By Dr. Ramnique Ubhi, Naturopathic Doctor

We all want to look our best and feel good on the inside and out. With the natural aging process, environmental impacts like sun damage and diet and lifestyle factors, the skin can start changing and losing its elasticity, hydration, tone and colour. Unfortunately, this can often be seen and be most noticeable on the face. While there are a variety of products and treatments that may improve the overall look of the skin, many can be quite harsh and invasive, making us hesitate and feel unsure of their use.

What is Facial Acupuncture?

Facial Acupuncture is a natural, gentle and non-invasive option that can help to revitalize the skin without undergoing any serious procedures. Also known as Facial Cosmetic Acupuncture and Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture, this treatment follows Traditional Chinese Medicine philosophy to support Qi and Blood circulation, in order to harmonize the body internally and improve the appearance of the skin from the inside, as well as, the outside.

How does it work?

During the treatment, needles, that are thinner than a strand of hair, are inserted into the face, neck, scalp and/or other areas of the body. Locally, the insertion of these needles stimulates collagen and elastin production, through the body’s natural wound healing response, improving the skin’s appearance. Acupuncture needles also increase circulation and blood flow to the face, bringing more nutrients to skin cells and creating a glow and brightness to the complexion.

Needles are not the only tools used in Facial Acupuncture. Small glass cups and a flat, smooth Jade stone, called a Gua Sha stone, are also applied to the skin. Through suction and scraping movements, these tools help to increase lymphatic, fluid and blood circulation and relax tight fascia and muscles, helping to reduce inflammation in the face.

What can Facial Acupuncture help with?

• Improving fine lines and wrinkles

• Reducing inflammation and puffiness

• Firming loose skin around the eyelids, chin and jawline

• Increasing collagen and elastin production

• Improving skin discolouration, dark spots and scars

• Bringing brightness and glow to the face

• Releasing muscle tension and enhancing muscle tone in the face

• Improving symmetry of the face

• Providing overall relaxation

Other Uses of Facial Acupuncture

Aside from cosmetic purposes, Facial Acupuncture can also help with neuromuscular conditions affecting the face, such as Bells Palsy, Trigeminal neuralgia, Ptosis and TMJ disorders. When Acupuncture needles are inserted into the muscles of the face and head, they can stimulate or relax those muscles, and depending on the indication, increase muscle tone and strength or relax tightness and tension. Through these actions, improvements in facial muscle movement, pain and functioning can occur. Whether it’s for an upcoming special occasion like a wedding, reducing the signs of aging, self-care or just a general pick me up, Facial Acupuncture can help refresh and rejuvenate the look and feel of your skin!

For more information and to discuss if Facial Acupuncture is right for you, book a free meet and greet with Dr. Ramnique, ND.

References

1. Cellis, M. (2016). A multifaceted approach to the acupuncture treatment of neuromuscular facial conditions. Journal of Chinese Medicine, (110).

2. M. Smith, A., Ferris, T., K. Nahar, V., & Sharma, M. (2020). Non-traditional and non-invasive approaches in facial rejuvenation: A brief review. Cosmetics, 7(1), 10.

3. Shin, B. C., & Lim, K. T. (2018). Acupuncture for cosmetic use: a systematic review of prospective studies. Journal of Cosmetic Medicine, 2(2), 76-84.

4. Yun, Y., Kim, S., Kim, M., Kim, K., Park, J. S., & Choi, I. (2013). Effect of facial cosmetic acupuncture on facial elasticity: An open-label, single-arm pilot study. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013.