Cosmetic acupuncture is a viable alternative to Botox, micro-dermabrasion, photo rejuvenation, chemical peels, or other processes that are designed to "wind back the clock" and reduce the signs of ageing. Best of all, it is natural and actually works. Read on to find out more.
Cosmetic Acupuncture and Ageing
Cosmetic acupuncture aims to correct the signs of ageing both by using a local treatment and also treating the underlying causes of ageing. It has semi-permanent results on wrinkles, sagging chins, and bust lines, is non-invasive, and can reduce the signs of ageing by up to 15 years. Cosmetic acupuncture is also painless. It lifts the skin by about 7 millimetres in order to remove fine lines around the eyes, lips, and nose, and is also effective at raising the bags underneath the eyes and firming the jaw line. It also improves the appearance of the bust.
Cosmetic Acupuncture and its Effect on the Whole Body
Each person is treated differently with cosmetic acupuncture, in order to address their individual health concerns as well as the cosmetic goals. Acupuncture needles are inserted into specific areas of the face, neck, and head. The needles stimulate the skin cells by improving blood circulation, which in turn increases the production of collagen and elastin. Collagen is a vital part of the connective tissue that forms the supporting mesh that keeps the skin firm and supple. Improved local blood supply to the areas of the face strengthens and tightens the facial tissue.
Treating underlying health conditions is an added benefit of cosmetic acupuncture. The insertion of needles in the distal parts of your body such as your hands or legs can balance the effect on the head and also helps with other physical conditions by addressing the imbalances in the body.
The needles are left in place for 20 to 30 minutes, and once the needles are removed, a face mask is applied followed by a specialised massage. The massage invigorates the blood and lymphatic circulation and enhances the effects of the acupuncture.
Cosmetic Acupuncture and TCM
Cosmetic Acupuncture is actually a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and is a combination of modalities such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, acupressure massage, cupping, and moxa. TCM diagnosis techniques such as pulse/tongue diagnosis, facial diagnosis and questioning are used to identify and treat the major organ imbalances in the body that cause ageing and skin imperfections. Wrinkles and fine lines appear when there is an imbalance in the body and treating the imbalances allows the patient’s health and appearance to improve.
How Many Treatments are recommended?
A series of 15 treatments is recommended, with 5 treatments on consecutive days and the remaining series of 10 treatments every second day. However, it may be recommended that the series of 15 treatments be carried out over two and a half months. Once the required results are achieved, a single booster treatment may be required. Intensive treatments are also available. Ensure that your acupuncturist is trained in cosmetic acupuncture
You should allow 90 minutes for the treatment session, and the cost is usually around $150. Private health fund rebates may be available.
Originally published on Sep 08, 2008
