Greenwich Natural Health Centre: Acupuncture Facial Revitalisation

Said to be the secret beauty weapon of a number of A-list stars including Madonna, Gwyneth Paltrow and Demi Moore, facial revitalisation acupuncture is a cheaper and safer alternative to Botox and cosmetic surgery. Practitioners claim that the procedure can, without risk, eliminate under eye bags, crow's feet, jowls and many other wrinkles caused by years of boardroom stress.

Whilst there can often be an almost immediate aesthetic difference, the therapy is believed to affect the energy balance of the whole body so it's a therapy for both inside and out.

How does it work?

On the surface, it improves facial tone by stimulating the muscles of the face and reestablishing firmness.

This may improve the look of a sagging jaw line, double chin, naso-labial fold, drooping eyelids and give the appearance of redefined cheekbones.

Acupuncture also stimulates circulation in the face, improving facial color, under eye bags or circles, and reducing the appearance of flushed face. By stimulating collagen production, it is believed individual lines and wrinkles can be diminished.

Acupuncture affects the endocrine system and balances hormones. Balancing hormones can improve problems pertaining to the skin such as acne, oily skin, and dry skin.

What is involved?

In consultation with the acupuncturist, the client decides which areas of the face they particularly wish to work on. This may be facial lines or blemishes etc. After which, acupuncture needles are then inserted and left in for up to 20 minutes with the whole procedure lasting between 30-45 minutes. It is then recommended that up to 15 weekly sessions are carried out to allow the process to be as fully effective as possible

Is there any evidence that it works?

In 1996 the International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture reported that among 300 cases using Facial Acupuncture, 90% had marked effects with one course of therapy. The effects included: improvement of elasticity of facial muscles, leveling of wrinkles, a rosier complexion and overall revitalisation not just confined to the face.

Facial Revitalisation is an excellent and more cost effective choice to surgery. It is safe, virtually painless and has few side effects or risks of disfigurement under the supervision of a fully qualified practitioner. It also carries no risk of drooping eyes and mouth often associated with facial paralysis through the use of other therapies such as chemical injection.