History & Development
Acupuncture has been used in Asia as mainstream medicine for thousands of years and has been adopted by several cultures around the world. In recent years western culture has embraced this discipline and is benefiting from what it has to offer.
Cosmetic acupuncture has become a popular alternative to cosmetic surgery in many parts of the world including the US, Japan, Hong Kong, Sweden and now Canada. Celebrities, anyone and everyone are using this effective and innovative technique to reduce lines on the face, enhance their natural appearance and to slow down gravity’s effects in the aging process.
It was discovered during acupuncture treatments for ailments involving needle points on the face or areas harboring cellulite that those patients had marked changes in the quality of the skin, texture and muscle tone of the treated areas. There was a glow and radiance with a tightening of the skin and increased muscle tone. Lines on the face reduced or disappeared. With much research cosmetic acupuncture was born. It is now making a global name for itself.
How Does It Work?
Fine needles are used on acupuncture points on your body for systemic support and extremely fine, tiny needles are used on the face. The facial needles increase local circulation thereby bringing more nutrients to the area and revitalizing the skin. It also stimulates local collagen production firming the tissue to give a more youthful appearance. The systemic points are chosen specific to your health needs while incorporating meridians responsible for vitality and longevity. Once the needles have been in for approximately 35 minutes, they are carefully removed and the session closes with a facial massage. This ensures proper lymphatic drainage and toxic elimination.
Treatment
A course of treatment involves 10 – 12 sessions, each appointment once or twice a week (or more often if you are healthy and have availability) until the package is complete. Maintenance involves one treatment a month or at the change of each season. Most clients see results by the 6th or 7th session and usually report a healthy “radiance” for 24 hours after each session.
Some clients will be given a mask treatment during the course of their facial or cellulite treatment depending on the skin’s condition and response. The masks are clean, all natural and may be specifically formulated with organic essential oils or Chinese herbs. The mask is a treatment you can take home to do for yourself.
Results
Cosmetic acupuncture is for individuals who want to enhance what they have, slow down the aging process or look 5 – 10 years younger. Everyone responds individually. Cosmetic acupuncture is helpful with the following:
• fine lines and wrinkles
• dark circles under the eyes
• puffy eyes
• acne
• rosacea
• large pores
• double chin
• sagging skin
• cellulite
A report in the international Journal of Clinical Acupuncture in 1996 found that of 300 cases being treated with clinical acupuncture, 98% had marked effects with one course of treatment. Results were: skin more delicate and fair; improvement of the elasticity of facial muscles and diminishing wrinkles; a healthier complexion and overall rejuvenation.
Cosmetic Acupuncture — An Example Of Before And After
This is a photo documentation of some of the changes this treatment can provide. The pictures have not been treated and were taken by an amature camera and photographer (myself).
Here you see a great example of how acupuncture can tighten skin. In the before photo the skin around the chin softly gives way to the neck and even the cheeks have a downward motion. Apart from the gravitational pull she has a gathering of skin under the eyes and mild rosacea on the cheeks. The after photo shows the overall lift for the face; the skin is taut; the chin line is more defined; the cheeks are firmer; the tissue around the eyes is tight and there is increased luster and sheen to the skin. Even her eyes appear brighter. The rosacea dissipated although not absolutely clear in this photo. The after picture is a bit shiny as it was taken post-treatment after the facial massage. Almost ten years later not only does this client look the same as her after photo but she continues to surpass my expectations after her maintenance sessions (once a month).
Client Testimonial:
“The cosmetic acupuncture experience itself is extremely relaxing and expansive, in fact, frequently it was similar to deep and profound meditation. I emerged from sessions refreshed, tension free, and more spiritual attuned. Throughout the course of treament, I also became more aware of when and how I was holding tension in my face, and this awareness continues to provide me with opportunities to release facial tension as it occurs. Friends, colleagues and acquaintances remark on the radiance and clarity of my skin, and the lack of wrinkles for my age (41 years). I look forward to my monthly maintenance session, as it has become a valuable component of my self nurturing and my preventative lifestyle. Sue Sheedy is a highly skilled and exceptional practitioner of a wide range of healing arts, and I am delighted to continue to receive the benefits of her expertise in cosmetic acupuncture.” Ann Marie Keating, M.Sc, Ph.D. Candidate, Clinical Psychology