Cosmetic Acupuncture
By Liam St Pierre (MCSP, MBMAS) at Yoga Place
Cosmetic or Facial Revitilisation Acupuncture is a painless, non-surgical method of reducing the signs of the aging process. This treatment is based on the ancient Chinese concept that the body's motivating energy, the qi, diminishes with age, causing a reduction in nourishment and support to the skin. It hydrates the skin, improving the appearance of facial lines and preventing new ones from forming. It is also used to treat baggy eyelids, dark circles around the eyes, discoloured skin, scars and other blemishes. During treatment the tiny, hair-fine acupuncture needles, used to stimulate the flow of qi, are inserted into specific points on the face, targeting the treatment areas.
Acupuncture can't replace invasive surgery, but is a far safer and less expensive procedure, not painful and with no risks or side effects.
Does it really make a difference?
Madonna, Gwyneth Paltrow and Cher have all having regular "acupuncture facelifts" to ward off their wrinkles. A 1996 report in the International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture reported that among 300 cases treated with Facial Acupuncture, 90% had marked effects with one course of treatment. The effects included: the skin becoming delicate and fair, improvement of the elasticity of facial muscles and leveling of wrinkles, a brighter complexion, and overall rejuvenation–not confined to the face.
What is the course of treatment?
Generally, it consists of 12 treatments. Most patients notice a difference after one or two treatments, however the effects become most noticeable and lasting on or about the sixth session. Each person responds in a different way, depending on his or her condition and lifestyle prior to treatment.
What to expect at your first consultation
At the first session a full assessment of the patient’s medical history is taken along with a discussion about which areas of the face you would like to improve. The treatment itself involves hair-thin needles in specific points in the face. Body points may also be used to improve a person’s overall energy.
The needles will be in for up to 30 minutes. The process is virtually painless and very relaxing. After the needles have been removed a variety of other traditional techniques may be used, such as facial massage. Facial exercises may also be prescribed to help maintain the benefits of the treatment.
What’s it cost?
The initial consultation and treatment is £120
Follow up treatments are £80
A block of 6 sessions is £500
About Liam St Pierre (MCSP, MBMAS)
Liam is an Acupuncturist and a Chartered Physiotherapist. He uses a combination of these skills to provide a comprehensive holistic treatment of acupuncture, massage and facial exercises to help revitalize a persons face and sense of wellbeing. Liam is a member of the British Medical Acupuncture Society and has been practicing for a number of years.
