Cosmetic Acupuncture: Fight Signs of Aging by Healing From The Inside Out

What is COSMETIC ACUPUNCTURE?

Cosmetic acupuncture is the use of very fine needles, inserted into specific areas of the body to minimize signs of aging and skin damage such as wrinkles, puffiness, uneven complexion, age spots, sagging, or crepe skin.

Is cosmetic acupuncture effective?

Sometimes referred to as a “no surgery facelift”, cosmetic acupuncture can dramatically rejuvenate aging skin and reverse fine lines and wrinkles and tighten areas of sagging. Recent research shows the results of cosmetic acupuncture last almost twice as long as botox.

How does cosmetic acupuncture work?

The actions of cosmetic acupuncture is multi faceted. By using very fine needles to stimulate the dermis, this increases collagen production to reduce lines, wrinkles, and sagging. This process also drives increased blood circulation to problem areas as well as improved lymphatic drainage to revitalize and heal tissues. A series of treatments will provide improved facial muscle tone, skin elasticity and contraction. Acupuncture has a neuro-endocrine effect on the body, increasing the release of endorphins, the “feel good hormones,” minimizing the stress we wear on our face. Acupuncture supports better hormonal balance overall, supporting all the bodies vital functions. A shifting imbalance in hormones as we age are often contributing to aging signs in mature skin.

How much treatment will I need? How long before I see results?

A general course of cosmetic acupuncture is 12 sessions, usually given at once weekly intervals. Changes, such as a brighter and more even complexion and a decrease in puffiness can usually be seen following the first treatment. Lasting skin tightening and minimizing of wrinkles is usually seen after 5 sessions.

How long will my results last?

Most benefit from a full 12 treatment course of cosmetic acupuncture, then continue ‘tune up’ treatments throughout the year to maintain the changes. For minor maintenance, an initial course followed by a mini course of 3-6 visits 4-6 mos later is appropriate. For more intensive cases, a full 12 treatment course then repeating in 4 months may be recommended before cutting down on treatment frequency. Your practitioner will advise you on the treatment frequency that is best for your situation.

Can I use cosmetic acupuncture with botox?

A course of cosmetic acupuncture can be given prior to botox injection, but you must wait 4 weeks after botox to resume facial acupuncture. Some choose to alternate their use of cosmetic acupuncture treatments with botox. Let your practitioner know if you have recently received botox so your acupuncture sessions can be scheduled accordingly.

When is the best time to receive a course of cosmetic acupuncture?

Changes in season and life stressors can have an effect on your skin. Some choose to minimize this impact by starting treatment prior or during times of the year that their skin is most vulnerable. Others receive a course of treatment to look their best at a special event like a wedding or reunion. Anytime is appropriate to begin treatment, but let your practitioner know if you have a specific goal in mind.

Is cosmetic acupuncture only beneficial for aging signs?

No! Many who seek cosmetic acupuncture, both men and women, are indeed looking to correct signs of aging skin. The same approach can provide relief for a number of skin issues such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, or facial scars. Ask your practitioner if a course of cosmetic acupuncture could support your treatment goals.

What other therapies besides acupuncture are used in cosmetic treatments?

There are a variety of tools and therapies that support the effects of cosmetic acupuncture. At the end of every session you will receive specialized acupressure and lymphatic drainage massage of the face, head, and neck. This process assists the treated areas in letting go of metabolic cell waste and receiving new circulation.

Some cases benefit from the use of microcurrent during treatment. Microcurrent is the use of low level current to support facial toning and contouring. The addition of microcurrent increases the use of ATP, the major energy carrier for all cells in the body, which provides better cell function and skin healing.

The use of herbs, topical face masks and supplement formulas greatly support the effects of cosmetic acupuncture. Your practitioner may use herbal extracts during your session or prescribe you a custom supplement formula to support your treatment goals. For more information look for our post on herbal medicine coming soon!

For those who seek an intensive anti-aging program, a full integrative medicine consultation is available. Your lifestyle, medical history, stress, and diet will be reviewed to manage any factors having an effect on your well being and signs of aging. Comprehensive lab work will help to identify any contributing nutritional imbalances. See our page on integrative medicine for more information.

What are the possible side effects of cosmetic acupuncture?

Acupuncture, including cosmetic treatments, are largely safe when performed by a licensed practitioner. Because the face is very vascular, the most common side effect associated with cosmetic treatments is minor bruising. While this does not occur with everyone or with every treatment, for this reason it is not advised to receive cosmetic treatment within 3 days of a social event where you want to look your best.

Who should not receive cosmetic acupuncture?

The following is a list of conditions in which cosmetic acupuncture treatment is contraindicated. If you fall under one of these categories, you can still receive and benefit from acupuncture and other anti-aging therapies. Always let your practitioner know your full medical history, current medications including hormonal birth control and over the counter supplements, or any change in your health.

High Blood Pressure

During Pregnancy

During Active Cold or Flu

During Active Herpes Outbreak

During Active Allergic Reaction

Bleeding/Clotting disorders

Use of Blood Thinning or Anti-Platelet Medications

Frequent Migraines (more than every 3 mos)

Diabetes Mellitus

Some Pituitary Disorders

Heart Disorders or Pacemaker