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Cosmetic Acupuncture
By Siamak Shirazi | March 26, 2008
What is Cosmetic Acupuncture?
Cosmetic Acupuncture is an effective, non-surgical treatment to reduce the signs of aging. It is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which involves the insertion of very thin disposable needles designed to be used only for face, into the groups of designated acupuncture points on the face & body where needed.
This superficial insertion on the face will increase the local circulation of both blood and energy (called Qi - pronounced; CHEE) to the face and stimulate collagen production, which will fill out the lines and tightens the skin. It also tones all the targeted facial muscles which will also gives firmness to the skin for a healthy, glowing complexion.
Cosmetic Acupuncture has attracted great attention in the last few years, especially in the big cities like New York City and Los Angeles. It used to be a treatment only for the rich and famous in Hollywood, but now everyone wants the royal treatment. A 1996 report in the international journal of Clinical Acupuncture reported that among 300 cases treated with Cosmetic Acupuncture, 90% had marked effects with a course of treatments. The effects: the skin became delicate, improvement in the elasticity of facial muscles, better complexion, and overall facial rejuvenation.
How does it work?
Siamak has been studying and researching to specialize in Cosmetic Acupuncture for over 10 years. He is licensed by the Oregon Board of Medical Practitioners since 1995 and also holds two certifications in the field of Cosmetic Acupuncture. He is able to utilize the meridians that either end or begin at the face to stimulate and balance the energy and at the same time, treat the underlying factors that contribute to the aging process. This involves the insertion of hair-thin disposable needles into specific areas on the face, ears, and hands. The needles are inserted into the energy pathways or meridians to improve the flow of Qi. As the movement of energy improves, a greater amount of energy and blood is circulated to the face, nourishing, hydrating, toning and diminishing the appearance of wrinkles.
At the same time he is attending to the outside (what you see), he can use some additional acupuncture points (usually on the arms and around ankles) to work on the inside. In this way he is working holistically, both on the physical appearance and on the underlying factors which influence that.
What are the benefits of Cosmetic Acupuncture?
Cosmetic Acupuncture can take years off your face. It helps to eliminate fine lines and makes the deeper lines look softer. It can also help to minimize dark circles, puffy eyes, double chin, sagging skin, and dropping eyelids. Other benefits include:
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Increases circulation, therefore oxygenates the skin
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Tightens the pores, and brightens the eyes
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Nourishes the skin, giving you a healthy complexion with a natural glow and radiant, younger looking skin
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Moisturizes the skin from inside, and gives rosy cheeks to people with dull, tired looking skin
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Helps minimize or eliminate fine lines
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Helps lift sagging skin, puffy or droopy eyelids
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Increases collagen production
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Brightens the eyes
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Improves muscle tone and dermal contraction
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Improves hormonal balance to reduce acne
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Improves facial color and tone
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Softens scars
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Increases blood, energy and lymph circulation
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Leaves you feeling refreshed, relaxed and rejuvenated.
Q: Can I do Cosmetic Acupuncture if I already had botox?
A: Yes, Cosmetic Acupuncture will maintain the effectiveness of botox, so it will save you a couple injections per year.
Why choose Cosmetic Acupuncture over a Face Lift?
While not a replacement for surgery, acupuncture is an excellent alternative. It is far less expensive than cosmetic surgery and is much safer, virtually painless and has no side effects or risk of disfigurement. This is unlike surgery, which may have an extended recovery period with swelling and discoloration. There is no trauma from Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture and you can stop with no ill effects. Treatment protocols can be modified to suit individual patients schedule and time frame to prepare for special events.
What is the course of treatment?
Treatments will be done 2 to 3 times a week to achieve best results, however can be modified to the individuals schedule. Each patient will respond differently to the treatment depending on their age and lifestyle. Visible results will be noticeable between 5 -7 sessions. Maintenance maybe needed depending on the individual patient, anywhere from once every month to 4 times a year follow-up sessions.
Each cosmetic acupuncture treatment lasts about 45-60 minutes with about 10 minutes of insertion time. Patients will be relaxing on a state of the art massage table while listening to soothing music. Cosmetic Acupuncture is traditionally done in 10 consecutive sessions within 4 to 6 weeks. You can also receive single treatments for follow-up or for a special event.
Does it really make a difference?
Cosmetic Acupuncture has been performed for thousands of years in China. As early as the Sung Dynasty (960AD-1270AD) Cosmetic Acupuncture was performed on the Empress and Emperor’s concubines. For centuries, the Chinese have known that beauty radiates from the inside out. The results are obviously not as dramatic as a surgical procedure but for the amount of time and money you invest, and its low risk, it’s a great alternative. It will make you look at your best and years younger. The other benefit is if you continue with follow-up treatments (the frequency of follow-up treatments varies from person to person) you can hold on to the results and slow down the aging process dramatically.
About the author: Siamak F. Shirazi, L.Ac, Ph. D is a licensed acupuncturist in private practice in Portland, Oregon since 1995. Visit his site at www.2bwell.net .
For information on Cosmetic Acupuncture treatments in Minneapolis, MN go to http://www.orientalmedcare.com/facial_rejuvenation_acupuncture_facelift.html .
This document was created, gathered, reviewed and/or modified by a group of practitioners at 2bwell, Inc. Although it might be referenced material, it is authentic in its present form and not permitted to be used with out a written consent of 2bwell, Inc.
Topics: Acupuncture |