Facial 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. 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. 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. 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.
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. 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.
Treatment includes:
Health assessment & East Asian Medical Pattern Diagnosis
Balancing body points
Hot towel facial cleanse
Facial acupuncture points
Facial cupping
Facial Gua Sha
Arm, hand and shoulder massage
Skincare product application
Redlight therapy for face
Beneficial for:
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
Meet Our Providers
Dr. Emily Morris, ND, MSAOM, L.Ac. (She/Her)
Emily Morris, ND, MSAOM, L.Ac. is a naturopathic physician and acupuncturist at VWS. Dr. Morris focuses on patient-centered care with a background in nutrition, Naturopathic Medicine, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. She was born and raised in Ohio and always wanted to be a part of the healthcare field. She discovered Naturopathic Medicine through her step-mom’s cancer journey while in high school. She was inspired by her Naturopathic Doctor’s holistic approach to medicine and decided this was her life’s calling. After graduating from The Ohio State University with a BS in Nutrition Sciences and a minor in Integrative Approaches to Health and Wellness, she moved across the country to pursue her Naturopathic Medicine degree at Bastyr University. Due to her experience working with an Oriental Medicine Doctor and multiple acupuncturists in college, she pursued a dual degree with a Master in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. Throughout medical school, she was shaped into a physician and learned how to heal her own ailments with the help of holistic practices. Dr. Morris understands how devastating health issues can be and can relate especially to those who have experienced the loss of loved-ones from terminal illnesses. With her background, Dr. Morris is a strong ally for a patient’s health journey. She will work together with her patients to find their barriers to healing, and discover personalized treatment plans that work with their resources, values, and beliefs. Dr. Morris has clinical interests in gastroenterology, women’s health, dermatology, and mental health conditions. With 5 years of camp counseling experience, she has also developed a clinical interest in working with teens and young adults. She provides integrative primary care and offers Western and Eastern healing modalities in addition to conventional diagnosis and treatment options. She loves herbalism, mind-body medicine, energetic medicine, nature-cure philosophy, and nutrition. Dr. Morris looks forward to meeting you!