What is Cosmetic Acupuncture?
Cosmetic acupuncture, also known as facial rejuvenation acupuncture or acupuncture facelift, is a non-surgical and non-invasive cosmetic treatment that uses tiny needles to stimulate specific points on the face and body to promote a healthy, glowing complexion, reduce wrinkles, and improve overall skin health. The benefits of cosmetic acupuncture include:
Reduced appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Increased collagen production, which helps to improve skin elasticity.
Reduced puffiness and dark circles under the eyes.
Improved skin texture and tone.
Reduced acne and other skin problems.
Increased blood circulation to the face, which helps to nourish and rejuvenate the skin.
Reduced stress and anxiety levels, which can contribute to skin problems.
Cosmetic acupuncture works by stimulating the body's natural healing mechanisms to increase blood flow, stimulate collagen production, and promote overall skin health. The tiny needles used in cosmetic acupuncture are inserted into specific points on the face and body, which helps to increase circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote cellular regeneration. By activating these specific points, the body is able to naturally heal and repair itself, leading to a healthy and radiant complexion. Collagen is a protein that is naturally produced by the body and is responsible for giving skin its strength, elasticity, and firmness. As we age, collagen production decreases, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin.
How does acupuncture increase collagen production? Cosmetic acupuncture works to increase collagen production in a few ways:
Microtrauma: The tiny needles used in acupuncture create micro-trauma to the skin, which stimulates the body's natural healing response. This healing response includes increased blood flow and the production of new collagen.
Acupoint stimulation: Specific acupuncture points on the face and body are chosen to stimulate the production of collagen. For example, One study published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy in 2018 found that cosmetic acupuncture treatment, including needling ST36, significantly increased collagen density in the skin of participants.
Increased circulation: Acupuncture helps to increase blood flow to the face, which brings oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells. This increased circulation also helps to promote the production of collagen.
In addition to increasing collagen production, cosmetic acupuncture can also improve the texture and tone of the skin by promoting cellular regeneration, reducing inflammation, and stimulating the production of hyaluronic acid, another important component of healthy skin.
How does Acupuncture reduce inflammation? Acupuncture is believed to reduce inflammation in several ways:
Modulating the immune system: Acupuncture has been shown to modulate the activity of immune cells, which play a key role in the body's inflammatory response. Acupuncture can help to reduce the activity of pro-inflammatory immune cells, while increasing the activity of anti-inflammatory immune cells.
Stimulating the release of anti-inflammatory molecules: Acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the release of molecules such as adenosine and opioids, which have anti-inflammatory effects in the body.
Increasing blood flow: Acupuncture can help to increase blood flow to the affected area, which can help to reduce inflammation by bringing in immune cells and nutrients needed for healing.
Reducing oxidative stress: Acupuncture has been shown to reduce oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to inflammation. This may be due to the antioxidant effects of some of the molecules released during acupuncture.
Cosmetic Acupuncture treatments at Vancouver Wellness Studio: Waterfront Spa also include red-light therapy. Red light therapy is also a non-invasive and painless treatment that uses red and near-infrared light to penetrate the skin and promote healing, reduce inflammation, and improve skin health. The benefits of red light therapy for the skin include:
Increased collagen production: Red light therapy has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen, which is a protein that is essential for skin health. Collagen helps to improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and improve overall skin texture.
Reduced inflammation: Red light therapy has anti-inflammatory effects and can help reduce swelling, redness, and irritation in the skin. This makes it a useful treatment for acne, rosacea, and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Improved wound healing: Red light therapy has been shown to speed up the healing of wounds and injuries, including those caused by acne, surgery, or injury. This is because red light therapy stimulates the production of new cells and increases blood flow to the affected area.
Reduced sun damage: Red light therapy can help repair sun damage by stimulating collagen production and reducing inflammation. It may also help to reduce the appearance of sunspots and other signs of sun damage.
Improved skin tone and texture: Red light therapy can improve overall skin tone and texture by increasing blood flow and promoting cellular regeneration. This can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and leave the skin looking smoother and more radiant.
Overall, red light therapy is a safe and effective way to improve skin health, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. It’s great to pair with other skin treatments, such as cosmetic acupuncture or skincare products, to enhance their effects.
Is Cosmetic Acupuncture painful? Cosmetic acupuncture is generally not considered painful, although everyone's experience may vary. During a cosmetic acupuncture session, fine, hair-thin needles are inserted into specific points on the face and body. The needles used in cosmetic acupuncture are much smaller than the needles used in traditional acupuncture, and are typically inserted very shallowly into the skin.
Most people find the sensation of the needles to be very mild, and may feel a slight tingling or dull ache as the needles are inserted. Some people may also feel a slight pressure or warmth at the site of the needle. However, any discomfort is usually brief and subsides once the needles are in place.
It's important to note that the experience of cosmetic acupuncture may vary depending on individual sensitivity and the skill of the practitioner. If you are concerned about discomfort during the treatment, it may be helpful to discuss your concerns with a licensed acupuncturist beforehand. They may be able to adjust the treatment to make it more comfortable for you.
If you're looking for a natural and non-invasive way to improve your skin health, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, and promote overall wellness, then cosmetic acupuncture may be worth considering. However, it's important to note that results may vary depending on individual circumstances, and it's important to consult with a licensed acupuncturist before undergoing any new treatment.
