Cosmetic Acupuncture

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Acupuncture, which is used to treat a plethora of ailments from asthma to arthritis, can also be performed for cosmetic reasons. Cosmetic acupuncture is performed to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a more rejuvenated look.

Cosmetic Acupuncture Overview - 856

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The Skinny


Average Recovery

0 days

Permanence

Temporary

Application

Injected

Surgical

No

Cost

$50 - $100

The Specifics


What is cosmetic acupuncture?

Cosmetic acupuncture (a.k.a. facial acupuncture or ‘natural Botox’) is a non-surgical, temporary cosmetic procedure to reduce signs of aging and refresh the appearance. Similar to traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture, which is used to correct Qi or life force energy, cosmetic acupuncture strategically places small needles into the skin to cause microdamage activating the body’s healing response.

This so-called natural Botox is not as effective as an injection of botulinum toxin type A, however, it too stimulates elastin and collagen production and plumps skin with little to no risk of side effects. Cosmetic acupuncture is primarily used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

What cosmetic concerns does a cosmetic acupuncture procedure treat?

  1. Fine Lines & Wrinkles: Cosmetic acupuncture stimulates the body’s healing response, and production of collagen and elastin for facial rejuvenation.

Who is the ideal candidate for a cosmetic acupuncture procedure?

The ideal candidate for cosmetic acupuncture is looking to safely and temporarily improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Cosmetic acupuncture is safe in dark skin tones. Cosmetic acupuncture is not recommended for individuals with mild, moderate, or deep fine lines and wrinkles who will require a more aggressive treatment modality.

What is the average recovery associated with a cosmetic acupuncture procedure?

There is little to no recovery following a cosmetic acupuncture treatment. Candidates resume all normal activities and skincare immediately following the treatment. In rare cases, some visible bruising or minimal bleeding may occur at the needle insertion site.

What are the potential side effects of a cosmetic acupuncture procedure?

Side effects following cosmetic acupuncture are minimal and rare, but may include bruising or bleeding at the acupuncture points.

What can someone expect from the results of a cosmetic acupuncture procedure?

The results of cosmetic acupuncture are temporary and develop over a series of five to 10 initial treatment sessions. Once the desired results have been achieved, many candidates will switch to maintenance sessions every five weeks or so.

What is the average cost of a cosmetic acupuncture procedure?

Cosmetic acupuncture costs anywhere from $50 to $100. The actual cost of a cosmetic acupuncture is dependent upon location, acupuncturist, and length and involvement of the cosmetic procedure.

thumbs-upPros

  • Less Expensive
  • All Skin Tones
  • All Skin Types

thumbs-downCons

  • Multiple Treatments
  • Temporary

Invasiveness Score

1
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10

Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.

What to Expect


Cosmetic acupuncture is performed to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a more rejuvenated look. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after a cosmetic acupuncture treatment.

The Takeaway


Considered a natural alternative to botulinum toxin type A injections like Botox®, Dysport®, Jeuveau®, and Xeomin®, cosmetic acupuncture provides a "mini facelift" by stimulating elastin and collagen production through microtrauma to reduce puffiness, sagging, and the appearance of early signs of aging.

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Source List

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AEDIT uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. American Academy of Dermatology Many Ways to Firm Sagging Skin
  2. The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery Skin Tightening americanboardofcosmeticsurgery.org
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