This all depends on the goals you have and the treatment plan you want to commit to. Many of our patients use these treatments similar to a seasonal facial - this will give your skin a boost of nutrients and blood flow, relieve tension in your face and reduce any puffiness that might be present. Others have more specific goals such as reducing acne or rosacea, or reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This will take more regular treatments - anywhere from 4-10 weekly sessions (your practitioner will be able to give you an idea of what your particular needs are after the first session). Everyone responds differently and in our experience, diet and lifestyle factors cannot be overlooked when it comes to the health and vibrancy of your skin. Your practitioner will help you identify areas where you might be able to improve in this regard, and support you in making those changes.

Acupuncture can typically achieve a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. For newer fine lines, it’s not uncommon to see them resolve entirely. Acupuncture is quite effective at reducing redness and inflammation, such as that which is found in rosacea. Acne, especially cystic, can often be reduced significantly however internal medicine (diet, herbs, hormone balancing) also needs to be considered in this case. Overall, patients report an improved complexion and tone of their skin.

Acupuncture is a very safe procedure. Needles are single use and sterile, and the practitioner is a registered acupuncturist who has had extensive training in this modality. Bruising is always a possibility, but due to how tiny the needles are, rarely occurs. Patients who are taking blood thinning medication or are particularly prone to bruising have a higher risk of this.

This is a super common question! Acupuncture should not be a painful experience. The vast majority of patients are taken aback at how relaxing they feel after the session. Because the needles are so tiny, there are many that you won’t feel at all. Some points, especially those on your hands and feet, will elicit a sensation when they are first inserted; this might be felt as a muscle twitch, a flash of sensation through the point, tingling, warmth, or a dull ache. Any discomfort should dissipate right away. Some of the facial points can be more sensitive and elicit more of a sharp sensation when they are first inserted. This too will dissipate right away, but for people with significant needle phobias, this treatment might not be the best one for you.