Today, the holistic approach to beauty is no longer just a trend but has become a lifestyle. From choosing clean and natural beauty products to practicing natural practices to keeping skin young and healthy, just like using gua sha and cosmetic acupuncture.
But what is cosmetic acupuncture? Who can do this procedure? And is it effective? To answer these questions and shed light on this natural facial treatment, Manila Bulletin Lifestyle talked to Dr. Candy Drilon-Dalman, MD-MBA, functional and integrative medicine and medical director and co-founder of Centro Holistico, an integrative health and wellness center.
What is cosmetic acupuncture?
Cosmetic acupuncture, also known as facial acupuncture or facial rejuvenation acupuncture, is a holistic approach to improving the appearance of the skin and reducing signs of aging. It involves the insertion of very fine needles into specific points on the face and body (yes we also put points in the body). The goal is to stimulate the skin and underlying muscles, enhance blood circulation, promote collagen production, and improve overall skin tone and texture.
The idea is that by stimulating acupuncture points on the face and body, you encourage the body’s natural healing processes. This can lead to increased blood flow and oxygen to the facial tissues, which may help to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and puffiness. The treatment can also help balance and strengthen the muscles beneath the skin, contributing to a more youthful appearance.
Cosmetic acupuncture as a specific practice began to gain popularity in the last 10 years. It started trending in the Western part of the world as part of a broader trend towards natural and non-surgical cosmetic treatments. Practitioners have been integrating traditional acupuncture techniques with modern understandings of skin health and cosmetic enhancement.
Is cosmetic acupuncture safe for most people?
Acupuncture is generally safe for most of the population as long as they go to qualified and trained practitioners. For patients who have had some cosmetic procedures done recently, like Botox, fillers, etc., we usually advise them to rest their face for a month before doing facial acupuncture. There are no strict contraindications, except for those with known allergies to metal since we use metallic-made needles.
How does cosmetic acupuncture compare to other non-invasive cosmetic treatments like botox, fillers, or laser therapy?
Compared to botox, fillers, etc, results are not instant with cosmetic acupuncture. It will take several sessions before you see the effects, especially for those with more complex imbalances/conditions with poor lifestyles. However, once the desired effects are there, they last longer than those of botox or fillers that are just there for a few months. With proper maintenance sessions and lifestyle choices, the effects will really last long.
What is the typical number of sessions required to see results?
We usually advise a minimum of 10-12 sessions, once to twice a week for best results. Once results are achieved, maintenance is advised once a month. Once the desired effects are there, they last longer (natural aging) as compared to botox or fillers that are just there for a few months. With proper maintenance sessions and lifestyle choices, the effects will really last long.
How does cosmetic acupuncture fit into a holistic approach to beauty and wellness?
Cosmetic acupuncture not only targets the external signs of aging but also considers the individual's overall health and well-being. It is believed to improve the skin by addressing internal imbalances, which can contribute to a more youthful appearance.
Centro Holistico is one of the clinics and centers in the Philippines that offers cosmetic acupuncture. Just like Dr. Candy said, it is best to consult your physician before the procedure and only have it done by qualified and trained practitioners.