What is Facial Cosmetic Acupuncture?
You may have heard about facial rejuvenation acupuncture and are now looking for a clinic near you. It sounds strange that a treatment type used for conditions such as allergies, arthritis, digestive problems, and muscle spasms could work to reduce skin aging, but many patients who come to Life Balance Clinic enjoy successful results.
What is the Difference Between Cosmetic and Facial Acupuncture?
Facial cosmetic acupuncture and traditional acupuncture may have different focuses and techniques, but at their core, they both stem from the same foundation. While traditional acupuncture targets acupoints throughout the body to support overall well-being, facial cosmetic acupuncture places particular emphasis on local points within the facial area to rejuvenate and enhance the skin's appearance.
By stimulating circulation, promoting cellular repair, and addressing signs of aging, facial cosmetic acupuncture aims to achieve a more youthful and revitalized complexion. Despite their distinct approaches, both procedures draw upon the principles of acupuncture to promote balance and wellness.
Does Cosmetic Acupuncture Actually Work?
Yes, studies show that facial cosmetic acupuncture can reduce wrinkles and sagging. One trial on facial elasticity found that most patients benefitted, even though the treatment period was shorter than the typical eight-week course. Others demonstrate fewer or shallower wrinkles after 10 treatments, which can be scheduled once or twice weekly. Uneven skin pigmentation, which has few Western treatments, can become significantly lighter and smaller after an eight-week course of twice-weekly sessions.
But how effective can cosmetic acupuncture be? A treatment course of 10 sessions can reduce eye rim wrinkles by 50% and under-eye wrinkles by 20%, whether you choose electroacupuncture or regular needling. Moisture content of the skin, which declines with age, can improve by almost 30%.
Is Facial Acupuncture Better Than Botox?
Facial acupuncture and Botox are very different. While Botox is more well-known, it only provides symptomatic relief, by freezing the muscles so they cannot move to produce, worsen, or accentuate wrinkles. Facial cosmetic acupuncture’s benefits stem from improving energy (Qi) and blood flow to and from the skin, allowing your body’s natural regenerative abilities to repair aged tissues.
On the other hand, Botox provides faster results, where you can instantly notice a reduction in wrinkle depth. With facial acupuncture, you will need a course of several treatments and follow-up sessions every six or 12 months. Neither provide permanent benefits, as the paralyzing effects of Botox wear off and so do the Qi-balancing properties of acupuncture.
Effect of Facial Cosmetic Acupuncture
A course of facial cosmetic acupuncture works in several ways, some of which depend on the points and style your doctor uses. Needles inserted into muscles can improve their tone if they are too weak and sag or help them to relax if they are holding excess tension that worsens wrinkles. Acupuncture may also increase vital energy and circulation, so the tissue receives more oxygen, nutrients, and Qi, while helping to clear energetic blockages and supporting detoxification.
At Life Balance Clinic, we open our doors to those searching for cosmetic acupuncture treatment. Contact us here to learn more, or call at 847-724-1777.