There are two types of aging; internal from our genes and external from the environment we live in.
Most external premature aging is caused by the sun however other factors increase this degeneration such as sun beds, smoking, air pollution, rapid weight loss, sleeping positions, excess or erratic lifestyle and not forgetting gravity.

Prevention
While aging is a natural process and our genetic makeup determines the speed in which this process occurs, we can avoid speeding this up by being more aware of the external aging factors surrounding our day to day lives.
The main culprits of this are sun exposure and smoking. Stopping smoking is the easiest way to eliminate one of these however it is impractical to quit sun exposure therefore awareness and sensible sun protection is the most effective course of action.

Chinese Medicine’s view on aging
Chinese Medicine believes that health and emotions can be seen in the face like a mirror, reflecting the strength or weakness of internal organs and the flow of Blood and energy throughout the body.
Therefore to keep a healthy and youthful appearance, attention must be paid to all round health.
Chinese medicine, like with any health issue, not only treats the outwardly signs of aging but also addresses the deeper inner strength of the body to allow the body to reflect this outwardly onto the skin. Acupuncture together with internal and external herbs, diet and lifestyle changes can allow the skin to reflect a healthier, younger complexion.

Cosmetic Acupuncture
Acupuncture points on the face have been used for thousands of years to help combat signs of ageing and now in modern times can be a more natural alternative to invasive surgical or cosmetic methods. Acupuncture has been proven to increase the flow of blood through the skin, hydrating and boosting the skin’s supply of oxygen and nutrients, thus reducing the signs of ageing.

Acupuncture Vs Surgery
Although surgery can show an instant transformation, Acupuncture can be an easier and more natural alternative.

Acupuncture is:
Far less expensive
Virtually painless
Has no side effects or risks of disfigurement

Acupuncture can help to:
Improves collagen production
Improves tone and dermal contraction
Increases blood and energy circulation
Reduces frown lines
Reduces double chin
Reduces bags and sagging skin
Lifts drooping eye lids
Brightens the eyes
Oxygenates the skin
Increases lymph circulation

Moisturises the skin from inside
Improves facial colour
Tightens pores
Eliminates fine lines
Diminishes larger wrinkles
Soften scars
Improves hormonal balance to reduce acne
Gives rosy cheeks to people with dull, tired looking skin
Nourishes the skin
Generates naturally glowing, radiant, younger looking skin

What to expect
Like with any health problem which is to be treated with Chinese Medicine a full diagnosis is necessary to determine the course of treatment. This will be done through a consultation you’re your practitioner who will enquire about any relevant lifestyle issues and general health which could be improved to help with the complexion.

The problem areas of skin (commonly the face) will then assessed to see where there needs to be improvement with skin tone etc. A number of fine needles will then be inserted around these areas, often as well as other supportive points on the body, and left for a period of time (often 20 minutes).
Once these needles have been carefully removed, massage to the affected areas will be done, often with a herbal cream suitable for your constitution. This massage can be done with either the fingers/hands, a jade roller or a gua sha tool (see pictures).

Jade Roller

Gua Sha Tool

The practitioner may feel that some internal/external herbal support may be necessary. If so this may in tablet or powder form, or even a prepared cream to apply directly to the skin.

Results
Your skin will initially feel glowing and firmer with subtle differences being seen over the course of several sessions. It is recommended that a course of 6 sessions are given for the skin to start maintaining and showing improvements. After this, depending on the individual, more sessions may be needed to continue and maintain the results. Some people find that results can be maintained themselves with an appropriate lifestyle and skin care regime, requiring further sessions periodically or before special events such as weddings or TV appearances.

Prices

Each session lasts 1 hour and costs £40 (Initial consultation & treatment £50)
6 sessions can be bought in advance for £200 saving £50!