Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture
Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture is a holistic non-surgical therapy that reduces the signs of aging by treating both the face directly and the underlying causes of aging. More than just a cosmetic procedure, it is a revitalization method that makes the whole person look and feel younger. According to Chinese medical theory, inner health is seen in one's outer appearance because health and beauty are inseparable. Correcting internal imbalances is the best way to treat outer signs of aging. Acupuncture, massage, herbs, and dietary therapy are all a part of Facial Rejuvenation treatment. Acupuncture is a therapy that adjusts the circulation of qi flowing through channels in the body. Thin, sterile needles are placed in specific points on the face, ears, and limbs to manipulate energy, blood and lymph flow. High quality, organic facial oil blends are used during the massage for their therapeutic effect on signs of aging.

Traditional Chinese medicine describes the functions of the organs differently from Western medicine. Rather than seeing them as separate body parts with purely physiological functions, Chinese medicine sees them as interconnected energy systems that affect our physical and emotional health and appearance. The Heart's function is to move blood through the body, promote deep sleep, and maintain the brightness of the eyes. A weak Heart can cause facial swelling and dulling of the eyes. If sleep is affected, dark eye circles and puffiness can result. The Lungs are responsible for the movement of energy and fluids in the body. If they are impaired, the skin can lack moisture resulting in wrinkles and dry skin. An imbalance in the Liver can cause stagnation of energy and blood flow in the face leading to dark spots and wrinkles. If the Spleen and Stomach function of regulating the transportation of food and body fluids is impaired, the face will be puffy or sagging. The Kidneys regulate body fluids and store a substance called essence, our basic life energy that maintains health and youth. Insufficient Kidney function can cause eye puffiness, dark circles under the eyes, wrinkles and thinning hair.

Based on symptoms and observations, a Chinese medicine practitioner can determine the underlying imbalances in organs and energy pathways that cause aging. Each individual has a unique constitution and imbalance; therefore, each person receives different acupuncture points and herbal therapy. For example, a person with a pale, sagging face would be treated different from someone with red, puffy face.

What is the history of Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture?
As early as 1100 BC, Chinese medicine was used to treat skin conditions as well as to prevent illness and aging. One famous text from 770 B.C. describes herbal therapies specific for anti-aging. In 200 AD, various texts discuss acupuncture techniques for facial rejuvenation. As early as 960 AD during the Sung Dynasty, the Empress and the Emperor's concubines used facial rejuvenation techniques to maintain a youthful appearance.

What are the effects of Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture?

• Improvement in muscle tone and skin contraction on the face and neck
• Increase of collagen production to diminish wrinkles
• Decrease of bags and dark circles under the eyes
• Reduction of sagging of the face and neck
• Reduction of puffiness
• Regulation of hormones to treat acne
• Improvement in facial coloring by increasing blood and lymph movement
• Diminishing of dark age spots
• Reduction of stress evident in the face
• Brightening of the eyes
• Relaxation of muscle tightness in the face and neck
• Improvement of other health conditions (insomnia, digestive complaints, low back pain, etc.)
• Detoxification of the face and body through increased lymphatic drainage
• Improvement in the underlying causes of aging and illness!
  

When will I see results?
Most people see noticeable and lasting results after the seventh treatment. Each person responds differently depending on his/her age, overall health, and lifestyle. Doing facial self-massage, taking herbal or nutritional supplements, applying facial essential oil blends, and eating a healthy diet will enhance the effect of your treatments. In 1999, a research study published in the International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture was done using facial acupuncture on 300 people. It revealed that after a series of 12 treatments, 90% of its participants saw results that included better complexion, decreased wrinkles, and general rejuvenation not confined to the face.

How many treatments do I need?
You will receive the most effect from Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture if you commit to a series of 12 treatments. Two times a week for 3 weeks and then once a week for 6 weeks is optimal. Otherwise, once a week for 12 weeks is recommended. When you are scheduling, make sure that you can receive treatment for 9-12 weeks in a row. Skipping more than one week is not recommended and will require that you begin the entire series again upon your return. After your series is completed, maintenance treatments are recommended once a month or 4 times a year.

How long do the results last?
After completing the series, results generally last 5 years.

What is the difference between Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture and other non-surgical procedures like botox?
Botox, peels, collagen injections, laser and microderm abrasion focus on symptoms rather than internal imbalances that cause aging. Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture treats the whole person by balancing one's internal organ and energy pathways to create a more youthful appearance and healthy body. In addition, there are no side effects unlike many Western therapies.

What if I have had cosmetic procedures or surgery (botox, surgical face lift, injections, peels?
It is best to wait 3-4 weeks to receive Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture.

What are the contraindications for Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture?

• Heart disorders
• high blood pressure
  
• pituitary disorders
  
• diabetes
  
• migraines
  
• pregnancy
  
• acute herpes outbreak
  
• acute allergic attack
  
• people taking blood thinning medication

What if I bruise easily?
Please notify the office before scheduling.

Where can I learn more?
Virginia Doran, MA, L.Ac., LMT is the founder of the Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture used at this clinic. Her website is www.luminousbeauty.com.

How much does Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture cost?
The initial treatment is 2 hours and the follow ups are 1 hour and 30 minutes. The initial visit is $195 and the follow-ups are $150 per treatment. Herbs, nutritional supplements and facial oils are not included.