Acupuncture has its roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and continues to be a popular choice in alternative therapy for stress reduction and weight loss. However, some practitioners believe acupuncture techniques can be used to enhance the face as well.  

The acupuncture facelift is a facial rejuvenation procedure that can increase circulation, stimulate the development of healthy skin cells, and reduce fine lines. Acupuncturists who perform this specialty treatment can now be found at medical spas and wellness centers across the country, and it’s one cosmetic procedure that may offer an alternative to facials and other skin rejuvenation treatments.  

Does the acupuncture facelift really work? Here’s a close look at this centuries-old practice that may bring you a step closer to that fountain of youth:  

How an Acupuncture Facelift Works  

Facial acupuncture, also known as facial renewal acupuncture, has been used for thousands of years in Chinese Medicine, a holistic treatment that aims to strengthen vital organs throughout the body. Fine needles are inserted around key muscles and wrinkles to encourage healing and stimulate the cells. High levels of collagen are the key to younger, healthier looking skin and boosting collagen production is the goal of many laser resurfacing treatments and facial rejuvenation techniques. Acupuncture may help target key areas of the body that trigger collagen production, leaving you with a healthy glow and brighter skin.  

The American Cosmetic Acupuncture Association does ask consumers and practitioners to avoid using the term ‘facelift’ to describe facial renewal acupuncture because there are no incisions or sutures involved. Facial ‘toning’ may be a better way to describe this process that can leave skin looking healthy and revitalized.   

According to Dr. Mao of Tao of Wellness in Santa Monica, California, results depend largely on the state of someone’s internal health. Since the organs help regulate cell production and support a healthy metabolism, bringing them into balance can lead to improvements on the face. (Source:  Acupuncture.com).  

Key Benefits of an Acupuncture Facelift  

Tighter, healthier and more toned skin are only a few of the benefits of an acupuncture facelift -- and key reasons why celebrities and spa-goers alike are quickly making appointments for their next facial treatment.

Other benefits of the acupuncture facelift include:  

• Tightened pores
• Reduction of fine lines
• Increased collagen production
• Reduced acne breakouts
• Improved facial muscle tone
• Brighter complexion          

What to Expect with an Acupuncture Facelift  

The acupuncture facelift treatment is a relatively quick and painless session that leaves patients with a slight tingling sensation. This is a natural outcome of nerve and muscle stimulation, and is part of the healing and rejuvenation process.  

Acupuncture facelifts won’t lead to a drastic change in the same way as BOTOX injections or microdermabrasion may, but do offer skin tightening and rejuvenation benefits. According to Dr. Zee Lo of the Total Health Care Center in Los Angeles, California, “the patient is actually getting younger from the inside out because the patient is being treated according to the theories of Chinese medicine....it's a lot more than just skin deep! And, none of the potential side effects of regular procedures such as plastic surgery, BOTOX injections, and dermabrasions.” (Source:  DrZeelo.com)  

Finding the right acupuncture practitioner is the first step to getting started with the right treatment program. Learn more about facial renewal acupuncture treatments for total mind and body wellness, or find an acupuncturist in your area who may offer acupuncture facials and other holistic treatments.