Constitutional facial acupuncture can be a great alternative to Botox or other cosmetic procedures to your face. This type of acupuncture is also known as “constitutional facial rejuvenation,” and it is a method of moderating the effects of aging through Chinese medicine. These techniques include acupuncture, cupping, topical herbal applications, and massage. Constitutional facial acupuncture is used to soften lines, even the tones of your skin and overall revitalize your face for a more youthful appearance.
Acupuncture has been around for centuries, treating things like headaches, chronic pain and even nausea. During acupuncture treatments, tiny needles are gently placed along specific “acupressure points” where they interact with underlying tissues, ligaments, muscles, and nerves. This stimulates the body’s own healing response; relieving pain, releasing tension, and helping to neutralize emotional imbalances. Constitutional facial acupuncture is an extension of traditional acupuncture treatments and is said to be the safer alternative to cosmetic surgery or Botox. Unlike injection procedures, constitutional facial acupuncture addresses not only signs of aging, but also the skin’s overall health. It is impossible to treat only the face without benefiting the rest of the body and vice versa.
Why is it called ‘constitutional’ facial acupuncture? The face reflects the overall health of your body, so your constitution is treated as well as your face during each facial acupuncture session. Since these channels run through the entire body, certain points will be triggered on your arms and legs that will contribute to the goal. Constitutional facial acupuncture uses the power of positive microtraumas to increase blood flow and collagen production to the face. This can be compared to what happens to your muscles weightlifting. The benefits of the body’s response to these microtears include things such as:
- Brightened complexion
- Reduced puffiness and facial swelling
- Reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Improved skin texture
- And much more!
Constitutional facial acupuncture treatment sessions last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. On the day you plan to have a treatment it is recommended to wear minimal to no makeup and avoid heavy creams and lotions. Your acupuncturist will go over a health history with you and ask what goals you expect from these treatments. On the day of, your acupuncturist will gently tap tiny acupuncture needles into place along your face, neck, and hairline as needed that will remain in place for 20-25 minutes. At the end of treatment, the needles will be removed, and you will be asked to drink lots of water the rest of the day to flush the toxins from your body. It is common for a constitutional facial acupuncture regimen to consist of 12-20 weekly sessions lasting 90 minutes each.
Dr. Harris received her training for Constitutional Facial Acupuncture from internationally recognized Acupuncturist Mary Elizabeth Wakefield, a pioneer and premier advocate of “Ageless Aging.” If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Harris call Galen Acupuncture and Osteopathic Medicine at (785) 393-1108 and visit her website to learn more!
Posted in Constitutional Facial Acupuncture