Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture is a treatment method that uses acupuncture techniques to address fine lines, wrinkles, decreased collagen production, sagging, drooping, and dull skin. The needles used in Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture are even thinner than the needles used in regular acupuncture, so it's a pretty painless experience.
What types of things can we address with Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture?
These techniques can be effective for these concerns:
- fine lines around the lips and eyes
- wrinkles on the forehead and between the eyebrows
- sagging of the face and jowls
- bags and puffiness around the eyes
- crows feet
- lines around the mouth and nose
- skin that is dull, or has lost some of its elasticity
Who can do Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture?
Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture is for people of any gender who want to feel good about the appearance of their skin! (And really, isn't that all of us?)
For safety reasons, not everyone should get Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture.
If you have any of these conditions or situations, this is not a good choice for you:
For safety reasons, not everyone should get Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture.
If you have any of these conditions or situations, this is not a good choice for you:
- migraines or frequent severe headaches
- seizures
- high blood pressure
- diabetes
- pregnancy, currently trying to get pregnant, or nursing
- receiving Botox or fillers (for ANY reason) in the last 3 months
- receiving a face-lift in the last 12 months
How often do I need to come in?
In general, it is recommended that you come in weekly for about 12 weeks, and then about once per month after to that maintain the results. In between sessions, you can use the AcuLift Dermal Roller (available in my office for $35), which stimulates collagen production. Think of the Dermal Roller as a little homework assignment between acupuncture sessions!
How is this different from Botox and fillers?
Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture is quite different from Botox and facial fillers. With acupuncture, nothing is being injected into the skin. We are simply using tiny, hair-like needles to stimulate collagen production; over time, this plumps up fine lines and wrinkles. This means that you have to make a bit of a commitment - to see results with Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture, you need to come in weekly so your body "learns" what to do. Additionally, I chose to become certified in a method that uses body acupuncture points, not just face points, to address your facial concerns. For example, if you're concerned about drooping and sagging, I would use body points that have a lifting and raising action, as well as facial points to stimulate upward movement. An acupuncture treatment for your face is a treatment for your whole body!
Can I combine facial acupuncture with acupuncture for other conditions?
It is best to focus on Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture when you're feeling good and healthy. If you're struggling with another condition such as chronic pain, infertility, digestive issues, or anxiety, let me know and we'll work out a schedule so we can address these things in a separate, organized way.
What can I expect during a Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture session?
The very first session will consist of a consult so you can identify specific things you want to address (crows feet, lip wrinkles, sagging, etc), as well as any other health conditions. The acupuncture during this session consists entirely of needles on your back. This is done to clear any energetic blocks and open up the flow of Qi (energy) to the upper body, so that subsequent treatments allow for full Qi flow to the face. The next 12 sessions will consist of a brief consult, needles on the body, face, ears, and scalp, and a period of time to rest with the needles in. Then all needles are removed and you will receive a massage with small glass suction cups and jade facial tools. It feels delightful - you'll like it!
Will you apply any products to my face?
Before inserting needles, a small amount of arnica gel will be applied to selected areas of your face; this decreases the risk of bruising. During the facial massage portion of your appointment, a lovely, lightly scented oil will be applied; this allows the massage tools to glide painlessly over your skin. There may be specific product recommendations for individuals based on their needs, with an effort to recommend organic and locally made products wherever possible.
What does it cost? Does insurance cover Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture?
Insurance does not cover Cosmetic Facial acupuncture procedures. The cost for a Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture session is $195. These sessions are 90 minutes, and include a consult, acupuncture, and two different types of facial massage using Chinese medicine techniques adapted specifically for the face.