Acupuncture has been used as a beauty aid for centuries in the East, but it has only recently gained popularity in the western world. More and more full-service spas are beginning to offer cosmetic acupuncture on their menu of services, and facial rejuvenation, or the acupuncture facelift, is garnering attention in mainstream media from USA Today to the Rachael Ray Show.
The basic premise upon which any kind of acupuncture treatment operates is that there are meridians of energy in the body, or qi, that become blocked and lead to illness, or in this case, wrinkled skin. Poor circulation at the skin's surface and inadequate collagen production can be a result of this interrupted qi, and can lead to poor skin health and premature aging.
A skilled acupuncturist will perform an initial assessment in which he or she will identify the causes of the skin damage and develop a treatment plan, which includes inserting tiny needles into specific points on the face designed to restore balance and energy at the skin's surface. Facial rejuvenation with acupuncture will also target improving circulation and collagen production in the skin.
While the results are not as dramatic as a surgical facelift, cosmetic acupuncture can offer noticeable improvements to the skin's appearance. According to Accupuncture.com "The remedy cosmetic acupuncture may offer is the reduction or erasure of fine lines and the softening of deeper ones. Additionally, patients may experience the firming of jowls and a reduction in the size of under-eye bags. It is not unusual for clients to report enhanced skin tone, increased energy and eyes that sparkle."
The American Cosmetic Acupuncture Association does not support the use of the term facelift in association with cosmetic acupuncture treatments because it can be misleading. Cosmetic acupuncture cannot restructure the skin, but it can enhance the tone, brightness, and overall health of the skin with repeated treatment.
Although cost and treatment programs will vary from practitioner to practitioner, cosmetic rejuvenation typically costs about half of what a surgical facelift costs and requires 10 non-invasive treatments. Skin that is more severely damaged due to smoking or skin damage may require more intensive treatment over a longer period of time. It is best to consult a trusted acupuncturist, who will be able to provide an estimate and treatment plan for your specific skin type.