Why Facial Acupuncture is Gaining Popularity in the Era of Clean Beauty
Link copied! Achieving healthy, radiant skin doesn’t have to mean relying on chemical peels, injectables, or synthetic skincare products. As more people shift towards clean beauty, the demand for natural skincare solutions is higher than ever. This is where facial acupuncture comes in—a traditional practice that gently stimulates collagen production, enhances circulation, and supports overall skin health. But what makes facial acupuncture different from other conventional beauty treatments? Here’s what you need to know. What is Clean Beauty? Clean beauty takes a natural and holistic approach to skincare and makeup. It involves choosing products made from safe, eco-friendly, and non-toxic ingredients—free from harsh chemicals, artificial additives, and synthetic fragrances. However, clean beauty is more than just the products you use—it’s also about the choices you make for your skin in the long run. Instead of relying on aggressive procedures and formulations, more people are now turning to treatments that work in harmony with their skin. This approach helps to support skin health gently and sustainably, maintaining the body’s natural balance while promoting lasting results. How Facial Acupuncture Supports Clean Beauty Goals If you’re looking for a skincare solution that aligns with the principles of non-toxic beauty, facial acupuncture offers an organic way to rejuvenate your skin. 1. Collagen Stimulation Unlike conventional beauty treatments that rely on chemicals or invasive methods, facial acupuncture is a skin rejuvenation technique that naturally stimulates the body’s own healing mechanisms. Fine needles are gently inserted into specific points on the face, stimulating the flow of Qi and enhancing microcirculation to promote cell turnover and natural repair. This process helps support the production of collagen and elastin, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Facial acupuncture can also help lift and tone facial muscles, contributing to firmer, more youthful-looking skin over time. 2. Treating Skin from the Inside Out Have you ever noticed that your skin looks dull or irritated when you’re stressed, sleep-deprived, or experiencing digestive issues? According to TCM physicians in Singapore, your skin is a reflection of your overall health. Facial acupuncture doesn’t just target the surface of your skin—it also helps restore internal balance, addressing underlying factors like poor circulation, stress, and hormonal imbalances. Additionally, it can help balance oil production, which can be particularly helpful for those struggling with acne or breakouts. 3. A Complementary Treatment to Facial Gua Sha Facial acupuncture is often paired with facial gua sha—a technique that involves scraping motions across the skin using a smooth-edged tool usually made of jade. This combination is commonly used to encourage circulation and ease facial tension, leading to a firmer and more radiant complexion. How to Incorporate Facial Acupuncture into Your Beauty Routine If you’re considering facial acupuncture as part of your beauty routine, here are some tips to help you get started. 1. Set Realistic Expectations Facial acupuncture isn’t a quick fix like Botox or fillers. It’s a gradual process that focuses on improving skin health over time. Most people notice subtle improvements after the first few sessions, with more visible results typically appearing after 7-8 treatments. Consistent follow-up visits are usually needed to maintain progress, so it’s important to approach the treatment with patience and the right mindset. 2. Listen to Your Skin Your skin is unique, and how it responds to facial acupuncture may vary. Pay attention to any changes, and don’t hesitate to discuss concerns with your practitioner. It’s normal to experience a slight flush or warmth after treatment due to increased circulation, but this typically fades quickly. Staying in tune with how your skin responds will help you get the most out of the experience. 3. Find a Qualified Practitioner To ensure you receive the best care, seek out a licensed TCM practitioner experienced in facial treatments through TCM techniques. An unqualified practitioner may neglect proper techniques or hygiene standards, increasing the risk of infection, prolonged inflammation, or poor treatment outcomes. To ensure safe and effective care, choose a trusted provider like Oriental Remedies Clinic, where our experienced TCM physicians prioritise proper technique, hygiene, and personalised treatment in a trusted and supportive environment. Is Facial Acupuncture Right for You? For those looking to commit to a clean beauty lifestyle, facial acupuncture could be the natural solution you’ve been searching for. By enhancing microcirculation and addressing internal imbalances, facial acupuncture promotes not just a healthy, radiant complexion but also overall well-being from within. Ready to explore this natural skincare approach? Contact Oriental Remedies Clinic to make your first appointment today. RELATED TOPICS YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE
Why Your Skin Barrier Matters And How TCM Can Help Protect It
Link copied! The skin barrier is the outermost layer of our skin and serves as the body’s first line of defence against external aggressors like pollutants, bacteria, and allergens. This protective barrier is made up of tightly packed skin cells and natural lipids that work together to shield the skin from harmful substances. A healthy skin barrier is essential for maintaining overall skin health. It acts as a protective shield, preventing harmful pollutants and bacteria from entering the skin while locking in moisture to keep it hydrated and supple. When the skin barrier becomes compromised due to factors like harsh weather, irritants, or over-cleansing, it can lead to dryness, irritation, and an increased susceptibility to infections. By preserving the integrity of your skin barrier, you enhance your skin’s resilience against environmental stressors, ensuring it stays healthy, protected, and radiant. A damaged skin barrier can present itself in various ways. Common signs include: Dryness and Flakiness: Rough, tight, or scaly skin often indicates moisture loss. Redness and Irritation: Increased sensitivity can cause redness or a burning sensation. Itching: Persistent itching is a clear sign of barrier damage. Breakouts: Acne and blemishes can appear when the skin is unable to block out bacteria and pollutants effectively. Sensitivity to Products: A weakened barrier may react to products that were previously well-tolerated. Dullness: Skin may appear lacklustre or less vibrant. Visible Pores: Larger pores may appear as the skin struggles to regulate oil and moisture. Recognising these signs is crucial, as a compromised skin barrier can lead to more serious skin conditions like eczema or acne. A consistent skincare routine that prioritises gentle cleansing and hydration can help restore the barrier and prevent further damage. Maintaining a healthy skin barrier offers several important benefits: Protection Against External Aggressors: A strong barrier shields the skin from pollutants, bacteria, and UV radiation, reducing the risk of skin infections. Moisture Retention: The barrier helps retain moisture, keeping the skin hydrated and preventing dryness. Regulation of Skin Functions: It supports the skin’s natural processes, such as healing and oil production, maintaining balance. Prevention of Inflammation: A well-functioning barrier reduces inflammation, helping to prevent conditions like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis. Enhanced Product Efficacy: When the barrier is intact, skincare products are more effectively absorbed and can deliver maximum results. Overall Skin Appearance: A healthy barrier contributes to smoother, more radiant skin by preventing dryness, dullness, and texture issues. Long-Term Skin Health: A well-maintained barrier can help prevent premature ageing and other long-term skin problems. Protecting and maintaining your skin barrier can promote long-term skin health and a more youthful, vibrant complexion. Supporting Your Skin Barrier with TCM TCM takes a holistic approach to skincare by focusing on the balance of internal systems and nourishing the body from the inside out. In TCM, the skin is viewed as a reflection of internal health, with conditions like acne, eczema, and dryness often indicating imbalances in organs such as the Lungs, Liver, Spleen, or Kidneys. Central to TCM is the concept of Qi, or vital energy, which flows throughout the body, supporting blood circulation and nourishing organs and tissues. The strength and health of the skin barrier are influenced by the smooth flow of Qi—when Qi is stagnant or deficient, it can impair circulation, weakening the skin’s ability to protect itself. This can result in a compromised skin barrier, making it more vulnerable to external stressors. TCM therapies like acupuncture and herbal remedies aim to restore the flow of Qi, enhance blood circulation, and strengthen the skin barrier, promoting healthier, more resilient skin. By addressing both internal imbalances and external protection, TCM nurtures the skin’s natural defense system, ensuring it remains strong and radiant. Restoring Your Skin Barrier Through Diet To support skin health, TCM emphasises nourishing the body through food, herbs and lifestyle practices. Some key herbs known for promoting skin health and barrier repair include: Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis): Known for its blood-nourishing properties, Dang Gui helps enhance moisture retention in the skin, reduce inflammation [1] and support skin repair. Huang Qi (Astragalus): A powerful herb that boosts immunity, reduces inflammation [2] and stimulates collagen production [3] to improve skin structure, elasticity, and hydration. Incorporating these herbs into your routine: Dang Gui Tea: Steep 1-2 grams of dried Dang Gui root in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Add honey or lemon to taste. Astragalus Tea: Simmer slices of Astragalus root in water for 20-30 minutes. Add honey or lemon for flavour. Topical Applications: Look for skincare products that contain Astragalus or Angelica Sinensis extracts, which can help strengthen the skin barrier. TCM also recommends specific dietary and lifestyle practices to support the skin: Dietary Recommendations Blood-Nourishing Foods: Include iron-rich foods like dark leafy greens, legumes, nuts, and lean meats to support blood health. Hydration: Drink warm water and herbal teas like chrysanthemum or goji berry tea to support hydration and circulation. Limit Processed Foods: Avoid sugary, refined, and fried foods that can contribute to inflammation and skin issues. Healthy Fats: Include omega-3-rich foods like salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts to maintain skin hydration and barrier function. Repairing Your Skin Barrier with Lifestyle Changes Lifestyle Recommendations Manage Stress: Meditation, yoga, and Qi Gong can reduce stress and improve skin health. Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep nightly to support skin regeneration. Stay Active: Regular exercise promotes circulation and detoxifies the body. Practise Gentle Skincare: Use mild, natural skincare products and keep your routine consistent. Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure: Protect your skin from UV rays to prevent premature ageing. Limit Alcohol and Tobacco: Reducing alcohol and avoiding smoking improves skin health and appearance. Repairing Your Skin Barrier with Lifestyle Changes Acupuncture plays an essential role in balancing Qi, promoting circulation and reducing inflammation. Certain acupuncture points are often used to improve skin health: LI4 (Hegu): Found on the hand, this point promotes circulation and alleviates skin issues. SP6 (Sanyinjiao): Located on the inner leg, it nourishes the blood and can help with hormonal imbalances affecting the skin. ST36 (Zusanli): Located
TCM Treatments for Brighter & Healthier Skin
Link copied! In the pursuit of glowing and radiant skin, we often turn to Western medicine for solutions. But did you know that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been quietly transforming complexions for centuries? Beyond just treating ailments, TCM offers a holistic approach to skincare, addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying imbalances that cause skin issues. In this blog, we will explore how TCM clinics in Singapore utilise traditional and tech-enhanced therapies to unlock the secrets to brighter and healthier skin. Facial Acupuncture: The Art of Rejuvenation A common misconception is that acupuncture can only be done on the body. However, facial acupuncture exists and is a TCM treatment that has gained popularity for its ability to enhance skin health and combat various skin issues. One of the key benefits of facial acupuncture is its ability to improve blood circulation. By stimulating specific acupuncture points on the face, blood flow increases and allows for better oxygenation and nourishment of skin cells. This process promotes cell regeneration and repair, resulting in a smoother and more youthful appearance. Additionally, facial acupuncture helps to strengthen facial muscles, addressing concerns like sagging, lack of elasticity, and fine lines. The gentle stimulation of these muscles can lift and tone the face, naturally restoring its youthful contours without the need for invasive procedures. Learn more: Is Facial Acupuncture the new Botox? Electro-Lymphatic Therapy (ELT): Unravelling Beauty From Within ELT is another impressive tech-enhanced treatment that focuses on the lymphatic system — a crucial component of our body’s waste removal process. This therapy stimulates lymphatic flow and drainage which effectively alleviates inflammation to improve skin issues like acne and eczema flare-ups. Better lymphatic circulation also reduces water retention which has depuffing effects. Toxin build-up in the lymphatic system can also cause poor blood circulation to the face and result in skin issues like pigmentation, dullness and sagging. When toxins are properly cleared from the face and neck area through ELT, it allows better blood circulation and easier absorption of skincare applied to the area to address skin concerns more effectively. Learn more: So you’ve booked your first Electro-Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (ELT) appointment. What next? The Healing Power of TCM Herbs In TCM, herbs are regarded as powerful allies in the journey towards healthier skin. Qi and Blood-nourishing herbs like Angelica Root are paired with herbs that promote blood circulation, such as Szechuan Lovage Root and Suberect Spatholobus Stem. This potent combination works to enhance complexion and radiance, addressing issues like dullness and uneven skin tone. Moreover, TCM employs heat and dampness-clearing herbs to combat acne — an issue commonly associated with excess heat in the Stomach meridian and dampness resulting from weakened Spleen function. Herbs that tonify and invigorate Qi can help to strengthen the skin barrier, alleviating inflammation and preventing the formation of acne. While TCM offers a treasure trove of herbal remedies, exercising caution and wisdom when incorporating them into your health regimen is crucial. If you are considering TCM treatments involving herbs, it is essential to seek guidance from registered physicians at reputable TCM clinics in Singapore. TCM’s Holistic Approach to Beauty While Western medicine has its merits, TCM offers a time-honoured path to healthier and brighter skin the natural way. Here at Oriental Remedies Group, a TCM clinic in Singapore, our physicians are committed to embracing the wisdom of TCM and technology to help patients achieve their skin goals. Get in touch with us to find out more! Note: All words in Italics refer to the TCM organ-system and not the anatomical organ referenced in Western medicine. The content on this page is for information and educational purposes only. Such medical information may relate to disease, injury, drugs, and other treatments, medical devices, and/or health products. Medical information does not amount to advice, and if advice is needed an appropriate professional help should be sought. The disclaimer asserts that no warranties or representations are given in respect of the medical information and that the website operator should not be held liable if a user suffers any injury or loss after relying upon the medical information All wellness assessments and technology-enhanced therapies using wellness device(s) are intended for use only for general well-being purposes or to encourage or maintain a healthy lifestyle, and it is not intended to be used for any medical purposes (such as detection, diagnosis, monitoring, management or treatment of any medical condition or disease). Any health-related information provided by these devices should not be treated as a medical advice. Please consult a physician for any medical advice required. RELATED TOPICS YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE
Can TCM help with ageing skin?
Link copied! Ageing is a gradual and continuous natural process that begins as early as early adulthood. As we age, our organ functions start to gradually decline, and this includes our skin, which happens to be the body’s largest organ. Skin changes stand out as some of the most noticeable indicators of ageing. Typical signs of skin ageing encompass wrinkles or fine lines, sagging, the emergence of eye bags or dark under-eye circles, a lacklustre and uneven complexion, among others. In the ageing process, our outer skin layer becomes thinner, which can contribute to the development of eye bags. Furthermore, we experience a loss of fat and collagen in our skin, resulting in sagging and a paler appearance. Prolonged sun exposure over the years can increase the likelihood of pigmented spots like age spots or “liver spots” appearing on sun-exposed areas such as the forehead and cheekbones. Beyond natural ageing and sun exposure, lifestyle factors like diet, sleep, and stress can also lead to premature skin ageing. In TCM, premature skin ageing is affected by 2 main factors: Premature ageing of organs As we age, our organ function naturally declines, which also shows on our skin. Here are a few examples of how organ health can be linked to facial complexion. Dry skin is often associated with Lung Yin deficiency. This condition may also lead to other dry symptoms like dry eyes, a dry nose, and a dry throat. Dark under-eye bags or circles can be caused by Kidney Deficiency. Other accompanying symptoms may include frequent night urination and unexplained lower back pain, which tends to worsen with physical exhaustion. A dull or yellowish complexion may be linked to Spleen Qi deficiency. This condition is often accompanied by digestive symptoms such as bloating after eating, gassiness, soft or irregular stools, and fatigue. Sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles are typically caused by a combination of Lung Yin and Spleen Qi deficiency. These symptoms are often accompanied by digestive and dryness-related symptoms. External sensitivity to pollutants/environment As we age, our skin undergoes various changes, including thinning, dryness, reduced elasticity, and increased sensitivity to external stimuli. This sensitivity to external factors is often associated with Lung Qi deficiency, which is a natural part of the ageing process. Lung Qi deficiency may also be a natural body constitution (happens from birth), commonly seen in individuals with eczema, sinus issues, and childhood asthma. In TCM theory, our Lungs work closely with the skin to function as the “barrier” that protects us from external pathogens. As such, Lung Qi deficiency will result in the skin barrier weakening and becoming sensitive to external factors like heat, dust, pollen and more. Other symptoms of Lung Qi deficiency include immune-related symptoms such as being prone to falling ill or having long colds. TCM believes the way to prevent premature skin ageing and achieve a healthy, glowing complexion starts from within. Nourishing Qi and Blood ensures sufficient nourishment for our organs to function healthily, while maintaining a healthy Yin and Yang balance can help to prevent our body’s temperature and energies from fluctuating to maintain a stress-free environment for our skin to flourish. Promoting youthful skin with TCM 1. Wrinkles and Fine lines Wrinkles and fine lines can be caused by sun damage, skin thinning, and collagen loss. Collagen gives our skin structure and enables our skin to stretch and move easily. Collagen loss causes elastosis – the reduction of our skin’s strength and elasticity. Elastosis is more noticeable in sun-exposed areas and causes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. In TCM, wrinkles and fine lines are related to Lung Yin deficiency and Spleen Qi deficiency. TCM treatments for wrinkles and fine lines Replenishing collagen through collagen supplements or facial treatments are popular and effective ways to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. However, ensuring that our Lung Yin and Spleen Qi are taken care of is also crucial. In the clinic, we usually achieve this via herbal medication. Herbs such as Sha Shen, Mai Dong, Pi Pa Ye are commonly used to nourish Lung Yin and can help to alleviate dryness-related symptoms like dry mouth, nose, eyes, and throat. For patients who suffer from Spleen Qi deficiency, herbs like Huang Qi, Bai Zhu, and Dang Shen can help to improve complexion while also giving you a digestion and energy boost. Apart from herbs, acupuncture is also becoming an increasingly popular way of treating wrinkles and fine lines naturally. Insertion of fine needles along acupoints in the face stimulates local blood circulation and collagen production, which boosts elasticity and reduces appearance of wrinkles. Despite the use of needles, facial acupuncture is not as painful as many might think as the needles used are extremely small and fine. Tech-enhanced Therapies for wrinkles and fine lines i. Electro-Lymphatic Therapy (ELT) For individuals who are scared of needles, the Electro-Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (ELT) is a painless and non-invasive option to consider. ELT promotes healthy lymphatic drainage in the face and the body, which boosts complexion by ensuring clearance of toxins from the face and neck area. Toxin build-up in the lymphatic system can also cause poor blood circulation to the face and result in many skin issues over time. ELT is conducted using an FDA-approved machine and feels like a gentle, relaxing massage. The recommended frequency for ELT is once a week and lasts 60-80 minutes each time. People with tense neck and shoulders may experience immediate relief and lightness after one session and an improvement in skin complexion over a few sessions. ii. Cell Pro Therapy (CPT) The Cell Pro Therapy (CPT) is another painless and non-invasive alternative and is usually paired with an ELT session. Negative ions are also known as antioxidants and help to prevent premature cell ageing by scavenging free radicals and protect our cells from oxidative stress. Through skin surface area contact, the body absorbs a large amount of negative ions over a treatment duration of 20 minutes. After detox via the ELT, Negative ions help
Understanding and treating acne, maskne, back acne the TCM way
Link copied! Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that happens when the hair follicles under the skin become clogged. It is the most common skin condition, affecting roughly 40 to 50 million individuals annually. [1] Acne is usually caused by excess build up of oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria in the pore. Common areas of acne occurrence include: 1. Facial acne The face is the most common area for acne. Adult acne tends to occur on the lower half of the face (U-zone) around the cheeks, jawlines and chin area, while adolescent acne tends to appear on the forehead and nose area, also known as the T-zone. [2] 2. Body acne Apart from the face, acne can also appear on other areas of the body, including the back, the buttocks and even the limbs. Back acne, also known as Bacne, is one of the most common forms of acne and can cause significant discomfort. Body acne arises from the same reasons as facial acne, but can also happen due to wearing tight clothing and excessive sweating. 3. Mask-ne A term newly-coined since the pandemic, Mask-ne has affected many of us as we grow accustomed to wearing masks indoors and outdoors. Having to wear a mask over long periods of time can irritate our skin and clog our pores, leading to skin issues such as redness, bumpiness and itchiness. Acne in TCM terms In TCM, acne is most closely associated with Heat in the Lungs and Stomach. This is often caused by excessive consumption of spicy, oily and flavorful foods which causes an accumulation of Damp Heat in the body. In TCM, acne in different parts of the face and body could be an indication of poor health of their corresponding organs. Facial Acne Bacne and Chestne Acne that happens on the back or chest, accompanied by oily skin is believed in TCM to be caused by Heat Dampness in the Spleen. Acne is a condition that affects all ages, but individuals that experience fluctuating hormonal levels are more prone to suffering from it. As such, teens and working adults with a stressful lifestyle are more likely to suffer from acne. However, there are other factors that can also lead to facial and body acne. TCM and Non-TCM Acne myths 1. Chocolate and other “heaty” foods cause acne – Fact In TCM, “heaty” foods like chocolate, snacks, and fried foods are believed to cause acne. This is true as overconsumption of these foods can lead to Lung and Stomach Fire, which are the two main causes of acne in TCM. This corresponds to modern knowledge as these foods belong to a group of high Glycemic Index (GI) foods, which are commonly associated with acne. Consuming high GI foods can lead to a rise in blood sugar, which triggers a series of reactions that lead to skin inflammation and overproduction of skin oil. [5] 2. Staying up late causes acne – Fact You may realize that you break out more easily or have dull-looking skin after staying up late. That is because research has shown that sleep disturbance does impact skin disease. [6] Having an irregular sleep schedule causes fluctuation in brain chemical and hormonal levels, resulting in excessive oil production and clogged pores. In TCM theory, 1am to 3am is the time period where our liver detoxes, a process that can only take place when you are asleep. As such, staying up late beyond that time may hinder the liver’s detox process and cause an accumulation of “toxins” in the body. These “toxins” are essentially the body’s metabolic wastes that may accumulate in the organs if not properly removed from the body, resulting in acne breakouts on the corresponding areas on the face and the back. 3. You will get acne if you don’t wash your face often enough – Myth If you suffer from acne, you may have been told that it’s because you haven’t washed your face enough. This is a myth that has been debunked by many experts as washing your face in excess may actually cause more breakouts. [7] Excessive scrubbing and cleaning can strip your skin of moisture and essential oils, causing dryness which could lead to excess sebum production. Excessive face-washing can also interfere with the good bacteria on our skin that is necessary to keep our skin barrier healthy. As such, washing your face in moderation is key to preventing acne. In general, washing your face once in the morning and once at night is sufficient to keep your skin feeling clean and healthy. ORG treatments that can help prevent acne Herbal Medication In TCM, herbs are usually the first line of treatment against acne as they can address the body’s underlying imbalance, which is the root cause of acne outbreaks. Patients that suffer from acne due to Lung Heat or Stomach Heat will benefit from Wind Heat-dispelling herbs like Loquat Leaves, Mulberry Bark and Raw Licorice. On the other hand, patients with Damp Heat in their body can take Damp Heat-dispelling herbs like Yin Chen Hao Soup and Huang Lian Jie Du Tang. Facial Acupuncture Facial acupuncture is a treatment that involves the insertion of needles on the face. It is commonly used to treat acne and other facial skin conditions like skin sagging, dull skin, and even paralysis. As the needles used are thinner than regular acupuncture needles, there is minimal discomfort in the process. Facial acupuncture can help to improve local microcirculation and remove heat from the face and body. This helps to calm down acne flare-ups and prevent acne outbreaks. A 2018 study showed that a patient with rosacea who was treated with acupuncture 3 times a week experienced a significant decrease in symptoms. [8] Acupuncture can also speed up the healing of acne scars by inducing an accelerated wound-healing response, as shown in a 2020 study performed on diabetic patients. [9] Regular/Body Acupuncture If you suffer from hormonal acne or are experiencing breakouts caused by periods
Is Facial Acupuncture the new Botox?
Is Facial Acupuncture the new Botox? Link copied! Rejuvenating your skin and wellness naturally with Facial Acupuncture! A mere mention of acupuncture often makes people scrunch their face in anticipated pain, what more when you tell them that you will poke acupuncture needles into their face! While there has been a recent resurgence of interest in Facial Acupuncture, it has a long history. Before the Warring States period in Chinese history (475- 221 BC), acupuncture treatments for cosmetic purposes were mostly a luxury, generally reserved for the Empress and the Imperial concubines for their beauty, health and longevity. 1 More recent research points to the efficacy of Facial Acupuncture for aesthetic results. A 1996 report in the International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture reported that in 300 cases treated in China with cosmetic Facial Acupuncture, 90% reported marked effects with just one course of treatment. The effects included improvement in skin texture and colouring, increased elasticity, reduction of wrinkles and overall rejuvenation (not merely confined to the face). 2 However, acupuncture is not used to treat beauty concerns singularly because it is believed in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that beauty originates from inside out, given the strong relationship between health and appearance. From the TCM perspective, many meridians either start or end on the face or some have branches that go to the face, correlating the relationship of health and appearance. 3 For example, facial skin pigmentation is often associated with poor Qi and blood flow to the facial region. Hence, acupuncture can be applied to selected acupoints away from the face which in turn helps relieve the pigmentation. What exactly is Facial Acupuncture and how does it help your skin? Facial Acupuncture involves inserting thin and disposable acupuncture needles into specific points on the face, head and neck. This is usually for aesthetic purposes with a focus on facial anti-ageing and facial rejuvenation. Collagen is the protein responsible for tightness and vibrancy in the skin. Its production slows down as we age, which can lead to fine lines, wrinkles and a decline in elasticity in our skin. The act of needling into the skin causes positive micro-trauma to the skin which encourages blood flow and collagen production, leading to the treatment and prevention of the signs of ageing. The improved localized blood supply helps to strengthen and tighten the facial tissues for a glowing complexion. 4 [Facial Acupuncture] reduces the sign of aging by revitalizing the skin, brings youthful glow and cultivates Qi circulation, increase in blood flow, production of collagen & elastin, balances Qi, balancing internal zang fu organs. It enhances radiance of complexion rejuvenation for body, reduce stress, promote overall health & well-being diminish fine lines & wrinkles, age spots, decrease dark circles/bags, increases moisture decrease puffiness of entire face and under eyes, increases in facial muscle tone balances hormones, clears acne and hormonal acne, tightens pores, improves elasticity of facial muscles” — Lisa LaCova-Bhat, President of Lmar Integrative Holistic Medicine & Anti-Aging Therapies, Inc, USA How does Facial Acupuncture help with your wellness? In TCM, the body system is seen as a whole, and skin problems often reflect disharmony in the body. Facial Acupuncture aims to improve the body’s constitution and create balance in the internal environment of the body to bring out better complexion from within. Thus, other than stimulating acupoints on the face, related acupoints on other parts of the body, such as hands and legs, are also utilized. This will help to address the underlying root cause of the problem. The specific acupoints are chosen depending on the underlying health imbalances of the individual and their specific ageing concerns. According to the Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine reportedly written by a famous Chinese emperor around 2600 BC (Huang Di Nei Jing), the complexion, hair and skin are related to the state of the internal zang fu organs. [3] Specifically, the hair is governed by the kidneys and the skin is governed by the lungs. This medical classic also explores the relationship between diet, health, and appearance and has dietary recommendations for food and Chinese herbs. Unlike Western facial treatments, Facial Acupuncture is often not a quick fix. It is a customized treatment based on the body’s overall condition and offers a holistic approach to managing skin problems. This will help to create long term changes to the skin and body health, such as a brightened skin tone, reduced dark eye rings and improved skin elasticity leading to a sharper jawline. Similar to acupuncture, the common side effects of Facial Acupuncture is light bruising which happens in about 1 out of 5 sessions. It is almost a zero-downtime facial treatment as compared to other more invasive treatments. Who is Facial Acupuncture suitable for? Facial Acupuncture is safe for most healthy individuals. However, for people with skin infections, open wounds, tumours, bleeding disorders, serious health conditions and acute diseases, it is best to seek a consultation with our Physicians before embarking on Facial Acupuncture. In cases of severe acne, the session will be focused more on acupoints on the body rather than the face. What does a complete Facial Acupuncture treatment plan look like? A suggested treatment plan will be 10 sessions, 1-2 times a week, to see optimum results. After that, depending on the body’s condition, one can get a session every 2-4 weeks to maintain the results. Your beauty and wellness is the most important In Oriental Remedies Group, we have more than 10 certified bi-lingual TCM Physicians. Each of them has been trained in Nanyang Technological University (Singapore) and China for a minimum of 5-8 years, in both Biomedical Science and TCM before being certified to practice in Singapore. Specifically, we have Physician Poh who specializes in female beauty and infertility. After knowing all the benefits of Facial Acupuncture, are you ready to book a session with us and get the glow back to your skin? Please contact us at +65 8087 0486 for a personalized consultation. This article is written by Senior Physician Julie Low. Oriental Remedies Group, with contribution from Wellness Blogger Beatrice
