If you have needle phobia like me, then you probably balk at the very thought of getting injections. Maybe this is because of our experiences as kids, when we had to have all those vaccinations. So, as adults, we developed a slight aversion to needles. This makes acupuncture a bit off-putting for us. But, as we grow older, we take more and more risks in order to preserve our looks, to improve health and to increase strength. This is why individuals, even those who are somewhat afraid of needles, are trying out acupuncture. As they say, “no pain, no gain”; and the numerous benefits of acupuncture are just too tempting to ignore.

Facial Acupuncture

So, acupuncture is having someone stick needles in your body. This is to increase energy (qi) and improve blood flow (xue) to certain areas. As for facial acupuncture, it still is about sticking needles; only here, these will be inserted in specific parts of your face. If thoughts of facial paralysis are plaguing you right now, rest easy. Avoiding devastating mistakes is pretty simple. Just go to a certified expert and not just some back-alley clinic where you’re session will be done by someone who has suspicious certifications, or unsuitable education and experience. There are so many qualified acupuncturists out there, and you can readily get a referral from your regular physician as well.

3 Elements That Make Facial Acupuncture Work – Really Well

There are three vital elements that all work together to make facial acupuncture work. These are: (1) improved blood flow; (2) increased energy; and (3) micro irritations (some call this “micro trauma”).

When a needle is inserted in the body or face, this causes a minute injury. The body responds quickly to injury, sending red and white blood cells, and other microorganisms to the injured site in order to speed up healing and to stop potentially harmful foreign bodies from invading the body. Ever notice how a small cut becomes red and inflamed almost in an instant? This is because the body is working super fast at healing the injury as it also fights off foreign elements that may harm the body and cause internal imbalance. With acupuncture, however, the injuries due to needle pricks are too small to warrant a severe inflamed response. Still, the body is jolted to improve blood flow to that area to “heal” the injury.

There are several advantages to improved circulation. With better circulation, the body and face is able to get rid of toxins and other contaminants much more quickly. In addition to this, the more blood goes or passes through a certain area, the more oxygen, nutrients and much needed water are sent to that place. These essential elements not only aid in healing, but these also benefit the face in a number of wonderful ways. For instance, improved circulation helps in evening out the skin tone. So, with regular facial acupuncture, you’ll notice your skin becoming more rosy-looking. You’ll also see how dark spots gradually disappear. In time, you’ll enjoy more radiant skin.

As for fine lines and wrinkles, the increased activity or energy in certain areas encourage minute muscles to regularly contract and relax. The stimulation of muscles helps decrease skin sagging as it improves muscle tone. Experts also claim that repeated facial acupuncture promotes elastin and collagen production. These substances improve skin elasticity; and the more elastic the skin is, the less prone it is to wrinkling.

Claire Kurt often writes about health and beauty. She blogs for AlbanAcupuncture.com, which is a renowned acupuncture clinic in New York.