Melbourne acupuncture Chinese medicine

What is Cosmetic Acupuncture?

Cosmetic Acupuncture is a modern approach to an age old concept of ‘healthy ageing’. The concept of cosmetic acupuncture is part of a recorded history which dates back to over 2000 years. It was used as one of the key beauty secrets of the wealthy and powerful women in ancient China but it only received formal recognition in the 1970’s from modern China. Today the effectiveness and benefits of acupuncture facial rejuvenation is becoming more widespread and many celebrities depend on it for their health and vitality. Gwyneth Paltrow, Madonna and Cher are among the celebrities who have come forward to proclaim the benefits of this age old treatment.

Cosmetic acupuncture is a specialty field of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) which advocates a holistic approach to health and well being. Cosmetic Acupuncture aims to treat the person as a whole and draws upon a system of diagnosis and treatment which balances and restores health from the inside out. Treatment is individualized and based on a persons TCM diagnosis which is derived from a combination of specialized questions and facial, pulse and tongue diagnostic techniques. Treatment involves acupuncture, Tui -na( acupressure massage), cupping, gua-sha, jade roller and herbal mask applications.

Cosmetic acupuncture is rapidly becoming the treatment choice for people who want to improve their appearance without compromising their health!

How Does Cosmetic Acupuncture Work?

The concept of health and beauty are one, and the face is a mirror to a person’s underlying health. The functional activities of the human body are not isolated. Acupuncture meridians form a network, which communicate with all the organs of the body bringing a person into an organic whole. Meridians circulate vital Qi (energy) and blood around the whole body with many meridians either beginning or ending on the face, and different areas of the face correlate to specific organs in the body- hence the reflection of internal health on appearance.

Acupuncture can regulate the flow of qi and blood and restore balance to the body to improve looks and overall health. Unlike other anti- ageing facial treatments the benefits of a constitutional approach will have you looking better and feeling your best! Additionally, cosmetic Acupuncture is generally safer and more affordable than Botox, Collagen injections, dermabrasion, cosmetic Surgery and involves no recovery time.

Western Medicine Perspective

• Stimulates collagen and elastin production- a recent study conducted in Germany showed that needling the surface of the skin induces collagen production by a thousand times!
• Increases muscle firmness, skin firmness
• Increases micro-circulation to the face, improving skin color and lymphatic drainage

Eastern Medicine Perspective

• Increases flow of Qi and blood to the face as well as re-balancing the body internally by correcting any underlying deficiencies/excesses and improving energy flow in the channels.
• Assists stress relief and can induce a sense of relaxation
  

What can I expect in a Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture Session?

All cosmetic acupuncture treatments are unique as no two people are alike. Just as human DNA and peoples ailments differ so to do the treatments we offer each patient in the clinic. By using TCM diagnosis it is possible to identify the underlying pathology causing skin imperfections including fine lines, blemishes, skin discolorations, sagging etc.

Treatment usually begins with a massage and then depending upon the patient’s diagnosis, treatment requirements alter and may incorporate one or a combination of jade roller, gua-sha, herbal masks, cupping and acupuncture.

Jade Roller: This is a traditional Chinese beauty tool used for thousands of years by Chinese empresses to promote youthful skin. It is particularly useful for lymphatic drainage, puffiness, sagging skin, open pores and discoloration. The Jade Roller is gently glided over the skin in a defined pattern which can be taught to patients and applied for home use.

Gua Sha: This is an ancient Chinese technique that involves gently stroking the skin with a smooth blade made from jade which promotes blood circulation and removes toxins within the body.

Facial cupping: This is an additional non-invasive method using light suction to promote local circulation to the face.

Acupuncture: treatment involves the insertion of very fine needles into the face and body which often induces a pleasant sensation of relaxation through the manipulation of Qi (vital energy) in the body. Needles are left in place for around 25 minutes and then removed.

Cosmetic Acupuncture treatment usually consists of 10-15 sessions and results are best achieved with visits twice a week for the first month or so and then once a week for the remainder of the program. Patients with fine lines and only minor skin issues and no major health concerns can expect to undergo a course of around 12 treatments. Patients with significant wrinkles, sagging or discoloration will be recommended a course of 15 treatments as more time will be required to correct underlying internal imbalances and health issues.

Every person responds differently to treatment but patients can usually see an improvement in skin tone and color after the first session, however, more substantial results are usually seen after about 7 treatments. Patients should bear in mind that the epidermis (surface layer of skin) renews itself every 30 days). Results are not permanent but may last for a couple of years with maintenance treatment every 4-6 weeks. Others may need to repeat a course annually. Treatment is offered as a package of 12 or 15 treatments and is also offered singularly.

Treatment can commence at any age but ideally in the 20’s and early 30’s. Treatment at an earler stage is focused on prevention of signs of ageing and maintaining optimal internal health. The longer and imbalance is left the longer it will take to restore harmony. The effects of treatment are also cumulative so whilst results may not always be noticed immediately as the years progress it will become more evident because you will generally look better for your age than your peers.

Are there Any Side effects?

Acupuncture treatments are generally gentle and safe. The most likely effects post treatment include flushing of the face which is very normal and related to the increased circulation of blood to the face. Occasionally minor and temporary bruising may occur at the site of needle insertion. This is usually painless and resolves itself after a couple of days.