Cosmetic Acupuncture is a specialist field of Acupuncture aimed at improving the skin's appearance naturally, and is also known as Acupuncture Facial Rejuvenation. It is a gentle yet effective alternative to western cosmetic surgery, Botox, collagen injections, dermabrasion etc. 

Although commonly called Cosmetic Acupuncture, the treatments are part of a speciality field of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that use a combination of Acupuncture, Tuina (finger acupressure) Chinese Herbal Medicine, and Chinese Dietary therapy. It differs from all other treatments in that all treatments are unique to the patient's individual constitution, based on a personal Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnosis and is typically determined by pulse, tongue and facial diagnosis.

Cosmetic Acupuncture has existed in China for centuries and was one of the primary beauty secrets of the wealthy and powerful women of Ancient China. It is recorded during the Sun Dynasty nearly 800 years ago. However, it was not until the 1970’s that it received formal recognition in modern China.

How Does Cosmetic Acupuncture Work?

Cosmetic Acupuncture is a holistic treatment, which focuses on creating beauty from the inside out. Unlike other facial treatments, the patient's entire health is improved during treatment leaving them feeling younger as well as looking younger.

By using TCM diagnosis techniques such as pulse/tongue diagnosis, facial diagnosis and questioning it is possible to identify and treat the major organ imbalances in the body that cause ageing and skin imperfections. Wrinkles and fine lines appear on the face where there is an imbalance in the body. By treating the imbalances of the body a patient’s physical appearance and health improves. By inserting very fine, single use needles into the face and body a pleasant and relaxing sensation of Qi or energy is achieved by the needles. The needles are left for 20 to 25 minutes in place and then are removed. The face is massaged and needled to treat the external manifestation of the internal imbalance. The body is needled to directly treat the facial imperfections and internal organ disharmony.

The treatments stimulate collagen and elastin production and increase the flow of Qi and blood to the face as well as rebalancing the body’s internal organs and strengthening internal weaknesses. Skin generally looks firmer with better muscle tone, tighter pores, and better facial colour. Cosmetic Acupuncture also has the added bonus of improving lymph & blood circulation and promoting wellbeing.

Depending upon the patient's diagnosis Cosmetic Chinese Herbal medicine can also be prescribed to alleviate disease patterns. The herbal medicine is used in conjunction with cosmetic acupuncture as it facilitates rapid changes in the body. Results are seen much quicker when Chinese herbal medicine is combined with cosmetic acupuncture.

Immediately after a treatment the skin looks firmer, with improved muscle tone. Pores also appear smaller and there is an improvement in facial colour. Most patients notice an improvement in their complexion, firmness of skin and brightness of eyes after the first treatment. However, just as the treatment is based upon the patient's individual diagnosis, the number of and frequency of treatments needs to be discussed with the patient.

Are there any side effects?

Cosmetic Acupuncture & Cosmetic Chinese Herbal medicine treatments are very gentle & safe. After treatments it is common for the skin to appear slightly flushed for a few hours. This is normal due to the increased circulation of blood to the face. Very occasionally minor and temporary bruising may appear at the site of needle insertion. Most people feel very relaxed and peaceful as a result of their treatment.