Cosmetic Acupuncture

Cosmetic acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles into specific points on the face and body to promote healing, enhance circulation, and stimulate the body’s natural ability to rejuvenate and restore itself. This treatment is often referred to as facial rejuvenation acupuncture. 

It is based on the principles of TCM, which views health as a balance of Qi, blood, and bodily functions.

  • Qi and Blood Flow: TCM suggests that stagnation of Qi and blood can lead to poor skin tone, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. By inserting needles into strategic points, acupuncture may promote circulation, enhance the flow of Qi and blood to the facial area.

  • Collagen Production: the micro-trauma caused by needle insertion may stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, essential proteins that help maintain the skin's elasticity and firmness.

  • Facial Muscle Tone: cosmetic acupuncture may help relax tense muscles in the face, smooth fine lines and enhancing the natural contours of the face.

  • Stimulating Acupoints: specific acupoints are targeted based on individual needs. For example, points that are indicated for hydration, toning, or reducing inflammation may be selected, addressing not just aesthetic concerns but also supports general wellbeing.

How it works

A woman receiving an acupuncture treatment while lying down, with a practitioner inserting a thin needle into her face.

  • A thorough assessment is conducted during the first visit, including a discussion of your medical history, skin concerns, and overall health. This informs the treatment plan.

  • Each session typically lasts between 60 to 90 minutes. I will insert tiny needles into selected points on the face and may also include points on the body to address underlying health issues. Clients often report feeling relaxed during the treatment.

  • A series of treatments is usually recommended for optimal results, often ranging from 6 to 12 sessions, spaced out weekly or bi-weekly. Then maintenance treatments.

  • After treatment, clients are advised to stay hydrated, avoid intense sun exposure, and maintain a balanced diet to support the treatment's effects

What to expect

Cosmetic acupuncture utilises a variety of tools and techniques. Here are the primary tools commonly used in cosmetic acupuncture:

  • Acupuncture Needles: inserted into specific acupuncture points on the face and body.

  • Microneedling: creates micro-injuries in the skin to stimulate collagen production, often used in conjunction with acupuncture. While primarily a separate treatment, microneedling may sometimes complement cosmetic acupuncture treatments.

  • Jade Rollers and Gua Sha Tools: often used in conjunction with cosmetic acupuncture treatments. Jade rollers may help reduce puffiness and improve circulation, while gua sha is a scraping technique that may enhance lymphatic drainage and skin texture.

  • Herbal Preparations: such as topical herbal ointments or serums post-treatment.

  • Electroacupuncture: used to enhance the effects of acupuncture by increasing stimulation of the acupoints.

  • Cupping: may be performed alongside cosmetic acupuncture to support blood flow and lymphatic drainage. 

Tools & Techniques

Two facial rollers, one with a white handle and one in pink, on a white surface with a white jar in the background.
A woman receiving a facial cupping as part of a cosmetic acupuncture treatment.
A woman receiving a facial gua Sha treatment with a heart-shaped crystal gua Sha on her cheek.
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Sources

  • Ahn, A. C., Colbert, A. P., Anderson, B. J., Martinsen, O. G., Hammerschlag, R., Cina, S., Wayne, P.M. & Langevin, H. M. (2008). Electrical properties of acupuncture points and meridians: A systematic review. Bioelectromagnetics, 29(4), 245–256. https://doi.org/10.1002/bem.20403

  • Cosmetic Acupuncture Melbourne. (n.d.). How cosmetic acupuncture works. Retrieved July 9, 2025, from https://www.cosmeticacupuncturemelbourne.com.au/cosmetic-acupuncture/how-it-works/

  • Huang, T., Wang, R.H., Zhang, W.B., Han, B., Wang, G.J., Tian, Y.Y., & Zhang, Y.Q. (2012). The influence of different methods of acupuncture on skin surface perfusion. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 32(1), 40-44. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0254-6272(12)60029-6

  • Lee, H. J., Choi, J. Y., & Lee, Y. J. (2013). Effect of facial cosmetic acupuncture on facial elasticity: An open-label, single-arm pilot study. Acupuncture in Medicine, 31(3), 275–279. https://www.acuwellnessclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Effect-of-Facial-Cosmetic-Acupuncture-on-Facial-Elasticity.pdf

  • Lumiere Acupuncture. (n.d.). Cosmetic acupuncture. Retrieved July 9, 2025, from https://lumiereacupuncture.com.au/cosmetic-acupuncture

  • Ogino, M., Iijima, M., Okada, Y., Okuda, I. (2024). Effect of Facial Acupuncture Stimulation: MRI-Based Masseter Muscle Volume Analysis and Questionnaire Evaluation, Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum, 6. https://doi.org/10.1093/asjof/ojae109

  • Yun, Y., Kim, S., Kim, M., Kim, K., Park, J. S., & Choi, I. (2013). Effect of facial cosmetic acupuncture on facial elasticity: an open-label, single-arm pilot study. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine. https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/424313