motion a process that can stimulate collagen and elastin production. And this, in turn, can create a more youthful looking appearance. Sandra: How many treatments are recommended for the initial program? What about a maintenance program? Terry: Every person is different, so an evaluation is necessary before I can recommend a specific number of treatments. But on average, it’s typically between 12-20. Ideally, the patient receives treatments twice per week.
Sandra: Thank you, Terry! Diana, tell us about Chinese Medicine Dermatology now. What types of herbal products are available at Zi Zai Dermatology to supplement the cosmetic acupuncture program? Diana: At Zi Zai Dermatology, we handcraft the 100% natural skincare products that are used in our facial cosmetic treatments in the clinic. We have 4 different lines, each one formulated according to the needs of different complexions. We have a line of products for complexions prone to acne, one for sensitive or red complexions, one for skin with dark spots or that needs brightening, and a line for dry skin that needs more nourishment. Each of the 4 product lines has formulations to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. We use exquisite organic oils and the highest quality Chinese herbs to craft our products. We would never use harsh, unsafe or unnatural products on your skin in our clinic. Our products are available in our shop so that clients can continue to properly care for their skin at home, even after the facial acupuncture series has been completed. Sandra: Is there anything else you’d like to tell our readers about cosmetic acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Dermatology? Diana: Cosmetic facial acupuncture is an effective, safe and completely natural approach to aging gracefully. If there are additional inflammatory skin conditions present such as acne, rosacea, melasma, eczema seborrheic dermatitis or perioral dermatitis, then Chinese Herbal Medicine becomes the treatment of choice. Herbal prescriptions are custom formulated for the individual patient and topical herbal preparations (ointment, creams, washes) can be applied externally to help the skin heal. Terry is the cosmetic acupuncture specialist here, and I am the Chinese Medicine Dermatology specialist. We make a great team for keeping your complexion and whole body vibrant and healthy. Sandra: Thank you both for sharing this wonderful information about cosmetic acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Dermatology! PHOTOS: CHRISTINA GRESSIANU
2007 when he offered to teach me the technique, I took the opportunity. It was another chance to learn something unique from Doc. What I saw in that training blew my mind. I could see visible differences in the patient’s skin and musculature. I could see how vital and vibrant they looked in comparison to how they appeared before the treatment. And I could see how happy the patients were with their results. Personally, I feel joyous seeing women rediscover their radiance. I love seeing them genuinely smile as they look at themselves in the mirror. I love being able to help them reclaim their vibrancy and vitality. And that’s what makes cosmetic and facial acupuncture such fun for me — being able to witness the Feminine in its truest authenticity. Sandra: What are the goals of cosmetic acupuncture and how does it achieve them? Terry: Cosmetic and facial acupuncture are simply an extension of what I was taught in acupuncture school. The information I learned enhanced what I already knew and took it to a whole new level. As the adage goes, “the devil is in the details.” My cosmetic acupuncture work is a more subtle and detailed version of the standard acupuncture I use every day. I had no idea I could use acupuncture to reduce the look of fine lines, to help raise sagging eyelids or reduce puffy bags under the eyes. It can also help lift the breasts and tighten the abdominals. In my opinion, the greatest goal of facial acupuncture is to facilitate a patient’s authentic love of themselves. Acupuncture is a holistic modality that addresses the whole person — mental, emotional and physical. Often, lines on the face are a product of chronically repeated emotional responses. We may chat about those lines, what emotions are related to them and what steps a patient can take to change those habitual responses. As far as physical goals, the idea is to help the body rejuvenate tissue through its own innate healing capacity. The needles create minute trauma in the tissue that the body then heals. This stimulates blood circulation and sets in
Before
After I recommend patients receive “tuneup” treatments once per month for 3 months, then 4 treatments per year (usually at the change of seasons). Depending upon diet and lifestyle, results from facial acupuncture can last 3-5 years. Sandra: What other lifestyle choices would support a more youthful appearance? Terry: Proper diet and hydration are key, along with mindset and positive self-talk. Currently I’m developing an online coaching program to teach my patients about healthy lifestyle choices and how to implement them. Look for that in the coming months.
22 Regenerate • October/November/December 2017 • www.RegenerateMagazine.com