Facial Acupuncture is a way of managing your stress, taking some time out to relax and rest. While you're doing that, an Acupuncturist works on improving your complexion and nourishing your skin.
It's created interest particularly in groups of mothers and peri-menopausal women, as these milestones start to change the elasticity and tone of our skin due to hormone changes.
But it can also benefit men and women if they have issues including TMJ pain, Trigeminal Neuralgia, Acne or Bell's Palsy.
There's many curious questions about Facial Acupuncture and Cosmetic Acupuncture.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions by Australians.
What is Facial acupuncture?
Facial acupuncture, also known as cosmetic acupuncture or facial rejuvenation acupuncture, is considered a non-invasive procedure compared to some other facial or 'facelift' techniques.
Facial Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the face to promote skin health and reduce signs of ageing. The technique can also be used for muscular tension or weakness in the facial muscles.
You can read more about it in detail here: What is Cosmetic Acupuncture?
Is acupuncture regulated in Australia?
Yes, acupuncture is regulated in Australia.
Practitioners offering cosmetic acupuncture must be fully qualified Acupuncturists and registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). If they're advertising that they do Cosmetic Acupuncture or Facial rejuvenation acupuncture, I would expect they have completed additional training specific to needling the face. You can always ask your practitioner what extra training they've completed.
What are the cosmetic benefits?
Facial acupuncture for cosmetic enhancement aims to minimise fine lines and stress lines, improve skin tone and texture, increase facial muscle tone, and promote a healthy, radiant complexion. If one carries a lot of stress in their face, Acupuncture can also relax muscles of the face holding tension. You can read more about Cosmetic Acupuncture here:
What does Facial Acupuncture Do?
Cosmetic Acupuncture for Jowls
Cosmetic Acupuncture for Eye bags
Is facial acupuncture covered by private health insurance?
Cosmetic acupuncture is generally considered an Acupuncture procedure and may be covered by Extras health insurance policies. It's recommended to check with your insurance provider for specific details on your policy. But if you do have Acupuncture coverage then you can use your allocation for this type of treatment. Facial Acupuncture is also a holistic treatment, often addressing other health issues for the client eg. not being able to sleep, stress, bloating, digestive upset.
This is because the skin condition and particularly on the face often reflects the whole body and what it's dealing with - stress, gut health, lack of sleep, nutrition.
Is facial acupuncture painful?
The needles used in cosmetic acupuncture are very thin. In my practice, I use much thinner needles than what I use on your body and muscles. They range from 0.18 down to the smallest being 0.12mm wide for eye areas, as there is thin skin here and its very delicate. We want to be able to apply needles to the face gently, minimising the risk of bruising. A fully qualified practitioner will take into consideration the area they're needling and adjust the needle size and gauge accordingly. Most clients experience minimal discomfort. Sensations may range from a slight prickling to a mild ache, if at all, again depending on the area. Around the mouth, there are more nerve endings and so points near the mouth can be more sensitive.
Are there any side effects or risks?
Yes, as with most health procedures and specifically to the skin, there are some minor risks. The main one being bruising as mentioned above. But with the right training and continuation of developing the technique, an Acupuncturist knows the risks and knows how to manage them or minimise them. This often includes using the right type of needle in the appropriate location, and knowing correct depth for various areas. Understanding the surface and underlying anatomy and to avoid any visible surface veins. Again, the intention is to benefit your complexion, so a gentle approach is a sensible one. Consent should always be given before any facial acupuncture begins.
If there is any minor bruising, using arnica cream is advised for the next few days to help the bruise resolve quickly.
The positive side effects may be feeling relaxed in the face muscles and around the jaw. It often gives a full body response of deep relaxation.
If you're on Sydney's Northern Beaches and are interested in trying Facial Acupuncture you can reach me here on my Contact page.
