The Beauty Society

Introduction

Cosmetic facial acupuncture has been practised in China and other Eastern Countries for about a thousand years. It is an aesthetic treatment, developed to reduce the signs of aging and to improve facial complexion. Surprisingly it has not been widely available in the West until about 10 years ago, and has only become popular in the last few years.

As with any traditional Chinese/Oriental medicine*, the aim is to produce benefits through improving the balance and flow of energy within the body. With cosmetic facial acupuncture, the emphasis during treatment is on improving the flow of energy to the face. However, because cosmetic facial acupuncture also improves the energy balance of the whole body, during the course of treatments conditions that patients may have (e.g. backache) can improve as well. Practitioners often also address other conditions which can affect appearance - e.g. excessive stress, which can lead to the development of ‘worry lines’.

What is involved?

As with any traditional Chinese medicine treatment, during the first session a detailed case history is taken to determine the energy profile of the patient. The treatment protocol used will vary with different practitioners, and will also depend on the energy profile of the patient. However, most practitioners will use a number of facial acupuncture points, and also several in the body to balance the energy. Many practitioners will also use facial and body massage within the treatment to further improve the energy flow and balance. Either traditional Chinese massage (tui-na) or traditional Japanese massage (shiatsu) can be used for this - these are usually carried out through the patient’s normal clothing.
 
Usually extremely fine needles are used, which can hardly be felt, and most patients feel very relaxed during the treatment. Sometimes a second set of slightly thicker needles are used to treat specific facial features, such as areas of deeper wrinkles, but these needles are still very fine so there is little discomfort. It is thought that this second set of needles produce benefits through increasing the blood supply and collagen levels in the areas treated. For patients who are sensitive to needles, additional facial massaging can be used instead of the second set of needles, although progress may be slower if this option is chosen.

How many treatments would I need?

After one or two treatments many patients notice a difference, with their face having a brighter appearance, and fine wrinkles may reduce due to relaxation of the facial muscles. However, for further longer term improvements at least 6 treatments are needed at weekly or fortnightly intervals. Patients may then benefit from a maintenance programme of several treatments a year for at least a year after the initial course of treatment.

As with any aesthetic treatment, the results of cosmetic facial acupuncture can vary from patient-to-patient. Practitioners usually offer a free initial consultation with patients to discuss possible treatment, so that patients do not have unrealistic expectations of what can be achieved. However, most patients are very pleased with the results of the treatment, both in terms of how they look and how they feel!