Facial acupuncture continues to be lauded as an effective anti-aging treatment, a holistic alternative to facelift surgery and other cosmetic treatments that involve the use of technological devices and heat energy to alter the skin. Practitioners of cosmetic acupuncture believe that the treatments help stimulate collagen production, strengthen the skin cells, and reduce the risk of wrinkles. However, critics contend that this treatment does not cause significant collagen stimulation that would affect wrinkles or fine lines. Here’s a close look at the benefits and drawbacks of this non-surgical holistic ‘facelift’:

Cosmetic acupuncture is designed to target certain ‘zones’ of the face and trigger collagen production so the treated area becomes smoother and appears more toned. Practitioners of this holistic anti aging treatment target specific muscles in the face to create a reaction; within days and weeks of treatment, the facial tissues may begin to contract and tighten, thereby smoothing out the skin and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

Supporters of cosmetic acupuncture believe that the treatment offers both physical and mental benefits. The treatment is designed to stimulate new skin cell production, and may even help to minimize age spots and even out a rugged complexion. The relaxing procedure may also get rid of energy blockages around the face and lymph glands, and this can have a positive effect on the person’s well-being. The most marked improvements to the skin include a natural glow, reduction of under-eye circles, and a softening of lines and wrinkles.

 

Other benefits include:

While cosmetic acupuncture treatments promise many benefits without requiring any incisions or heat energy, critics of the treatment believe that there are no real skin benefits beyond the healing aspects of acupuncture. The small needles used in the treatment may not trigger collagen production enough to fill out wrinkles or strengthen the skin, and the frequent treatments may be necessary to see noticeable results.

 

Cosmetic acupuncture can be more costly in the long-run than conventional anti aging treatments; most people need to undergo a series of treatments to see any drastic changes in their skin and generally health. Cosmetic acupuncture may not be as effective for those who want to eliminate wrinkles, fine lines and age spots for good. Still, it offers several health and wellness benefits for those who prefer to explore holistic treatments over conventional surgery that may offer permanent, or longer lasting results.

 

Conventional treatments that offer minimal pain and downtime, but can get rid of wrinkles and the signs of aging permanently, include microcurrent facials, microdermabrasion, and photofacials that work from the inside out to stimulate collagen production.

 

Learn more about facial rejuvenation in our information guide, or consult with an anti-aging specialist in your area to find out more about the potential benefits of holistic anti-aging treatments compared to conventional facelift treatments.