NICOLE PETERSON, LAC, MAcOM
COSMETIC ACUPUNCTURE
A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO SKIN REJUVENATION
Cosmetic Acupuncture also known as Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture is a holistic non-surgical, toxin-free therapy that reduces the signs of aging by treating both the face directly and the underlying causes of aging. More than just a cosmetic procedure, it is a revitalization method that makes the whole person look and feel younger.
ANCIENT TECHNIQUES FOR THE MODERN WOMAN
With celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, Kim Kardashian, Angelina Jolie, and Jennifer Aniston utilizing cosmetic acupuncture to achieve a more youthful glow, this natural and holistic approach to anti-aging has grown tremendously in popularity.
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EFFECTS OF COSMETIC ACUPUNCTURE​
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Improvement in muscle tone and skin contraction on the face and neck
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Increase of collagen and elastin production to diminish wrinkles
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Reduction of sagging of the face and neck
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Reduction of puffiness
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Regulation of hormones to treat acne
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Improvement in facial coloring by increasing blood and lymph movement
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Reduction of stress evident in the face
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Brightening of the eyes
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Relaxation of muscle tightness in the face and neck
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Improvement of other health conditions (insomnia, digestive complaints, low back pain, etc.)
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Detoxification of the face and body through increased lymphatic drainage
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Improvement in the underlying causes of aging and illness​
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HOW COSMETIC ACUPUNCTURE WORKS
Acupuncture is a therapy that improves the circulation of blood, fluids, and lymph flowing through the face and body. Thin, sterile needles are placed in specific points on the face, ears, and limbs to manipulate nerve, blood and lymph flow. High quality facial oil blends are used and recommended for their therapeutic effect on the signs of aging.
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According to Chinese medical theory, inner health is seen in one's outer appearance because health and beauty are inseparable. Correcting internal imbalances is the best way to treat outer signs of aging. Acupuncture and facial massage are all a part of Cosmetic Acupuncture treatment.
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Traditional Chinese medicine describes the functions of the organs differently from Western medicine. Rather than seeing them as separate body parts with purely physiological functions, Chinese medicine sees them as interconnected systems that affect our physical and emotional health and appearance.
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The Heart's function is to move blood through the body, promote deep sleep, and maintain the brightness of the eyes. A weak Heart can cause facial swelling and dulling of the eyes. If sleep is affected, dark eye circles and puffiness can result.
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The Lungs are responsible for the movement of oxygen and fluids in the body. If they are impaired, the skin can lack moisture resulting in wrinkles and dry skin.
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An imbalance in the Liver can cause stagnation of blood flow in the face leading to dark spots and wrinkles.
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If the Spleen and Stomach function of regulating the transportation of food and body fluids is impaired, the face will be puffy or sagging.
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The Kidneys regulate body fluids and store a substance called essence, our basic life energy that maintains health and youth. Insufficient Kidney function can cause eye puffiness, dark circles under the eyes, wrinkles and thinning hair.
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Based on symptoms and observations, a Chinese medicine practitioner can determine the underlying imbalances in organs and pathways that cause aging. Each individual has a unique constitution and imbalance; therefore, each person receives different acupuncture points. For example, a person with a pale, sagging face would be treated different from someone with red, puffy face.​
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HISTORY
As early as 1100 BC, Chinese medicine was used to treat skin conditions as well as to prevent illness and aging. One famous text from 770 B.C. describes herbal therapies specific for anti-aging. In 200 AD, various texts discuss acupuncture techniques for facial rejuvenation. As early as 960 AD during the Sung Dynasty, the Empress and the Emperor's concubines used facial rejuvenation techniques to maintain a youthful appearance.​
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HOW SOON WILL I SEE RESULTS?
Each person responds differently depending on one's age, overall health, and lifestyle. Most people see noticeable and lasting results after the third treatment.
In 1999, a research study published in the International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture was done using facial acupuncture on 300 people. It revealed that after a series of 12 treatments, 90% of its participants saw results that included better complexion, decreased wrinkles, and general rejuvenation not confined to the face.
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After completing the series, results generally last one year.
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NUMBER OF TREATMENTS
You will receive the most effect from Cosmetic Acupuncture if you commit to a series of 10-12 treatments. Once a week for 10-12 weeks is optimal.
When you are scheduling, make sure that you can receive treatment for 10-12 weeks in a row. Skipping more than one week is not recommended.
After your series is completed, maintenance treatments are recommended 4 times a year.​
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COSMETIC ACUPUNCTURE AND OTHER NON-SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Botox, peels, collagen injections, laser and microdermabrasion focus on symptoms rather than internal imbalances that cause aging. Cosmetic Acupuncture treats the whole person by balancing one's internal organ and nerve pathways to create a more youthful appearance and healthy body. In addition, there are no side effects unlike many Western therapies.
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If you have had cosmetic procedures or surgery (botox, face lifts, injections, peels), it is best to wait 3-4 weeks to receive Cosmetic Acupuncture.
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PEOPLE WHO HAVE THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS ARE NOT GOOD CANDIDATES FOR COSMETIC ACUPUNCTURE:
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heart disorders
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high blood pressure
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pituitary disorders
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diabetes
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pregnancy
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acute herpes outbreak
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acute allergic attack
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people taking blood thinning medication​
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COSMETIC ACUPUNCTURE VERSUS MICRONEEDLING:
Cosmetic facial acupuncture combined with microneedling (not in the same session) is the best choice for relaxing the face muscles, moving lymph, toning the face, smoothing out wrinkles, dark spots, and acne scars. Learn more about the differences here.
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NANONEEDLING
Nanoneedling is a cosmetic procedure that involves using a small, handheld device to create tiny punctures in the the skin. This device, which is often called a nanoneedling pen, has a series of ultra-fine needles that penetrate the top layer of the skin to stimulate collagen production and increase the absorption of skincare products.
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Unlike traditional microneedling, which uses longer needles to create deeper punctures in the skin, nanoneedling is less invasive and targets only the top layer of the skin. This makes it a gentler, painless option for people with sensitive skin, as well as those who are new to cosmetic needling.
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Nanoneedling is used to enhance the overall texture and tone of the skin. Most importantly, it is used to help growth factor regenerative serums penetrate deeper into the skin. At our clinic, we use medical grade stem cell growth factor products called AnteAGE in combination with nanoneedling. The procedure typically takes around 15-20 minutes to complete, and there is usually no downtime or recovery period needed afterwards. Nanoneedling is the perfect addition to a cosmetic acupuncture session.
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PRICING
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WHAT TO EXPECT
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On your initial visit, we will review in detail your concerns and health history. All aspects of your health are important to achieving radiate skin including diet, lifestyle, physical and emotional health.
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True beauty starts from the inside out, so your treatments are customized for your face and overall constitution. Nutrition and herbs may be recommended to optimize your facial results.
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Initial and follow-up treatments consist of the following:
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face and body acupuncture
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facial and neck gua sha massage for lymphatic drainage
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AnteAGE Anti-Aging Stem Cell Growth Factors application with nanoneedling only (optional add on)
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