Cosmetic acupuncture is a holistic, non-surgical facial rejuvenation technique that involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points on the face and body to stimulate blood flow, promote collagen production, and improve skin tone and texture.
Cosmetic acupuncture, also known as facial acupuncture or facial rejuvenation acupuncture, is based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which views the body as a network of interconnected energy channels or meridians that influence overall health and well-being.
During a typical cosmetic acupuncture session, a trained acupuncturist will first assess the patient’s health and facial concerns before inserting needles into specific acupuncture points on the face, neck, and body. The needles used in cosmetic acupuncture are much smaller and finer than those used in traditional acupuncture, and are typically painless.
The acupuncture points used in cosmetic acupuncture are chosen based on the individual’s unique needs, and may include points that help to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation. In addition to the needles, the acupuncturist may also use other techniques such as facial massage, cupping, or herbal remedies to enhance the results of the treatment.
The benefits of cosmetic acupuncture include:
Improved skin tone and texture
Reduction in fine lines and wrinkles
Increased collagen production
Improved facial muscle tone
Reduced puffiness and under-eye circles
Enhanced overall health and well-being
While cosmetic acupuncture is generally considered safe, it is important to choose a qualified and licensed acupuncturist who has experience in facial rejuvenation acupuncture. It is also important to discuss any health concerns or medications with the acupuncturist before beginning treatment.
Cosmetic acupuncture is a natural botox
Cosmetic acupuncture is sometimes referred to as a “natural Botox” because, like Botox, it can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. However, the mechanisms by which these two treatments achieve their effects are quite different.
Botox, which is a brand name for a type of botulinum toxin, works by blocking the nerve signals that cause muscles to contract. When injected into specific facial muscles, Botox temporarily paralyzes those muscles, which can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. However, Botox is a synthetic substance that is injected directly into the body and can have potential side effects.
In contrast, cosmetic acupuncture is a non-invasive, natural alternative to Botox that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific acupuncture points on the face and body. These needles stimulate blood flow, promote collagen production, and improve skin tone and texture, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Cosmetic acupuncture also helps to reduce tension in the facial muscles, which can contribute to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, cosmetic acupuncture can help to prevent the formation of new wrinkles and lines, while also reducing the appearance of existing ones.
Overall, while Botox and cosmetic acupuncture can both help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, they achieve their effects through different mechanisms, and some people may prefer the natural, non-invasive approach of cosmetic acupuncture over the synthetic, invasive approach of Botox.
Acupoints for cosmetic acupuncture
The selection of acupoints for cosmetic acupuncture may vary depending on the individual’s specific facial concerns and overall health, as well as the training and experience of the acupuncturist. However, some commonly used acupoints for cosmetic acupuncture include:
LI20 (Yingxiang) – located on either side of the nose, LI20 is thought to improve nasal congestion and promote healthy skin.
ST2 (Sibai) – located on either side of the nose, ST2 is believed to improve circulation and promote healthy skin.
ST3 (Juliao) – located below the cheekbone, ST3 is thought to improve facial muscle tone and reduce puffiness.
ST6 (Jiache) – located at the angle of the jaw, ST6 is believed to improve facial muscle tone and reduce sagging.
CV24 (Chengjiang) – located at the center of the chin, CV24 is thought to improve skin tone and reduce sagging.
GV20 (Baihui) – located at the top of the head, GV20 is believed to promote overall health and well-being, as well as improve circulation to the face.
LI4 (Hegu) – located on the hand between the thumb and index finger, LI4 is believed to reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin.
PC6 (Neiguan) – located on the inner forearm, PC6 is thought to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can contribute to a more youthful appearance.
Some other acupoints for cosmetic acupuncture
BL2 (Zanzhu) – located above the inner end of the eyebrows, BL2 is believed to reduce puffiness and promote healthy skin around the eyes.
GB1 (Tongziliao) – located on the outside corner of the eye socket, GB1 is thought to improve vision and reduce wrinkles around the eyes.
LI11 (Quchi) – located on the outer elbow crease, LI11 is believed to reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin.
LU7 (Lieque) – located on the wrist crease, LU7 is thought to improve circulation and promote healthy skin.
PC3 (Quze) – located on the inner elbow crease, PC3 is believed to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
SI18 (Quanliao) – located just below the cheekbone, SI18 is thought to improve facial muscle tone and reduce sagging.
SP3 (Taibai) – located on the inner foot, SP3 is believed to improve digestion and promote healthy skin.
ST36 (Zusanli) – located on the outer lower leg, ST36 is thought to improve overall health and well-being, as well as promote healthy skin.
UB1 (Jingming) – located in the inner corner of the eye, UB1 is believed to improve vision and reduce wrinkles around the eyes.
UB2 (Zanzhu) – located above the outer end of the eyebrows, UB2 is thought to reduce puffiness and promote healthy skin around the eyes.
Yintang – located between the eyebrows, Yintang is believed to reduce stress and promote relaxation, as well as improve skin tone and texture.
GV14 (Dazhui) – located on the upper back, GV14 is thought to improve overall health and well-being, as well as promote healthy skin.
GV26 (Shuigou) – located between the upper lip and the nose, GV26 is believed to promote healthy skin and reduce wrinkles around the mouth.
CV17 (Danzhong) – located in the center of the chest, CV17 is thought to reduce stress and promote relaxation, as well as improve skin tone and texture.
LI3 (Sanjian) – located on the hand between the index finger and the thumb, LI3 is believed to improve circulation and promote healthy skin.
It is important to remember that the selection of acupoints for cosmetic acupuncture should be tailored to the individual’s specific needs and goals, and should be performed by an experienced acupuncturist.