Acupuncture is often thought of as a type of alternative medicine, used to alleviate pain and stress in situations where other approaches prove unsuccessful. Acupuncture for cosmetic purposes, often called facial acupuncture, focuses on the face and skin. It’s less well-known than other types, but it can improve skin appearance and support overall skin health.
Ancient acupuncture
We do not know the exact origin of acupuncture. The earliest records show it was practiced in Ancient China. It then travelled to neighbouring countries, such as Korea and Japan. The underlying theory behind traditional acupuncture is that ill health is caused by disturbances or imbalances in the body’s qi, or energy. Qi flows through channels known as meridians, but it may become blocked or disrupted. In this case, the insertion and manipulation of needles into particular acupoints may help restore its natural flow. Modern acupuncture continues to focus on restoring the body’s internal balance and encouraging self-healing.
Modern cosmetic acupuncture
Our skin gains its structure and texture from a protein known as collagen, which is produced within the body. Anything that breaks the skin causes a surge in collagen production to support wound repair. Acupuncture needles are detected as an injury even though they are too fine to cause damage. The body sends collagen to the point of insertion. This can refresh the skin that is already there, reducing lines, wrinkles, and blemishes to make it smoother and more supple. It may also alleviate double chins, bags under the eyes, and other signs of aging or tiredness. The appearance and texture of your skin should both be improved. This means that not only will you look better, but your skin will be better able to withstand wind, sun, and other stressors to protect the rest of your body more effectively.
Another way that acupuncture of all kinds, not just specifically cosmetic, may help with skincare is through its ability to help you relax. You step into the soothing treatment room. The acupuncturist gently guides you toward calm. Muscle tension begins to ease. With it, frown lines may soften and fade.
The importance of skincare
It is easy to dismiss the importance of skincare to our overall health. Our focus tends to be on factors such as blood pressure and cholesterol. However, skin is the main barrier that protects the rest of our body from injury and infection. If it is damaged, then that puts everything else at risk. There is also a wide range of skin conditions that can cause significant discomfort. Good skincare may help you avoid the worst itching and rashes.
Skincare becomes particularly important as we grow older. The fact that skin is our main external protector means it takes the brunt of everyday wear and tear and exposure to various stressors. Over the years, this leads to the skin becoming thinner as lines, wrinkles, and blemishes increase. At the same time, age leads to a reduction in collagen production, meaning it is harder to repair and regenerate the skin if it is damaged.
Why choose cosmetic acupuncture over other forms of skincare?
There are many options for trying to improve the appearance and texture of your skin. The fact that acupuncture has seen such an increase in popularity shows that it has advantages over many of the alternatives. Check the ingredients list on creams and lotions at your local pharmacy. You’ll find many chemicals with unfamiliar names. Some can be harsh on the skin. Others may be toxic if overused.
When it comes to more serious forms of cosmetic treatment, the risks are even higher. For example, Botox involves injecting a literal toxin into your face, and can come with significant side effects. Any form of surgery comes with risks of bleeding, blood clots, and infection. These are highly invasive, often complicated, and invariably expensive procedures that will make many people feel uncomfortable. In contrast, acupuncture needles are too fine to damage the skin and, provided that they are properly sterilized, come with minimal risk of complications. The mechanism does not involve inserting foreign chemicals into the body, but instead simply encourages your skin to trigger its natural healing processes.
Conclusion
The demand for skincare therapies that can make us look younger without potentially harmful side effects is high. Cosmetic acupuncture is a non-toxic, non-invasive approach that uses ancient techniques to encourage the body to repair itself, rejuvenating your appearance and improving your overall skin health.