COSMETIC ACUPUNCTURE, FACIAL CUPPING & FACIAL GUA SHA
What is Cosmetic Acupuncture?
Cosmetic Acupuncture is an acupuncture facial treatment that involves the insertion of acupuncture needles into fine lines and wrinkles on the face and neck in order to reduce the visible signs of aging. In Chinese medicine, the meridians or pathways of Qi (energy) flow throughout the entire body from the soles of the feet up to the face and head; consequently, a facial acupuncture treatment addresses the entire body constitutionally, and is not merely “cosmetic.” An acupuncture facial involves the patient in an organic, gradual process, which is customized for each individual. It is no way analogous to, or a substitute for, a surgical “face lift”. A treatment session may confine itself solely to facial acupuncture, or it may be used in conjunction with other procedures.
What is Facial Cupping?
Facial Cupping is an alternative therapy that uses suction cups to stimulate your skin and muscles. The suction promotes increased blood circulation, which may help relieve muscle tension, promote cell repair, and aid in other regeneration. Facial cups are typically smaller and softer. They’re used to gently pull the skin away from deeper layers of fascia. This increases blood flow to the area and rejuvenates the skin without leaving cup marks behind. Over time this practice improves the complexion and diminishes fine lines and wrinkles.
The suction effect pulls blood into the area of skin underneath the cup. This saturates the surrounding tissue with fresh blood and promotes new blood vessel formation. Cupping also promotes sterile inflammation. The vacuum-like suction separates different layers of tissues, resulting in microtrauma and tearing. This triggers an inflammatory response, flooding the area with white blood cells, platelets, and other healing aids.
Facial Cupping has been shown to
- Increase oxygen
- Rich blood circulation
- Strengthen skin and connective tissues
- Stimulate cells responsible for collagen production
- Relax muscle tension
- Brighten skin
- Minimize the appearance of scars, fine lines, and wrinkles
- Tone chin, jawline, neck, and décolletage
- Decrease puffiness
- Regulate oil production improve nutrient delivery and product absorption
What is Facial Gua Sha?
stainless steel, stone, animal horn, jade, or rose quartz and is stroked over the skin to relax stiff muscles and promote tissue drainage.
The treatment is traditionally used in East Asian and Chinese medicine. Some might be familiar with Gua Sha massage therapy, which treats muscle pain and tight muscles by applying pressure with the Gua Sha tool.
Facial Gua Sha treatment uses similar techniques tailored to the face. It’s been used for thousands of years, and after treatment, the skin can look smoother and lifted, and with frequent repetition, this can become part of your comprehensive skin routine.
If you feel you have your questions answered and want to book, please give us a call or e-mail us to schedule an appointment!