Facial fillers and Botox have become incredibly popular over the years, with millions of individuals undergoing each treatment. But there might be a natural alternative that can help treat the signs of aging and potentially help with other health issues.
Enter facial acupuncture, a treatment that falls under the larger acupuncture umbrella, according to Amrit Singh, a registered acupuncturist and founder of 6 Babe Beauty in Toronto, Canada. Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine that is a key aspect of traditional Chinese remedies; the treatment uses needles to stimulate balance and flow of chi, which is “the circulating life force whose existence and properties are the basis of much Chinese philosophy and medicine,” according to the English Oxford Dictionary.
Facial acupuncture, or “cosmetic acupuncture,” as it’s sometimes called, is “a little bit more beauty-focused in that we are putting needles in the face to stimulate collagen production, improve skin quality, help heal acne, help heal acne scars, but we are also still using body points,” Singh said.
A typical facial acupuncture treatment involves about 40 needles in the face and 12 needles on the body, though that can vary depending on an individual’s skin goals. Needles are left in the skin for about 20 to 25 minutes. Singh added that the treatment is part of a holistic approach to healing, as it’s said to be able to address skin concerns as well as things like digestive issues or anxiety.
Like acupuncture, this treatment has been around for thousands of years, but in the past it was typically reserved for the upper echelons of Chinese society. Now it’s becoming more widely accessible.
Is facial acupuncture really a natural alternative to Botox?
Here’s what the acupuncturists say:
“Yes and no,” Krecolowich said, noting facial acupuncture won’t prevent muscle movement in your face. Botox, on the other hand, temporarily paralyzes muscles.
“I prefer the cosmetic acupuncture because you’re getting the other health benefits as well from it, and again, you’re boosting your own collagen production, which you aren’t getting with the Botox,” she said, adding that she’s seen great results with some of her clients.
Singh said that she agrees facial acupuncture can be “an excellent option if you don’t want Botox” but acknowledged that some individuals like (and might prefer) the effects of Botox.
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