
Vania Bailey Award Winning Make Up Artist receiving acupuncture in the face for facial rejuvenation.
(Photograph copyright Tim Whittaker Photography)
Many patients contact The Acupuncture Clinic – Hastings with questions about Cosmetic Acupuncture for facial rejuvenation. Heiko Lade lecturer in cosmetic acupuncture answers some of the questions.
Do the needles in the face hurt?
No, the needles used on the face are extra thin.
Are the needles put in any other areas of the body?
Yes, needles are also inserted into the arms, legs, stomach and back.
How many needles are used?
It varies, but commonly about half a dozen on the extremities, sometimes 1 or 2 in the stomach and up to 6 on the face.
How long are the sessions?
Sessions are generally 1 hour long.
What happens once the needles have been put in?
The patient is encouraged to just relax and avoid talking or reading. Many patients fall asleep once the needles are in.
How long does it take to see results?
Generally softening of lines is noticed after 4-5 weeks of treatment. This ties in with western medical theory as this is how long it takes for new collagen to be produced. Improvement in complexion and tone are noticable after a week.
How long is the recommended course of treatment? How many sessions per week is suggested?
It is suggested that patients have two sessions per week but patients can choose to have just one session a week. Ideally, patients should aim for a course of two sessions per week for eight weeks.
What facial skin rejuvenation signs may be noticed after the course of treatment?
The complexion improves with smoother skin and increased luster. The overall tone of the face can improve giving the face a more youthful appearance. Crows feet tend to improve first and then the deeper lines going from the corner of the mouth to the nose. The horizontal lines on the forehead are easier to treat than the deep thrown lines between the eyebrows. The sagging area under the neck is the most difficult area to treat.
Which age group would benefit the most from acupuncture for facial rejuvenation?
Acupuncture treatment for facial rejuvenation tends to give the most noticeable benefits to people in the 40-55 age groups. Of course, if starting acupuncture treatment for facial rejuvenation when younger, it will help prevent wrinkles developing.
Are there any other health benefits from the cosmetic acupuncture?
There can be decreased puffiness under the eyes, improved sleep, more energy and an increased sense of well-being.
Can you have the acupuncture for facial rejuvenation and weight management at the same time? Is there any extra charge?
Yes, you can have acupuncture treatment for cosmetic purposes as well as assist with weight management at the same time. There is no extra charge.
Are there any risks associated with cosmetic acupuncture?
The acupuncture needling methods used in cosmetic acupuncture and facial rejuvenation are the same as those used with treating any other health condition. Occasionally there is mild bruising in small areas that goes away after a few days. It is advisable if you are taking any medications like aspirin and warfarin to let your practitioner know.
Is there any substance put onto the needles or is there anything rubbed or massaged onto the skin?
No, the needles are single use disposable and pre-sterilized and made from pure stainless steel. The facial rejuvenation acupuncture techniques used at The Acupuncture Clinic – Hastings as taught by Heiko Lade at his seminars do not involve applying any oils or creams onto the face. However other practitioners may in addition the acupuncture, use oils and creams combined with facial massage techniques as part of their treatment.
I don’t live in Hawkes Bay and would like to see one of the practitioners that have attended Heiko Lade’s seminars on cosmetic acupuncture. Can he recommend anyone?
Yes, Heiko can refer you to acupuncture practitioners in Whangarei, Auckland, Tauranga, Hamilton, Masterton, Wellington and Christchurch. Please contact The Acupuncture Clinic – Hastings for appointments or referrals.
Can you suggest any other reading about facial acupuncture?