[1] Department of Acupuncture, Takarazuka University of Medical and Health Care
[2] Science Research Institute Kyoto
[Objective] Using 3D shape measuring equipment and 3D image analysis software, the measured morphological changes were used as indicators to study the influence of acupuncture stimulation on facial muscles.
[Methods] The subjects were 10 healthy adults, and informed consent was obtained. In order to perform acupuncture stimulation, a continuous acupuncture device AcuSta was used, the acupuncture depth was set to 5mm, and a total of 26 acupoints were applied acupunctured on the face. The face was photographed using Artec EVA®, a non-contact type 3D shape measuring device, 5 minutes before and just before acupuncture stimulation, immediately after acupuncture stimulation, 30 minutes after stimulation, 1 hour after stimulation, and 2 hours after stimulation. Using the image analysis software Leios2, the 3D images before acupuncture stimulation, after acupuncture stimulation, 30 minutes after stimulation, 1 hour after stimulation and 2 hours after stimulation are used to analyze and compare of shape changes. about left and right eyelid cheeks and nasolabial folds.
[Result] In the assessment conducted with Leios2, facial muscles were stimulated by acupuncture, especially 30 minutes after acupuncture stimulation, facial changes were observed. In the nasolabial fold area on both sides Dicang (ST4), an average change of 0.25 to 0.39 mm was observed immediately after acupuncture stimulation. However, due to the large individual differences, there is no statistically significant difference in facial uplifts and depressions caused by acupuncture.
[Consideration/Conclusion] It was suggested that the evaluation using 3D image analysis could objectively evaluate the facial changes caused by cosmetic acupuncture. In the future, we thought it necessary to conduct a detailed study including whether or not there is a sustainable effect.
Keyword: Acupuncture, cosmetic acupuncture, 3D Image, Image Analysis