Cosmetic Acupuncture

Natural support for healthy, radiant-looking skin

Cosmetic acupuncture is a specialized approach that combines the principles of traditional Chinese medicine with acupuncture treatment focused on the face and overall wellbeing.

Very fine needles are used at specific points on the face, scalp, neck and body to support circulation, relaxation, and healthy skin function. Treatment may also address factors such as stress, sleep, digestion, and overall health that can influence how you look and feel.

The goal is not to change your features. It is to support the health of your skin and help you look refreshed and well.

How cosmetic acupuncture works

The skin is part of the body as a whole, and its appearance can be influenced by circulation, muscle tension, stress, sleep, hormonal changes, and other aspects of health.

Facial acupuncture focuses on points in and around the face while also considering the rest of the body. Treatment may help support local circulation and relaxation of facial tension while addressing broader patterns that may be relevant to your overall wellbeing.

From a traditional Chinese medicine perspective, facial treatment is not considered separate from the rest of the body. Your treatment is therefore individualized rather than based solely on what you would like to change about your appearance.

What cosmetic acupuncture may help with

People seek cosmetic acupuncture for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Supporting healthy-looking skin
  • Improving the appearance of skin tone, complexion, and texture
  • Supporting a refreshed, more rested appearance
  • Easing facial tension and promoting a more relaxed appearance
  • Improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Improving the appearance of dark under-eye circles and puffiness
  • Supporting a more lifted-looking, refreshed appearance around the eyes
  • Improving the appearance of enlarged pores
  • Supporting a firmer, more lifted-looking appearance
  • Supporting healthier-looking skin in people with acne and blemishes

Results vary from person to person. Cosmetic acupuncture is not intended to provide the same results as injectable treatments, surgery, or other cosmetic procedures.

Some people also seek acupuncture after cosmetic procedures when they are experiencing unwanted facial tension or other changes in how their face feels or functions. Treatment is individualized based on the person’s circumstances.

More than a facial treatment

One of the differences between cosmetic acupuncture and a conventional facial treatment is the whole-person approach.

Your treatment may include facial acupuncture along with points elsewhere on the body based on your individual health and traditional Chinese medicine assessment.

For example, stress, poor sleep, digestive concerns, or hormonal changes may be relevant to how you’re feeling and how your skin looks. These factors can be considered as part of your treatment rather than focusing exclusively on the face.

A relaxing experience

Cosmetic acupuncture is also an opportunity to slow down and rest.

Many people find acupuncture relaxing, and taking time away from the demands of the day can be valuable in itself. Facial acupuncture may be combined with body points selected to support relaxation and overall wellbeing.

You don’t need to do anything during treatment. Once the needles are placed, you can simply rest.

What to expect

Your first visit begins with a discussion of your goals, health history, and any concerns you would like to address. A traditional Chinese medicine assessment is also used to help guide your treatment.

Appointments last approximately 1.5 hours, and treatment may include acupuncture points on the face as well as other areas of the body. The needles used for facial acupuncture are very fine. You may feel a brief sensation as a needle is inserted, although many people find facial acupuncture quite comfortable.

Because everyone’s skin, health, and response to treatment are different, there is no single treatment schedule or number of sessions that is right for everyone. However, as a general guideline, an initial series of 10-12 treatments is recommended for optimal and long-lasting results. You may see changes as soon as the first treatment, but treatments are cumulative (each session builds on the previous one), so it is important not to miss any of the initial treatments. Maintenance sessions are scheduled as necessary after the initial series.

Supporting your skin from the inside out

Healthy skin is influenced by more than skincare products or what happens on the surface.

Cosmetic acupuncture takes a broader approach by considering the skin alongside the rest of your health and wellbeing. The result is a treatment that is intended to support you as a whole person while giving particular attention to your face and skin.

Cosmetic Acupuncture is not recommended if you currently have any of the following:

  • Pregnancy
  • High Blood Pressure or Coronary Disease
  • Migraines
  • Diabetes Mellitus
  • Seizures
  • Epliepsy
  • Hepatitis
  • Herpes Outbreak
  • Bleeding or Bruising problems or a pacemaker
  • Skin disorders such as poison ivy, hives or eczema
  • Laser treatment within the past 21 days

Also, please inform us if you have received any type of cosmetic fillers or injections such as Botox.

Contact Stephanie to Schedule an Appointment