Cosmetic acupuncture is safe and gentle facial needling with ultra-fine needles to boost microcirculation, collagen production, reduce fine lines or wrinkles & assist with healing/scar-fading. Depending on skin concerns, different points & needling depths will be selected on an individual basis to target specific concerns. Cosmetic acupuncture can also be used preventatively to maintain healthy skin & complexion.
Results are best combined with cleansing & facial Tuina & Guasha beforehand. Facial Tuina & Guasha is performed with 100% cold-pressed, virgin marula or rose-hip seed oil & is a gentle, calming therapy that can further brighten complexion, plump & hydrate skin, & improve lymphatic draining. Acupoints & meridians on both the face & head are additionally used to relieve head tension, eye strain & stress.
“How does cosmetic acupuncture work?”
Cosmetic acupuncture works in several different ways. For facial tone, points are stimulated by needles to either relax tight muscles (that can cause jaw bulking & wrinkles) or to tone-up weak muscles (that can cause facial sagging). For aging & dry skin, acupuncture draws Qi & blood to the face, improving circulation & encouraging skin cells to perform their natural functions such as skin-repair & cell growth, collagen production & organisation, maintaining moisture & a being an effective barrier. For scarring & skin damage, targeted areas are needled more densely to help break down damaged cells/tissue & promote cell-turnover. For acne, needles are aimed at the “root” of the acne to release heat/toxins & promote healing.
“How is cosmetic acupuncture different to other anti-aging treatments?”
Cosmetic acupuncture aims to promote natural skin cell functions, is minimally invasive & does not introduce foreign compounds to the skin/body. Unlike retinol/tretinoin & microneedling, it does not irritate/exfoliate the skin; thus, it is suitable for individuals with sensitive/dry skin, or individuals with weak/damaged skin-barrier.
Cosmetic acupuncture can also target multiple skin-concerns within the same treatment & can usually be performed concurrently with other types of skin treatments if necessary. Cosmetic acupuncture will generally not cause additional reddness or discomfort post-treatment.
“Is cosmetic acupuncture painful?”
Clients may sometimes feel a brief, small prick on needle insertion; once inserted, needles are not further-stimulated & are usually barely noticable on the face. Certain conditions (e.g. cystic acne) may feel a heaviness in a small area around needle that is not uncomfortable.
“How often do I need to have cosmetic acupuncture?”
Maintenance varies per individual. Once weekly/fortnightly treatments may benefit people with more numerous/severe skin concerns to start with. If used preventatively, once every 3-4 weeks may suffice.
Cosmetic acupuncture needles vs. regular acupuncture needle