Thousands of Australians are turning to acupuncture, a key component of traditional Chinese medicine, to fight the signs of ageing.
The treatment has been used for over 2,500 years to treat a variety of ailments, but it’s become an increasingly popular non-surgical anti-ageing beauty trend ever since celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow adopted facial acupuncture as an alternative to Botox.
While there appears to be a lack of high-quality evidence supporting the effectiveness of this type of procedure as an anti-ageing treatment in the Western world, acupuncture facials are still being hailed on social media as a “natural facelift” that can quickly refresh your appearance with minimal side effects or downtime.
The treatment, which costs between $250 and $360 per session, involves inserting thin needles into specific areas of the face and is said to increase blood flow, stimulate lymphatic drainage and boost collagen production.
“Acupuncture facelift or cosmetic acupuncture is a specialized treatment in traditional Chinese medicine that aims to rejuvenate the skin and improve the appearance of the face without surgical intervention,” said Dr Marina Kristof, a physician in Chinese medicine.
She said that using the right techniques, cosmetic acupuncture can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, balance facial symmetry, eliminate puffiness and create a natural glow.
“The most important aspect of this treatment is that it boosts oxygenation to keep the energy meridians running through the face healthy and vibrant,” Dr. Christophe said.
She explained that in traditional Chinese medicine there are six main meridians that run through the face.
The Gallbladder meridian runs through the temples and around the eyes, while the Stomach meridian runs from under the eyes, down the cheeks and along the jawline.
Dr. Kristof said that stimulation points on the face affect the energy pathways that connect to the stomach system.
Everything is connected through the body’s energy grid, she said, and nothing in its path to the face or body should be frozen or blocked. “The sooner we realize that beauty comes from within, the more we will be open to holistic choices,” Dr. Kristof said.
“I try to educate younger patients who don’t really need invasive treatments to try facial rejuvenation as part of their routine to maintain healthy skin.”
Dr Cathy Wang, director of Tao Acupuncture Clinic in Shenton Park, said it appeared more Western Australians were avoiding Botox due to concerns about the risks.
She said facial acupuncture poses no risks, apart from the minimal possibility of mild bruising. “Facial acupuncture is popular in our clinic with the middle-aged demographic, around 35 to 70 years old, who want a natural, yet rejuvenated and well-groomed appearance,” she said.
“In Chinese medicine we have always believed that beauty comes from within, so we relax the body whilst treating it, helping to balance the body’s energy, making the face look brighter, fresher, creating a more even skin tone and reducing the appearance of fine lines.
“It also works well if you have hyperpigmentation.”
Dr. Kristof said those who opt for the treatment can expect to “feel rejuvenated, invigorated and refreshed” immediately after the first 90-minute customized session, but that for those looking for more dramatic results, he recommends six to nine treatments per week.
She said she starts with a comprehensive assessment to look at the effects of diet, hormones and stress on the body and skin, before releasing tension in the neck and shoulders.
We then begin with acupuncture on the face and scalp and finish with lymphatic drainage, Gua Sha massage and microcurrent toning stimulation.
Dr. Kristof said he also issues herbal prescriptions after treatment to support patients in achieving their desired results.
“Thankfully, acupuncture facelifts are becoming increasingly popular, with people moving away from Botox and fillers towards more natural, holistic alternatives such as acupuncture,” she said.
“We still have a long way to go. There needs to be more education and awareness, especially among the younger generations, about what the true foundations of beauty and self-esteem are.”
Traditional Chinese medicine doctor Dr Marina Kristof reveals three ways to lift your face without using Botox or fillers.
Facial Acupuncture
advantage: It harmonizes the entire body and calms the nervous system while stimulating collagen production through facial micro-trauma, improving blood circulation and lymphatic drainage for a natural lifting effect on the skin.
process: The insertion of fine needles into specific acupressure points on the face and body can increase energy, oxygenate tissues, balance energy and promote overall skin health. It is a painless, deeply relaxing treatment when performed by a specialist Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner.
short term: Increased blood flow provides instant relaxation with a subtle glow. Mild improvements to skin texture. A comprehensive plan for long-term skin health and vitality.
Long Term: After several months of regular treatments, you will see a gradual reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improved skin tone, elasticity and a firmer appearance.
Fee: $250-360
Facial Massage and Gua Sha
advantage: It stimulates lymphatic drainage, reduces swelling and increases blood flow to the skin, promoting a firmer, more toned appearance.
process: Using facial massage techniques and tools such as gua sha stones, the skin is gently rubbed to release tension and increase circulation.
short term: You’ll notice immediate reduction in puffiness and improved skin radiance, with facial contours becoming more visibly defined after each session.
Long Term: With continued use, over time, skin will tighten and facial muscle tension will be relieved, resulting in a firmer, more youthful appearance.The great thing about this method is that these techniques can be mastered and patients can perform Gua Sha regularly in the comfort of their own home to enhance the effects of their acupuncture facelift.
Fee: Facial acupuncture includes
Microcurrent Therapy
advantage: It stimulates facial muscles, improves skin tone and firmness, and promotes collagen and elastin production.
process: A handheld device is used to deliver low levels of electrical current to the face, stimulating the facial muscles to lift and contour the face.
short term: After each treatment, you will instantly notice a subtle tightening, lifting and firming of the skin’s contours.
Long Term: With regular use over a period of several weeks to months, skin firmness and elasticity will be noticeably improved, fine lines and wrinkles will be less noticeable, and facial structure will become more defined.
