Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been practiced for more than five thousand years, this makes it one of the oldest and most thoroughly tried and tested medical disciplines in the world today. In recent times, through extensive clinical trials, acupuncture has been shown to improve pain conditions, and is endorsed by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) for the treatment of back pain. The WHO (World Health Organisation) have also proven acupuncture to be effective in treating over 150 conditions.

See The British Acupuncture Council website and The World Health Organization website for details of the wide range of conditions that acupuncture can be used to treat.

Traditional Chinese Medicine views the body as an organic whole with a network of meridians which control the smooth flow of qi (energy) throughout the body.

It is thought that stress, emotions, over work, diet and a hectic lifestyle can cause blockages in the meridians leading to stagnation and disease in the body. Acupuncture is believed to work by regulating the meridians or channels of the body to unblock the stagnation of qi, regaining balance and harmony within the body.

When you come for an Acupuncture treatment no two people are ever treated the same and will be tailored to your individual needs. A full case history is taken regarding your presenting condition. Ancient tongue and pulse diagnosis used for thousands of years will be taken to determine how your body is functioning internally and where your imbalances lie. Following the consultation, Chinese sliding cupping may be used if there is tightness or tension; common in the upper back, this is done using a delightful blend of chinese oils with an amazing aroma. Cupping is extremely relaxing and releasing and patients love it. Finally; small single-use disposable acupuncture needles are inserted into specific points using a guide tube. The guide tube presses into the skin and de-sensitises the area making the experience pain-free , you may be asked it you notice a slight tingling, spreading or dull sensation which is a good sign the point is stimulated. You will be left to rest and relax in a warm quiet environment while the needles do their job. The experience is very relaxing and most patients fall asleep, waking refreshed and energized. Dietary advice, herbs and exercise may also be recommended alongside the treatment.

Cosmetic Acupuncture

As seen on Louise Redknapps How Not to Get Old

Facial Acupuncture, I never knew it existed, but I swear by it now, it helps fine lines and wrinkles, it’s given my skin a really healthy glow. It’s inexspensive and you could have it done on your lunch break
- Louise Redknapp

A natural alternative to botox
- VOGUE

People have reported that cosmetic acupuncture treatments are effective in clearing skin, improving circulation and providing a radiant and hydrated glow throughout. It improves skin tone, reduces redness, tones muscles and lessons the impact of fine lines, laughter lines and forehead furrows. It has become a safe and effective alternative to the use of therapies such as botox and restyliane. The fine facial needles essentially cause micro damage to the wrinkle causing it to go into collagen production overdrive.

The treatment starts with a rose water and glycerine compress followed by the insertion of fine intra-dermal needles which are placed on specific points around the face and on lines around the mouth, the frown lines between the eyes and the laughter lines around the eyes. Under eye bags can be reduced and a sagging chin stimulated to become more taught. Fine lines can disappear, deep wrinkles soften and dry skin becomes more lustrous. The needles are retained for 20 minutes, most people find this very relaxing, and are removed, followed by a gentle facial massage using a blend of luxury essential oils renowned for their rejuvenating and anti-aging properties. Finally the skin is sealed and cooled using jade stone. Only single use disposable needles are used. Acupuncture points on your arms and legs may also be needled in order to support your overall health.

Any number of treatments can be given, but 6-10 treatments on a weekly, or twice weekly basis, is recommended. Each person responds differently, depending on his or her constitution and lifestyle, but usually the effects become most noticeable following the third session. Following the initial course of treatment, monthly maintenance sessions can be provided to prolong your results.

Cosmetic Acupuncture has been used in Asia for more than three thousand years. In addition, in 1996, a study was carried out and published in the International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture which reported that among 300 cases treated with Cosmetic Acupuncture, 90% had marked effects with one full course of treatment. The effects included: the skin becoming delicate and fair, improvement of the elasticity of facial muscles and levelling of wrinkles, and an overall rejuvenation - not only restricted to the tissues of the face.

Cosmetic Acupuncture has received a lot of positive coverage in the mainstream media recently and is favoured by film stars such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Angelina Jolie, but it is definitely not new. It has been practiced in China for thousands of years. At least as early as the Sung Dynasty (960AD-1270AD) records show Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture was used by the Empress and the Emperor’s concubines to improve their appearance.

Whilst Cosmetic Acupuncture does not produce the same radical effects of cosmetic surgery, it is a popular and more natural alternative. It is safe, not as costly, it has no side effects, there is no risk of disfigurement. After a treatment, there may be some redness. This lasts only a few hours and then disappears, apart from that, you can expect to feel relaxed and refreshed following treatment.

Lily has completed a BSc Hons degree in Acupuncture awarded by Westminster University and an additional specialised training course with experts in this field and is certified and fully insured to provide Cosmetic Acupuncture.

To make an appointment to have Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture with Lily you can contact her here.