As I have shared before, on my article The Benefits of Acupuncture, acupuncture has been part of my wellness journey since age 17, when I was diagnosed with Hashimotos disease. Ever since, Acupuncture has been my go-to method to use in parallel with all other medical prescriptions. This Traditional Oriental Medicine practice works wonders on every physiological level, which is why when told about facial acupuncture I was not surprised to learn that it is actually extremely beneficial for our skin due to its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, the way it sculpts and activates the muscles, and for enhancing circulation, lymphatic drainage and energy flow.
I have always had naturally acne-prone skin, which in turn has made me very conscious about the type of products and ingredients I use on my skin (I try to use clean ingredients only and avoid any harsh chemicals) as well as the kind of cosmetic treatments I do.
How does Facial Acupuncture work?
Facial Acupuncture is an extension of traditional acupuncture that focuses on meridian points on the face. It is known to be anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and to work internally to optimize the appearance of the skin from within. For it to work optimally, your acupuncturist should start placing needles on your extremities (feet, legs and arms), on your belly and then move up to your scalp and face. According to my acupuncturist, when you start from the body, you can immediately feel the flow of energy that will in turn support facial acupuncture making it deeply effective.
Around 50 painless needles will be inserted on your skin. The needles puncture the skin and create positive microtraumas (wounds), which in turn activate the body and make it go into repair mode. These microtraumas stimulate the production of collagen, and improve the skin's complexion, promotes elasticity and minimizes fine lines and wrinkles; stimulating both the lymphatic and circulatory system, which deliver nutrients and oxygen to your skin cells, healing and nourishing the skin from its deepest layer.
Acupuncture will not give you drastic immediate effects, it is a progressive improvement that works at strengthening and enhancing the quality of your skin over time, stimulating collagen, reducing any muscle tension, while working at a holistic level: calming your anxiety and stress levels, and most importantly, restoring your body. My acupuncturist recommends 10 sessions, once a week to see optimal results and after that, one maintenance visit per month.
