Cosmetic Acupuncture Services
Cosmetic acupuncture is a non-invasive treatment that involves using acupuncture to improve skin and fight the aging process. Sometimes referred to as an “acupuncture facelift” or “facial rejuvenation,” cosmetic acupuncture often is used as an alternative to surgical facelifts and other conventional procedures said to reverse signs of aging in the skin.
Proponents claim that cosmetic acupuncture can help reduce wrinkles, diminish fine lines, remove age spots, and lift droopy eyelids. Most courses of cosmetic acupuncture treatment involve 10 or more sessions, as well as additional sessions for the maintenance of results.
Like traditional acupuncture, it involves strategically inserting ultra-thin, sterilized needles into different areas of the skin with the aim of stimulating blood flow and balancing the body’s Qi, (which, when translated, means “vital energy” in Traditional Chinese Medicine). Though the complexion is typically the target area for results, the process utilizes acupuncture points around the face and body.
Cosmetic acupuncture can enhance the production of collagen via micro-injury to the skin, increase blood flow, stimulate immune responses that reduce inflammation, and activate any number of functional points that have various responses, like reducing jaw tension or relieving anxiety.
What’s a cosmetic acupuncture session like? ▼
At its most basic, an appointment may start with your practitioner asking about your digestion, menstruation, sleep, energy levels, and diet to get a better sense of how your current physical and mental state is affecting your complexion — for example, puffiness, fine lines, and acne.
From there, the acupuncturist will develop a treatment plan, mapping out where on the face and body the needles will be inserted and stay in place until removed. Enhanced treatments may involve facial cupping, gua sha, and more.
What are the benefits of cosmetic acupuncture? ▼
Improved Collagen Production
Facial acupuncture, specifically, is hypothesized to stimulate lymphatic drainage, and, therefore, increase blood flow to the face. This will support collagen production, which can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Reduced Acne
Acne-prone skin types looking to supplement their over-the-counter balms and creams might want to consider facial acupuncture. By encouraging lymphatic drainage, it may be aiding in the elimination of toxins that may contribute to breakouts.
Reduced Inflammation and Jaw Tension
Applying needles directly to specific acupuncture points helps to improve blood circulation and this can stimulate an immune response that can also reduce inflammation. It can also help to release trigger points in various muscles of the body like those found in the jaw.
Are there side effects after cosmetic acupuncture? ▼
Temporary worsening of symptoms, soreness, bruising, muscle twitching, and minor bleeding at needle sites are possible short-term side effects. Remedying these side effects might include the removal of the needles and/or applying direct pressure to bleeding areas (during the session).
How much does cosmetic acupuncture cost? ▼
Depending on the practice, your location, length of treatment, and whether or not other treatments are incorporated into your sessions, cosmetic acupuncture can cost anywhere from $100 to $500 per session.
Is cosmetic acupuncture a natural alternative to Botox? ▼
In a word, no. Cosmetic acupuncture doesn’t inhibit muscle contraction in the way that Botox does but rather aims to stimulate more blood flow to an area. In theory, it works through potentially stimulating levels of collagen which would make the skin plump and (could) reduce some fine lines and wrinkles.
That said, cosmetic acupuncture will take longer to show any results: Most cosmetic acupuncture treatments are meant to be taken in a series, generally in a group of 10. The effects of acupuncture are cumulative, so follow-up appointments are recommended.