Being a pin-up: The low-down on facial acupuncture

Back in 2007, The New York Times proclaimed: “Hold the chemicals, bring on the needles.” This seal of approval for facial acupuncture had been a long time coming; its older cousin, body acupuncture, has been used for millennia in Chinese medicine to rebalance energy and cure all manner of ills. Over the past decade or so, more and more have moved away from invasive procedures, like Botox, to this natural regenerative solution. Isn’t it time you did too?
 
What does it involve?
 
Super-fine needles are gently placed along key tension points across your face. In Chinese medicine it is thought that any problem with the liver, heart, lung, spleen or kidney manifests itself on the face in the form of puffiness, dehydration, dark circles and acne. A lacklustre skin tone might suggest digestive problems, for example. Acupuncture soothes the complexion while also harmonising the underlying bodily stresses.

Needles are left in place for 20 minutes, during which time you can doze in utter serenity, listening to soothing music. Then, the needles are delicately removed and the face is gently massaged.Tuning fork sound therapy or jade rollers can be used to complete the wonder-working ritual.
 
How does it work?
 
At a very basic level, acupuncture works by unblocking ‘stuck’ energy (known as the chi), while boosting circulation and releasing endorphins. The combined effect is a relaxed, nurtured state, reducing tension in the muscles that can lead to wrinkles. It can also help stimulate the production of collagen, creating more elasticity and bounce in the complexion.
 
What are the results?
 
The results are nothing short of amazing – anxiety floats away and the skin glows. Over a course of sessions, wrinkles are reduced, the complexion brightens and skin becomes more plump and taut. Think of it as Botox, the natural way.
 
Before your treatment
 
You’ll need to remove your make-up before an acupuncture facial, just as you would for any other skincare treatment. At Marlene Method, we complete a thorough holistic health check at this point, helping to identify particular issues to target. We also provide our clients with wellbeing recommendations to support the skin post-facial.