nism of acupuncture in anti-skin aging. The study concluded that acupuncture can change the state of the skin by possibly strengthening the activity of fibroblasts in the skin and increasing the content of soluble collagen. Cosmetic acupuncture improves blood flow to the face, thereby hydrating and boosting the skin’s supply of nutrients and oxygen, which is beneficial in reducing the signs of aging. According to the latest research in dermatology and Dr. Howard Murad, a professor of dermatology at UCLA, the problem is free radicals. Aging skin, which includes wrinkles, sagging, enlarged pores, puffiness and thin, dry skin, are due to damage caused by free radicals. There are many causes for free radicals, including the foods we eat, environmental toxins we breathe, certain products we apply to our skin, and smoking. Free radicals are destructive molecules that denature the integrity of other molecules and cells in our bodies. Unfortunately, free radicals first attack and destroy the walls of your skin cells. Cosmetic acupuncture can stimulate the nervous, circulatory and endocrine systems, and increased circulation helps to neutralize free radicals and decrease inflammation. Stimulation of the dermis can potentially lead to increased collagen and elastin that can also regenerate skin, repairing fine lines and past skin damage.
Cosmetic and Health Benefits
Some of the most common effects of facial rejuvenation include: • A reduction in fine lines • Minimization of the beginnings of jowls • An improvement in acne and rosacea • Reduction of under-eye puffiness • Lifting of droopy eyes • Improved facial and neck tone • Softer, more vibrant skin • More balanced skin tone • Fading of age spots • Enhanced natural glow and vitality that reflects innate health and radiance of the body, mind and spirit Cosmetic acupuncture also is a great treatment for alleviating stress and anxiety, a benefit that is especially important around the holiday season. It’s
helpful in improving sleep patterns and energy levels, as well as helping with weight control. These positive “side effects” are due to the regulation of your body’s internal environment.
Getting the Proper Care
When receiving a cosmetic acupuncture treatment it is important to ensure that the practitioner is giving you a full body acupuncture treatment in addition to the facial acupuncture points and that this treatment is specifically designed for imbalances in your body that can create the above mentioned problems. At the Active Center for Health and Wellness, we are trained in a specific style of cosmetic acupuncture known as Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture™. Developed by Martha Lucas, PhD, L.Ac, this style of cosmetic acupuncture rejuvenates the face by balancing the internal environment with a personalized body treatment and a highly successful face or neck protocol that includes traditional acupuncture points. Additionally, at the Active Center for Health and Wellness, we use a natural, organic skin care line and serums that help diminish free radicals to achieve maximum results. Afraid that needles are not for you? Not to worry. Many practitioners are trained in micro-current therapy, which can be used instead of acupuncture needles for the face or neck protocol, and arrangements can be made to supplement this modality into the treatment. In 2003, a study at the University of Washington was conducted on facial micro-current. Results showed a 35% increase in blood circulation to the tissue, 10% increase in collagen and a 45% increase in the number of elastin fibers in the dermis. Each cosmetic acupuncture treatment lasts apContinued on pg. 114
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