What is Cosmetic Acupuncture?

Cosmetic Acupuncture is the use of an age-old treatment as an alternative to the traditional facelift – it is also known as "acupuncture facial rejuvenation", "facial acupuncture" or an "acupuncture facelift."

Acupuncture is completely safe and has no risks or side effects apart from the possibility of slight bruising. Don't expect an actual "facelift"; the benefits of facial acupuncture are not magical and will not be noticed overnight.

How does it work?
Rather than cutting the skin or using harsh chemical peels, acupuncture provides more subtle results that are noticed over time. A practitioner will insert tiny, thin needles into wrinkles and frown lines. The needles stimulate energy to flow around the face; blood rushes to the surface, and the muscles relax. The muscles then tighten, which decreases sagging of facial skin. The needles also stimulate the cells to create new collagen fibers under wrinkles, filling in fine lines.

A recent study by the International Journal of Clinical acupuncture claims that 90% of those who tried facial acupuncture saw positive results such as softening of facial lines, improvement in skin tone, reduction of under-eye circles, and a general facial glow.

Prices and number of treatments vary from one practitioner to the next. One acupuncturist advertises two treatments per week for five weeks, at a cost of $1,200 in the USA. He uses 60-70 needles in each 45-minute session, which also varies depending on the practitioner.

When searching for a practitioner, be wary to choose someone with a license who has studied with a qualified teacher.

Other Benefits of Cosmetic Acupuncture
Another benefit of cosmetic acupuncture is that while patients are seeking treatment for cosmetic concerns, acupuncture has a positive effect on the person as a whole. Traditional acupuncture has been used for stress, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and a whole list of other modern complaints. It is not hard to imagine that when one's general well-being improves, the appearance of one's skin will improve too.

The results of cosmetic acupuncture are relatively short-lived, lasting only around 3-5 years, yet the average facelift is far from permanent. Several years down the road, the effects of ageing will once again begin to show on the face, no matter how many procedures someone goes through to halt the ageing process.

See our A-Z guide entry on other anti-ageing treatments or acupuncture.

To find a practitioner who performs cosmetic acupunture, click on the town nearest your above or enter your postcode and search.