscle tone for a lifted look and glowing complexion.
Reduced Facial Edema¹
Similar to the above, when unblocking the meridians allowing qi and blood to flow smoothly, the body is able to detox efficiently as bodily fluids are flowing smoothly. This also means your organs of detoxification like the liver and kidneys must be healthy. Bonus: Cosmetic Acupuncture can be combined with facial cupping and facial gua sha for added lymphatic drainage.
Improved Skin Tone and Texture¹
Acupuncture stimulates nutrients and growth factors to move into the underlying treatment area which promotes a healthy complexion. It may also assist with texture and pigmentation concerns like dry skin, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Improvements in Overall Health
Because Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a holistic approach, your provider may choose points that are not localized to the face, neck, and scalp but incorporate body points as this strategy aims to restore overall wellness which plays a major role in rejuvenation. In TCM, in addition to the tongue and pulse, the eyes, skin, and hair are examined when making a diagnosis as they are a reflection of organ function.
Contraindications
- Bleeding Disorders.
- Menstruation.
- Pregnancy.
- Diabetics.
This is not a complete list of contraindications. As always speak with your provider regarding your personal healthcare concerns.
Expectations
Cosmetic Acupuncture is a safe, holistic, all-natural approach to rejuvenation. It provides clients with the subtle beauty enhancements they are looking to achieve with dedicated treatments and it improves overall health. Do not expect the instant gratification that comes from botox, fillers, and cosmetic surgery from cosmetic acupuncture. Lastly, beauty beings from within–that is to say do not ignore the major role that diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management play in your health and the aging process.
*If you are interested in cosmetic acupuncture, in conjunction with botox, or cosmetic surgery, please speak with your healthcare provider regarding how to do so safely.
Let me know in the comments below if you’ve had cosmetic acupuncture or are now considering it.
Resources
- Barrett JB. Acupuncture and Facial Rejuvenation. OUP Academic. https://academic.oup.com/asj/article/25/4/419/190569. Published July 2005.
- Facial Acupuncture. Jungsacupuncture. https://www.jungsacupuncture.com/beauty-and-diet.
