How does facial acupuncture work?
a. Traditional Chinese Medicine maintains the philosophy that physical, emotional, and spiritual health are all deeply interconnected. It also holds the idea that the state of the interior of the body will be manifested on the exterior (i.e. the skin, eyes, nails, hair, etc.) This means that imbalances in the body, mind, and spirit, will in time become visible in the outward visage. The ancient techniques of facial acupuncture are so powerful because by balancing both internal and external factors of the individual, the body responds by showing signs of both improved health and outward appearance. For ages the Chinese elite and royalty have used acupuncture of the face as an anti-aging and beautifying medicine to create and maintain a lustrous appearance along with vibrant health and well-being.
b. From a Western medical standpoint, facial acupuncture is effective due to the micro-traumas in the dermal layer of the skin created when the tiny needles are inserted. In response to this stimulus, blood flow to the area is increased, and there is a stimulation of collagen and elastin production. These primary connective proteins are what cause skin to be supple, firm, and resilient.
c. From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture facilitates the movement of both Qi (vital life force) and Blood to the face. This, in turn, removes obstructions and blockages, and creates free flow and energetic alignment, and visible vitality.
What to expect during the treatment?
a. The treatment begins with a quick intake where the patient discusses his or her chief cosmetic concerns. We will also take a moment to discuss chief health complaints and the patient’s current skin care routine, as to determine an appropriate and unique treatment that both address the patient’s concerns and supports his/her constitution.
b. To begin, an herbal mask is applied to the face. The herbs in the mask are determined by the patient’s skin, and address specific issues. If the skin type permits, a warm gel pack is applied over the herbs to allow the pores to open for maximum product penetration.
c. Next, the practitioner takes the patient’s pulses in order to determine the course of treatment. Based on the findings, body needles are inserted that best support the constitution and chief health concerns.
d. Once body needles are comfortably in place, the herbal mask is removed, and the facial needles are added. These are very, very small needles that are inserted to a shallow depth at specific points around the face, chest, and scalp. Once the needles are in, the patient rests peacefully for about 15 minutes. The patient should experience a slight mask-like or pleasant tingling sensation as the needles work their magic. *This procedure is extremely non-invasive and low risk due to the superficial needling and the tiny width of the needles.
**PLEASE BE AWARY THAT SOME MINOR BRUISING MAY OCCASIONALLY OCCUR. PLEASE REFRAIN FROM GETTING A FACAIL ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT AT LEAST 3 WEEKS BEFORE A MAJOR EVENT: I.E. PHOTO SHOOTS, WEDDINGS, BIRTHDAY PARTIES, ETC.**
e. After the face needles are removed, a second healing and restorative mask is applied and left set while the body needles are removed. Once this mask is set, it is removed with a warm towel.
f. The face is then spritzed with a rejuvenating facial toner, a luscious moisturizing cream is applied, and the patient receives a stimulating and toning facial and scalp massage.
g. The final steps of the treatment, depending of the patient’s skin, may include jade rolling, cupping, lymph drainage, tuning forks, beauty globes, and other tools.
How much does it cost?
a. The standard fee across the country for facial acupuncture is $120 a session, or $1000 for a 10 session series. Ask your practitioner when you schedule about special offers and our referral system.
How long does it take?
a. Ideally the series runs for 5 weeks with 2 visits per week. Each treatment lasts 60 minutes. The full 5 weeks are recommended for optimal results. We recommend consistency so that collagen and elastin growth are repeatedly stimulated, causing a permanent matrix of these fibers to form in the dermis of the skin. This will give the countenance a fresher, brighter, and smoother appearance.
What kind of results to expect at the conclusion of the series?
a. softer, firmer, and more supple skin
b. reduction in the depth of deep set wrinkles
c. reduction in age spots
d. tightens pores
e. brightens eyes
f. increased moisture in skin
g. lifts drooping eyelids
h. reduces bags under eyes
i. reduction and possible elimination of fine lines and wrinkles
j. a firmer jaw line and diminished jowl lines
k. improved facial color
l. improved skin tone
m. a decrease in or elimination of acne and rosacea
n. enhanced skin elasticity
o. improvement in muscle tone
p. rejuvenated appearance and a healthy vibrant glow
How about after the 10 session series?
a. We recommend that you return 1-2 times a month for follow-up treatments, or for 1 week (2 sessions), during each season for maintenance appointments. Another option is to wait a year and repeat the 10 session series. If you chose one of these courses of treatment, you will be sure to maintain a healthy, radiant, and youthful glow!
*Please be aware that facial acupuncture does not produce results that are as dramatic as invasive surgical procedures. It does, however, produce remarkable effects on appearance as well as a host of very healthy “side effects”.
In addition to noticeable improvements of the skin and overall appearance, many patients report improvements in their digestion, a decrease in symptoms of menopause such as dryness and hot flashes, better quality and quantity of sleep, a decline in mild mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, increase in energy, and an enhanced feeling of overall well-being.
Look forward to leaving each treatment feeling refreshed, vibrant, relaxed, and with a beautiful healthy glow.