Everything You Need to Know About Facial Cosmetic Acupuncture
Ever since the rise of social media and the “influencer,” it seems as if society is more obsessed than ever with our appearances. New cosmetic beauty treatments are being introduced to the market every year, though many of them distract from some of the age-old methods that patients and doctors used centuries ago.
In particular, acupuncture.
Before you squirm away at the thought of sticking needles in your face, take a look below as we cover the basics and benefits of this ancient tradition. It might be the next procedure you add to your list.
A Trusted Approach
Facial cosmetic acupuncture has been used for thousands of years in Traditional Chinese Medicine, though it wasn’t until the early 1980s that this innovative beauty treatment emerged in Western society. Since then, the procedure has been heavily researched and utilized by countless patients hoping to delay the effects of aging.
In fact, the World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture as an effective medical treatment when used within the bounds of its established guidelines. As long as a licensed and professionally trained practitioner conducts the cosmetic procedure, patients have nothing to worry about when it comes to safety.
How Does Facial Cosmetic Acupuncture Work?
The success of acupuncture treatments can be credited with somewhat simple science. First, let’s go over what the procedure actually looks like with most practitioners:
- Placing the Needles: The first step is often the most frightening for patients; fortunately, the process is entirely painless. The most common number of microneedles used is 70-80, which are placed in problem areas on your face.
- Lying Still: Once the needles are positioned, you will lie still for around 30 minutes to allow the process to take effect.
As the needles pierce your skin, they will create tiny wounds, also known as “positive microtraumas.” Once your body senses these microtraumas, it will enter a repair state that sends nutrients and oxygen to your skin cells, replenishing your skin in the process.
Furthermore, acupuncture is known to stimulate collagen production: The protein responsible for improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and other fine lines.
The Benefits
There’s a reason why facial cosmetic acupuncture has been around for so long: It produces excellent results.
Some of the aging complications this procedure may reduce include the following:
- Crow’s feet
- Lip lines
- Smile lines
- Frown lines
- Jaw and brow tension
It’s important to note that acupuncture is not a one-time “quick fix.” Like most other cosmetic operations, research shows that significant improvements are experienced after a minimum of five sessions, though additional sessions can be even more beneficial.
Additionally, maintaining a well-balanced diet and mental status are crucial components of facial cosmetic acupuncture. Patients who regularly exercise, practice healthy posture and mental wellness exercises — like meditation — will see the most progress from the procedure.
Keep these considerations in mind, and facial cosmetic acupuncture could be the solution you’ve been looking for all along.
