|
|
Facial Acupuncture |
WHAT IS IT? In facial acupuncture, fine needles are inserted into the face and body to nourish and stimulate the internal organs and thereby benefit the cells, skin and muscles of the face. Acupuncture has proven benefits for the treatment of a wide variety of conditions. The same principles, of rebalancing the flow of energy and blood in the body, apply to facial acupuncture. IS IT A FACELIFT? No. Acupuncture can treat fine lines, puffiness, redness, dark shadows and 'bags' under the eyes but it cannot have the same impact as surgery. It will not instantly wipe away every sign of age: the effects are more natural, as the imbalances causing your facial condition are addressed from within. Furthermore, it is a safe, gentle and less invasive treatment, without chemicals or injections. WHAT HAPPENS? Fine needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points on the face and body and given some gentle manipulation to stimulate the flow of blood and energy (Qi). The benefits of this stimulation can sometimes be seen right away on the face. The needles stimulate the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord and brain to influence the body's own internal regulation. Therefore this is a whole-body treatment, not just a cosmetic procedure. The condition of the internal organs is reflected in the face, and treating any imbalances in these will have a positive effect on the complexion. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE? The first treatment lasts about an hour and a half as a full history is taken. Subsequent treatments take up to one hour, and each session ends with a short, facial tui na massage. A course of ten treatments is standard, with the occasional follow-up treatment as needed. If you have been a sun worshipper or smoker for many years, more treatments may be needed to achieve results. This may seem a long commitment but it has taken years for your face to arrive at its current condition, so the combined effects of the years, the sun and your lifestyle will not be reversed overnight. ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS? The side effects tend to be positive ones. As the whole person is treated, not just the face, the effect is a general re-balancing. You may experience better sleep, or improved digestion, more energy, or just feel better in yourself. DOES IT HURT? Surprisingly, no! If any of the needles are uncomfortable they are removed. You will feel something, but rather than pain it is more likely to be a tingling, or warm, dull, or numb sensation. Most people find the treatment a very relaxing experience. There is a slight chance of minor bruising but needles on the face are manipulated less than on the body, to minimise this possibility. IS IT FOR YOU? If you want to give your face and general well-being a boost, but don't want to go down the route of injections or the scalpel, then acupuncture could be for you. |