Constitutional Facial Acupuncture is a full constitutional treatment that traditionally views the face as an extension of both the emotions and the acupuncture meridians of the body. When the face is treated, the body interprets the insertion of the very fine (0.12mm) acupuncture needle as a "positive" injury which research suggests may then stimulate collagen and elastin production.
Collagen is the primary component of the body's connective tissue. About 80% of the dermis -- the part of your skin that's under the epidermis (outer layer) -- is collagen. Collagen gives your skin strength. .Elastin a highly elastic protein in connective tissue and allows many tissues in the body to resume their shape after stretching or contracting. Elastin helps skin to return to its original position when it is poked or pinched.
The Constitutional Facial Acupuncture protocol is more than just acupuncture. It is deeply relaxing and is designed to treat both skin and underlying constitutional health helping to improve the appearance of the face as well as the body’s overall function.
What does treatment involve?
After a full consultation and diagnosis of any underlying health conditions or symptoms, each session begins with a herbal face wash, followed by a warm mask utilizing Chinese herbs. Acupuncture is then carried out. Firstly, very fine acupuncture needles are placed in the body, to improve underlying symptoms. These fine needles are then placed at a variety of acupuncture points on the face and neck to bring the Qi and blood to the areas that are to be treated. This two-stage approach means that Qi and blood are already available to nourish the face and assist with problems such as wrinkles, scars, discoloration, loss of muscle tone or conditions such as Bell's Palsy and post stoke paralysis. The muscles of the face feel toned and tightened with the stimulation of acupuncture points, also stimulating circulation to improve facial colour.
Once the needles are removed from the body and face, a light stimulating facial massage is given using Tui Na techniques and smooth, cooling jade rollers. All products used are hypoallergenic and made using traditional Chinese herbal formulas. Each treatment is specifically tailored to the individual.
Practitioner Rose Pinter (BHScAc) has studied Constitutional Facial Acupuncture and completed the advanced course in Australia under protocol developer Mary Elizabeth Wakefield (L.Ac, M.S., M.M.) from the Chi-Akra Centre, New York City, USA.