As interest in clean beauty skin care and more holistic treatments continues to grow, we recently asked the question, “Acupuncture or Botox?”
As we age, wrinkles appear. That’s natural. And while some of us in our 40s embrace aging like fine wine, others want to maintain the smooth skin they didn’t have to strive for in their 20s.
If you want to eliminate wrinkles but need an alternative to cosmetic procedures like Botox or other methods, consider acupuncture-based facial rejuvenation.
I had the opportunity to try a session with owner and founder Laura Pirissis at Meridian Wellness. She is a licensed acupuncturist and works with clients to combat the effects of aging through holistic bodywork and localized acupuncture.
what to expect
Trichoeclampsia started with questions about my medical history, current medications, and menstrual cycles. She took my pulse and observed the color and shape of my tongue. This helps in understanding the client’s internal health condition according to Chinese medicine.
Piritsis then performed traditional needlework on various parts of my body, including my feet, legs, and wrists.
On my face, the needles were inserted in the center of my forehead, between my eyebrows, at my temples, all over my cheeks (targeting hyperpigmentation in that area), and in a few spots along and behind my ears. Pilitsis said that the needlework behind the ears is intended to lift the face.
Then, in a warm, dimmed acupuncture room, I lay on my back with the needle in place and relaxed (or tried to relax) for about 15 minutes. I closed my eyes and tried not to focus too much on the fact that tiny needles were being inserted into my skin.
Pilitsis removed the needle and began massaging my face with a small amount of vitamin C serum and coconut oil. She performed upward cupping and gua sha techniques on my neck and face, then lubed up her neck to get the lymph flowing.
Immediately after the session and for several hours afterwards, my face retained its glow but no redness or irritation. My face has also become noticeably less puffy and more contoured.
For long-term results, Pilitsis recommends having 10 to 14 consecutive sessions at least once a week to see real results. At least 6 consecutive sessions are required to see an increase in collagen production.
Folliculitis emphasizes that while facial rejuvenation helps smooth wrinkles and fine lines, skin problems such as dark circles, puffy eyes, hyperpigmentation and acne can be addressed with this method. .
Home maintenance
Regular use of techniques such as facial acupuncture can counteract the stresses of daily life.
We highly recommend an at-home facial massage for clients in between facial rejuvenation treatments or for those who want to add anti-aging to their skin care routine.
Derma rollers, jade rollers, and gua sha tools are readily available to consumers. These allow you to massage the skin upwards from your collarbone to your forehead, and then gently roll towards your neck. Bonus points if you apply your favorite serum or oil to your face before your massage.
