What You Need to Know About Cosmetic Acupuncture

2 Aug 2023

What is Cosmetic Acupuncture?

Cosmetic acupuncture, also known as facial rejuvenation acupuncture, has been a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. It is a skin care treatment that aims to rejuvenate the skin’s appearance and reduce, or even prevent, common signs of aging. The process involves stimulating the flow of Qi and Blood throughout the body and face, balancing various wellness-influencing systems.

As we age, we may experience fine lines, puffiness, loss of skin elasticity, changes in skin color, and alterations in facial muscle tone. Cosmetic acupuncture can be utilized by acupuncturists to address these issues.

During the treatment, tiny, thin needles are strategically placed on specific locations across the face. These needles cause minor microtraumas to the skin, promoting increased blood flow and stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, resulting in tighter facial muscles and a healthier skin appearance.

What are the appointments like?

At your first cosmetic acupuncture session, you’ll fill out a detailed intake form, providing your acupuncturist with essential information about your overall health. Based on your concerns and health status, a suitable treatment plan will be devised. The frequency of sessions can vary, with options ranging from once a month to once a week, depending on individual expectations and the appropriateness of the treatment.

Before commencing the acupuncture session, your acupuncturist will evaluate your overall health and discuss your main concerns. The treatment starts with needling of body points to balance Qi and blood flow, followed by facial Gua sha, facial cupping, and needling on the face.

Cosmetic acupuncture serves as a beneficial alternative to Botox or fillers and it also can be used in combination with these techniques. By incorporating Rejuvenating Facial Acupuncture, skin quality and collagen production improve, leading to longer-lasting effects from Botox treatments and a reduced need for repeat Botox and cosmetic surgery.

What is the difference between Cosmetic Acupuncture and Botox?

The key difference between Botox and cosmetic acupuncture lies in their methods of action. Botox utilizes the botulinum toxin to reduce wrinkles by paralyzing facial muscles, whereas cosmetic acupuncture employs natural techniques such as facial Gua sha, cupping, and tiny needle insertion to stimulate the body’s healing response, encouraging collagen and elastin production. 

Typically, several acupuncture treatments are necessary to observe lasting effects. It is recommended to undergo at least four to eight treatments initially. With further sessions required for more noticeable and lasting results. Each session lasts approximately an hour and can be done once or twice a week.

While the effects of cosmetic acupuncture may not be as pronounced as those seen with medical treatments like Botox or fillers, it provides a more subtle difference and lacks the potential side effects associated with Botox or fillers. Expectations from cosmetic acupuncture include a reduction in fine lines, improved skin appearance and brightness, and changes in skin discolorations. However, the effects may vary from person to person and can only be determined after undergoing the cosmetic treatment.

It is essential to manage expectations regarding the results of cosmetic acupuncture, as they may not be as dramatic as those achieved with Botox or fillers. Outcomes differ from person to person, but many notice a reduction in fine lines, improved skin brightness, and overall skin tone enhancement. Discussing the potential results and their duration with your acupuncturist is advisable.

Conclusion

Pupak Pourvahidi, R.AC is an acupuncturist at Natural Choice Medical Clinic in Guelph. She is passionate about acupuncture of all sorts, but has a special interest in Cosmetic Acupuncture. If you are curious how this natural treatment may benefit you, book an initial assessment with here by calling our office at 519-265-8035 or visiting our online booking page HERE.