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3 Things To Know About Facial Acupuncture According To A Pro
In the latest episode of mindbodygreen’s beauty podcast, Clean Beauty School, board-certified Doctor of Chinese Medicine and an NCCAOM Licensed Acupuncturist, Debbie Kung, DAOM, LAc, dives deep into the world of facial acupuncture. While often marketed as cosmetic acupuncture, Kung emphasizes that it is ultimately the most comprehensive acupuncture treatment available.
This podcast episode explores the intricate benefits of facial acupuncture for the skin, face, and body. Kung explains that this holistic treatment not only addresses cosmetic concerns but can also significantly improve issues such as inflammation, pain, and digestive health. The way we appear externally is closely linked to our internal health, she notes, emphasizing the treatment’s internal healing properties.
If you’re considering facial acupuncture, here are three key takeaways you won’t want to miss:
1. It Can Help Improve Collagen Production & Skin Appearance
One of the main attractions of facial acupuncture is its ability to enhance the skin’s appearance, particularly through increased collagen production. Collagen is the key structural protein that maintains skin elasticity and firmness. However, factors such as aging, UV exposure, and stress contribute to a decrease in collagen over time.
Facial acupuncture helps rejuvenate collagen levels by inducing microtrauma through tiny needle placements in the face. This process stimulates the body’s healing mechanisms, similar to microneedling but reaching deeper layers of the skin – the dermis and muscle layers. “This other depth helps not only the epidermis but also rejuvenates the connective tissues,” Kung explains. “[It] forces fresh blood and qi flow into the skin and muscles, which is essential for keeping connective tissues supple and youthful.”
2. Facial Acupuncture Protocols Often Start With the Body
Interestingly, although it’s called facial acupuncture, practitioners may begin with bodywork before addressing facial issues. According to Kung, optimal blood circulation and qi flow to the face are crucial, but addressing any underlying physical ailments is paramount first. This means that your practitioner may focus on regular acupuncture for the body before delving into cosmetic procedures.
Listening to your practitioner is essential, as starting with body treatments can ultimately yield better cosmetic results. Kung clarifies, “We could technically dive into cosmetic acupuncture, but the results wouldn’t be as good.”
3. You Need To Do Work at Home Between Sessions
Facial acupuncture is not a one-time miracle solution; it requires commitment and lifestyle changes to achieve the best results. Unlike some have quick fixes, facial acupuncture involves a process that necessitates multiple treatments—typically at least ten—to notice significant changes.
Kung emphasizes the importance of home care: “As much as I can treat you for one hour out of the day, if you’re returning to habits like drinking wine, smoking, or eating processed foods, the results will be diminished.” At-home protocols may include wearing sunscreen, maximizing sleep, and focusing on a diet rich in warming, comforting foods.
The commitment to change extends to physical activity as well. Kung advises reducing high-intensity workouts during the treatment period, allowing the body to focus its energy on healing.
Tune in to Learn More
If you’re intrigued by the benefits of facial acupuncture, be sure to tune in to the full podcast episode of Clean Beauty School for a comprehensive understanding and more tips from Debbie Kung. It’s an enlightening discussion that uncovers the depths of this holistic treatment and its potential to enhance not just your skin, but your overall health.
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