What is cosmetic acupuncture?
Cosmetic acupuncture, also known as facial or facial rejuvenation acupuncture, uses acupuncture needles and other tools of Chinese medicine to improve the skin and assist the aging process. It is a natural, minimally invasive alternative to treatments such as Botox, chemical peels and face-lift surgeries.
How does it work?
This treatment works as an anti-aging treatment in that insertion of needles into specific areas can help to promote collagen production, in part by increasing blood flow to the area and stimulating the body's repair system. As a result, a multitude of symptoms and conditions can be improved: wrinkles and fine lines, sagging skin, puffy and/or sunken eyes, age spots and other discoloration, and lift droopy eyes and mouth corners. It should be noted that facial acupuncture can also be a great treatment for those facing acne or other skin conditions of the face for the same reasons above; facial acupuncture can help reduce active inflammation of the face as well as fade scars.
This treatment uses points over the entire body to help to directly aid in the improvement of the appearance of the face as well as increase overall well-being and internal health, much like a regular acupuncture session would. Each treatment is individualized for the patient and their specific concerns and health.
For more information, feel free to watch Dr. Alemi's interview with Top Doctors Interviews on the benefits of cosmetic acupuncture: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpGqAI7N2DI&feature=youtu.be
The actual treatment
During a cosmetic acupuncture treatment, after the initial intake and evaluation, a wide-range of tools and techniques are used in order to bring about the best results. This includes the use of: facial and body needles, facial cupping, facial gua sha, microdermaollers, acupressure massage and topicals (such as natural cleansers, serums and essential oils).
Cosmetic acupuncture is good in that it also helps to minimize sagging or droopy skin and can also be a treatment for those suffering from facial paralysis (i.e. Bell's Palsy). It is also beneficial for those currently suffering from skin conditions, such as roscacea or acne, or those who have scars and/or acne marks from when they were younger.
For those who are tentative about the use of needles, we offer what is known as the Rejuvenation Facial, also called the Gua Sha Glow treatment. This treatment is the same as the cosmetic acupuncture treatment in the tools that it uses and it's aim, but no needles are used. The facial is relaxing and able to help move blood and lymph, which improves fine lines and wrinkles, reduces puffiness and minimizes scars and dark spots.
