Traditional Chinese Medicine
+ The Face
In Traditional Chinese Medicine the face can be seen as a micro-system of the entire organism with various areas of the face mirroring one’s health at a physical and emotional level. In Five Element Theory, the five sense organs, eyes, tongue, mouth, nose, and ears all reside on the head and correspond to the five major internal organs, liver, heart, spleen, lungs, and kidneys. The deep, internal organs can be likened to the root of a plant which rises to blossom on the face as the vehicles through which we perceive the world.
Treating the face with cosmetic acupuncture or with a TCM focused facial stimulates the local acupuncture channels in the face activating the smooth flow of qi and blood. This process increases collagen production resulting in firmer skin and the reduced appearance of fine lines.
The lustre of a person’s skin, much like the sparkle in their eyes, are an expression of inner health and vitality.
This oil of amethyst infused hyluronic acid is handcrafted by Phiona Gitsham, Doctor of Chinese Medicine at her alchemical lab Bio HerboloQi in Vermont, USA. This violet hued serum is an integral part of our TCM Rejuvenation Facial Treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does cosmetic acupuncture work?
Cosmetic acupuncture involves the insertion of many fine needles into target areas on the face and neck. This process stimulates an increased production of collagen and elastin at the desired areas. In TCM terms acupuncture increases the flow of qi and blood to the face. Not only does the complexion appear smoother, but a noticeable brightness illuminates the face. While one session will produce a noticeably brighter complexion, several sessions done over the course of five to six weeks are necessary to visibly decrease deep lines and wrinkles and create visible lift.
What product line do you use in your TCM Rejuvenation Facial?
The products I use are handcrafted by Phiona Gitsham, Doctor of Chinese Medicine at her alchemical lab Bio HerboloQi, in Vermont. What I admire about Phiona’s products is the union of TCM herbal medicine with spagyric alchemy. This brilliant approach produces superior herbal products that are nutrient dense and have maximum bioavailability for improved absorbption. The herbs, oils and butters she uses are of the highest purity and rigorously tested to ensure they’re free from contaminants such as pesticides and heavy metals. For more information on these products and spagyric alchemy please visit bioherboloqi.com .
Can I get cosmetic acu when I’ve had botox?
Cosmetic acupuncture and botox work in opposite ways in the body. Botox essentially blocks the muscles in the face from contracting, in TCM terms this is a form of blood stasis and qi stagnation. Cosmetic acupuncture increases the circulation of qi and blood to the tissues of the face so it may negate or shorten the effect of the botox you've had done. Cosmetic acupuncture can still be used on areas of the face that have not received botox. In addition it can be beneficial to get cosmetic acupuncture between botox injections to help maintain the tone of facial muscles so that they don’t become lax over time.
Is cosmetic acupuncture covered by extended health insurance like regular acupuncture?
Yes, all treatments that are within the scope of practice of a Registered Acupuncturist (this includes cosmetic acupuncture) are billed as acupuncture and can be submitted to your extended health insurance provider as such.