Janene Mitchell, LAc
Cosmetic Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine

Welcome

Cosmetic Acupuncture has a long history of use and has been researched in China (see below).  Very thin sterile needles are used in specific points on the body and face to stimulate and improve the flow and quality of energy, or Qi. From a Western perspective it promotes healing by increasing circulation, reducing inflammation, stimulating the immune system and improving the tone of facial muscles.

The benefits of Cosmetic Acupuncture include:

  • Relaxing tight, tense facial muscles that cause wrinkling
  • Strengthening lax, weak muscles to tone and lift
  • Increasing blood flow to nourish skin cells and create a glowing complexion 
  • Supporting lymphatic drainage to reduce puffiness
  • Promoting collagen production to fill in fine lines and reduce wrinkles
  • Clearing inflammation to reduce redness, rosacea & mild acne 
  • Slowing down collagen degradation
  • Addressing blotchiness and hyperpigmentation
  • Promoting hydration on a cellular level to nourish dry skin
  • Speeding up recovery after surgical procedures
  • Strengthening your immune system
  • Relieving sinus congestion 
  • Improving digestion and elimination
  • Reducing jaw tension
  • Stress and tension relief - deeper sleep and better able to handle stress

What is a Cosmetic Acupuncture treatment like?  Overall, extremely relaxing...like a visit to the spa.

Aromatherapy - Essential oils may be applied to your skin, if appropriate - chosen for relaxation, adrenal support, stress reduction, to enhance circulation and reduce puffiness.

Full body acupuncture - A few needles will be placed in points on your legs or arms, hands or feet, or upper chest.  A gentle facial cleanser will be applied followed by the insertion of very thin, high-quality needles into facial muscles and lines as needed.  After resting for a while, all needles will be removed and a cooling facial toner will be applied to your skin. 

A deeply relaxing facial massage - People often fall asleep during this part of the treatment.  Your nervous system has a chance to reset.  Releasing muscle tension is key to preventing wrinkles and improving muscle tone.  Increasing circulation brings important nutrients and oxygen to nourish your skin on a cellular level.

Nutritional and lifestyle tips to support skin health, including a self-massage facial routine for home.

 

Some Research:

Cosmetic Acupuncture

Meridional Cosmetology: Report of 300 Cases with Discussion of Underlying Mechanism

The first landmark study of facial acupuncture found that “among 300 cases treated in China with facial acupuncture, 90% had marked effects with one course of 10 treatments”(Zhang, Q. 1996).

Benefits demonstrated improvement in:  skin texture, color, elasticity, wrinkle reduction & overall rejuvenation.

“Results were not merely confined to the face, as facial acupuncture virtually always includes work to address the entire body and organ systems, as well as the face.”

 

Acupuncture & Dermatology

Clinical trials and case reports of patients using acupuncture have been reported in the areas of treating atopic dermatitis and itch, urticaria, herpes zoster at various stages, psoriasis, acne, melasma, hyperhidrosis and promoting wound healing.