Acupuncture for Skincare: Does it Work?

Whether you’re a fan of needles or not, chances are that you’ve heard of acupuncture – and you may have even given it a try before. If so, you’re not alone: this form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used across cultures for centuries to help treat pain, manage stress, regulate the body, and more.

But did you know that acupuncture can also be used as a form of skincare? Here’s everything you need to know about cosmetic acupuncture on your face (and if it really works).

Acupuncture: The Broader Context

As a form of Chinese medicine, acupuncture is known to balance “vital energy” – or qi – that flows through meridians, or pathways, in the body.

By inserting needles into specific points along those meridians, acupuncture practitioners believe they can rebalance that qi energy and create a steady, even flow through the body.

And it even has merit from a western perspective, as western practitioners believe that the needles can stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissue. Ultimately, this is used to help with conditions like:

• Dental pain
• Lower back pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Arthritis
• Respiratory disorders
• Digestion disorders

Using Acupuncture For Your Skincare

So how does it work when used for skincare?

During a cosmetic acupuncture session, needles are applied directly to your face to target things like:

• Excess fluid and puffiness
• Breakouts
• Dull skin
• Collagen and elastin
• Cell turnover
• Circulation

And it has many possible benefits, including:

Increased Collagen Production

According to practitioners, acupuncture can stimulate fibroblast cells in the skin. This, in turn, can promote the production of new collagen and elastin.

It also can stimulate lymphatic drainage and increase blood flow to the face. Both mechanisms support collagen production, ultimately helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Decreased Redness and Acne

Though it’s not scientifically proven, there is also anecdotal evidence that shows that cosmetic acne can help battle breakouts and acne. 

How? By encouraging lymphatic drainage, acupuncture helps remove toxins and excess fluids from the skin that may contribute to breakouts.

Reduced Inflammation

Finally, by encouraging circulation, acupuncture is also known to stimulate the immune response and decrease inflammation throughout the body.

Brighter, tighter, and more even-looking skin? Sign us up.