What is Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture?
Cosmetic Acupuncture is a painless, non-surgical method of reducing the signs of the aging process. Cosmetic, Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture and Facial Acupuncture can sometimes be referred to as an Acupuncture Facelift, it is more than just a cosmetic procedure. It is a rejuvenation and revitalization process designed to help the whole body look and feel younger.
The Cosmetic Acupuncture treatment is based on the principles of Oriental Medicine and involves the insertion of hair-thin needles into particular areas of the face, ears, neck, hands, trunk, and legs along channels or meridians of energy called Qi. Specific points are chosen to manipulate the movement of energy in the body according to the individual's needs. Thousands of years ago the Chinese discovered that many meridians either begin or end on the face while some have internal branches that go to the face. Thus, practitioners of Cosmetic Acupuncture, Facial Rejuvenation and Mei Zen Acupuncture know how to specifically effect the face while simultaneously treating the underlying factors that contribute to the aging process.
Facial Acupuncture may erase as many as five to fifteen years from the face, with results apparent after just a few treatments. Fine lines may be entirely eliminated and deeper wrinkles diminished. Bags under the eyes can be reduced, jowls firmed, puffiness eliminated, droopy eyelids lifted and double chins minimized. Other likely results include: moisturizing of the skin with increased local circulation of blood and lymph to the face; increased collagen production, muscle tone, and dermal contraction; tightening of the pores; brightening of the eyes; improving of hormonal balance to help acne; reduction of stress evident in the face – bringing out the innate Beauty and Radiance of an individual.
*Proof of Vaccination Required for All Cosmetic Procedures: Cosmetic Acupuncture and Micro-needling*
The Cosmetic Acupuncture treatment is based on the principles of Oriental Medicine and involves the insertion of hair-thin needles into particular areas of the face, ears, neck, hands, trunk, and legs along channels or meridians of energy called Qi. Specific points are chosen to manipulate the movement of energy in the body according to the individual's needs. Thousands of years ago the Chinese discovered that many meridians either begin or end on the face while some have internal branches that go to the face. Thus, practitioners of Cosmetic Acupuncture, Facial Rejuvenation and Mei Zen Acupuncture know how to specifically effect the face while simultaneously treating the underlying factors that contribute to the aging process.
Facial Acupuncture may erase as many as five to fifteen years from the face, with results apparent after just a few treatments. Fine lines may be entirely eliminated and deeper wrinkles diminished. Bags under the eyes can be reduced, jowls firmed, puffiness eliminated, droopy eyelids lifted and double chins minimized. Other likely results include: moisturizing of the skin with increased local circulation of blood and lymph to the face; increased collagen production, muscle tone, and dermal contraction; tightening of the pores; brightening of the eyes; improving of hormonal balance to help acne; reduction of stress evident in the face – bringing out the innate Beauty and Radiance of an individual.
*Proof of Vaccination Required for All Cosmetic Procedures: Cosmetic Acupuncture and Micro-needling*
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How Does Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture Work?
Aside from the TCM perspectives on Facial Acupuncture, there is a firm scientific process that contributes to the efficacy of the procedure, involving the stimulation of fibroblast cells to produce collagen, elastin and other natural by-products which enhance the appearance of the skin. Facial acupuncture works on a multitude of levels, addressing the whole body and person is the #1 priority as this contributes to eliminating the core causes of the appearance of premature aging. It also addresses the musculature of the face - helping some muscles to relax while stimulating others to engage which helps to soften some wrinkles and also lift sagging skin. Overall the treatment addresses the underlying constitution and health of the patient which results in improved blood flow, lymphatic drainage, release of stress, improved sleep and digestion and relieves pain - all of which play a crucial role in how our faces appear on the outside. Cosmetic facial acupuncture is also minimally invasive and this helps us preserve the dermal papillae layer of the skin - meaning it's a great treatment for long term that won't damage the skin structure.
Read more about the how and why HERE.
Check out this video for more information!
Read more about the how and why HERE.
Check out this video for more information!
Dr. Kim's Integrative Cosmetic Acupuncture Featured in the Media
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Pretty Privilege, The Dark Side of Beauty and the Art of Aging Gracefully, Women's Health Interactive, November 2019, Read the full article by Alison Huff HERE
11 Vitamins, Minerals and More for Healthy and Radiant Skin, Organic Authority, August 13, 2019
Read the full article by Emily Monaco HERE
What Can Acupuncture Do For Your Skin?, Orange Twist, July 2019
Read the full article by Katie Smith HERE
How To Naturally Boost Energy Without Faceplanting Into Your Coffee, 'O' The Oprah Magazine, 6/24/2019
Read the full post with expert tips including Dr. Kim's by Samantha Lefave HERE
This Facial Massage Might Be Just What You Need To Look 10 Years Younger, InStyle, May 21, 2019
Read the full article by Caroline Shannon-Karasik HERE
Wild Beauty: What is Facial Acupuncture and Cupping?, Feature post by June Johnson, May 20, 2019
Read the full post HERE | Watch the video HERE!
Cosmetic and Intuitive Acupuncture Interview, All Business Media FM, Jan, 2018
Listen HERE
'On Pins and Needles: SF Weekly Tries Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture', SF Weekly: 2015
Read the full text by Jonathan Ramos HERE
'Space for Lucky Moms', Marina Times, 2014
Read the full text by John Zipperer HERE
'Acupuncture in SF: A Beginner's Guide', 7x7 Magazine, 2013
Read the full article by Mary Polizotti HERE
11 Vitamins, Minerals and More for Healthy and Radiant Skin, Organic Authority, August 13, 2019
Read the full article by Emily Monaco HERE
What Can Acupuncture Do For Your Skin?, Orange Twist, July 2019
Read the full article by Katie Smith HERE
How To Naturally Boost Energy Without Faceplanting Into Your Coffee, 'O' The Oprah Magazine, 6/24/2019
Read the full post with expert tips including Dr. Kim's by Samantha Lefave HERE
This Facial Massage Might Be Just What You Need To Look 10 Years Younger, InStyle, May 21, 2019
Read the full article by Caroline Shannon-Karasik HERE
Wild Beauty: What is Facial Acupuncture and Cupping?, Feature post by June Johnson, May 20, 2019
Read the full post HERE | Watch the video HERE!
Cosmetic and Intuitive Acupuncture Interview, All Business Media FM, Jan, 2018
Listen HERE
'On Pins and Needles: SF Weekly Tries Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture', SF Weekly: 2015
Read the full text by Jonathan Ramos HERE
'Space for Lucky Moms', Marina Times, 2014
Read the full text by John Zipperer HERE
'Acupuncture in SF: A Beginner's Guide', 7x7 Magazine, 2013
Read the full article by Mary Polizotti HERE
Dr. Kim's Published Articles on Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture
Blocks to Beauty: Screening and Evaluation for Cosmetic Acupuncture Patients, Acupuncture Today
Click HERE for the full text, October 2019
Acupuncture, Brainwaves and the Fountain of Youth?, Acupuncture Today, May 2019
Click HERE for the full text
The Science Behind the Efficacy of Cosmetic Acupuncture, Acupuncture Today, September 2018
Click HERE to read the full text
The Importance of the Shen in Cosmetic Acupuncture - Edited Version, Acupuncture Today, May 2018
Click HERE for the full text
Click HERE for the full text, October 2019
Acupuncture, Brainwaves and the Fountain of Youth?, Acupuncture Today, May 2019
Click HERE for the full text
The Science Behind the Efficacy of Cosmetic Acupuncture, Acupuncture Today, September 2018
Click HERE to read the full text
The Importance of the Shen in Cosmetic Acupuncture - Edited Version, Acupuncture Today, May 2018
Click HERE for the full text
Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture Before & After Photos
Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture Before & After Photos - Crow's Feet and Under Eye Dark Circles and Puffiness
Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture Before & After Photos - Eye Lift
Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture Before & After Photos - Furrow '11' Lines and Forehead Wrinkles
Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture Before & After Photos - Jowls, Nasolabial Groove, Lip Wrinkle & Plumping and Neck Wrinkle & Sagging Treatment
Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture Before & After Photos - Rosacea, Acne and Skin Retexturing Treatment
Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture Before & After Bell's Palsy Facial Paralysis
Before & After 4 Treatments for Bell's Palsy
One of the only effective treatments from Bell's Palsy is acupuncture, with the combination of traditional Bell's Palsy treatment methods and Facial Rejuvenation techniques extraordinary results are achieved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Course of Treatment?
The recommended course of treatment (for the longest lasting and most dramatic effect) consists of an initial 10 weekly treatments. You can expect an initial visit with a detailed intake and following treatment, treatments last roughly 90 minutes. You will notice an effect after the first treatment and the weekly treatments help to solidify this effect and enhance it over the treatment period (in the case you do not, it may be an indication that Cosmetic Acupuncture may not be a suitable treatment for you, and we can discuss this in detail if it is the case.) The effects become most noticeable and lasting on or about the seventh session. Each person responds differently, depending on his or her condition and lifestyle prior to treatment.
Following the initial course of treatment, maintenance sessions can prolong the results for three to five years. We like to think of Cosmetic Acupuncture in the same way we think of hair maintenance or nail care - to keep the results and slow the visible effects of aging, it's very important to keep to a regular schedule of treatment. Cosmetic Acupuncture is one of the very few, non-invasive and effective methods to take control of the visible effects of aging, and routine treatment is essential to the life of the results.
Following the initial course of treatment, maintenance sessions can prolong the results for three to five years. We like to think of Cosmetic Acupuncture in the same way we think of hair maintenance or nail care - to keep the results and slow the visible effects of aging, it's very important to keep to a regular schedule of treatment. Cosmetic Acupuncture is one of the very few, non-invasive and effective methods to take control of the visible effects of aging, and routine treatment is essential to the life of the results.
What does the Treatment include?
Every Facial Acupuncture treatment begins like any regular acupuncture session. On your first session Kim will go through a detailed intake of your health history and any medical problems you may be experiencing currently, then she will go over the cosmetic treatment and address your target areas and expectations.
Each Cosmetic Acupuncture treatment includes:
-Full body acupuncture to treat any underlying or concurrent health issues or tendencies
-Facial & Scalp acupuncture targeted to the areas you specify or your general constitution
-30 Minute Celluma LED Light Therapy
-Your choice of a Mini Micro-Current Session, Facial Cupping or Facial Gua Sha treatment
This treatment is our 'gold' standard for Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture, it's anti-aging properties are deep and vast and produce a lovely result you will notice and feel! It's also great for patients with melasma, rosacea, facial puffiness and paralysis.
Each Cosmetic Acupuncture treatment includes:
-Full body acupuncture to treat any underlying or concurrent health issues or tendencies
-Facial & Scalp acupuncture targeted to the areas you specify or your general constitution
-30 Minute Celluma LED Light Therapy
-Your choice of a Mini Micro-Current Session, Facial Cupping or Facial Gua Sha treatment
This treatment is our 'gold' standard for Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture, it's anti-aging properties are deep and vast and produce a lovely result you will notice and feel! It's also great for patients with melasma, rosacea, facial puffiness and paralysis.
When will I see results?
Results are usually apparent right after one session! Dr. Kim makes sure to have you look in the mirror before and after your first session so you can see the changes yourself. For some results are subtle and for others significant. The results from your first session are indicative to how your more permanent results will be after a series of sessions.
Immediate results will last 7-10 days then start to fade away, this is why the course of treatment as mentioned above is recommended for the best and longest lasting results.
Immediate results will last 7-10 days then start to fade away, this is why the course of treatment as mentioned above is recommended for the best and longest lasting results.
When is a good age to get this treatment?
We have patients of a wide age range who come for Cosmetic Acupuncture. It is a great treatment for people who have issues they would like to 'correct' and for those who just want to take extra steps to slow down the signs of aging as a preventative measure.
Younger patients tend to see less dramatic results but the results will generally last longer because of the youthful integrity of the cells and collagen in the skin.
Older clients will often see dramatic results but need to be more diligent about maintenance to keep their results lasting.
Younger patients tend to see less dramatic results but the results will generally last longer because of the youthful integrity of the cells and collagen in the skin.
Older clients will often see dramatic results but need to be more diligent about maintenance to keep their results lasting.
Will it hurt? How many needles are used?
The short and honest answer to this question is: yes, it will likely hurt, but generally only a small amount. Everyone's body responds differently to acupuncture and needling, some patients find the process relaxing and fall asleep DURING needling, others have a more difficult time. Dr. Kim does her best to utilize a 'pain-free' Japanese needling technique and also insert needles quickly, all of which helps to minimize discomfort. Once the needles are placed, they are generally completely painless.
The amount of needles used in a treatment depends from patient to patient and what their concerns and desires are. For some it may be minimal, others may be more.
The amount of needles used in a treatment depends from patient to patient and what their concerns and desires are. For some it may be minimal, others may be more.
Who is NOT a good candidate for Cosmetic Acupuncture?
In general MOST people are great candidates for Cosmetic Acupuncture, but there are some exceptions:
-Recent Botox or Filler injections (within 4 weeks)
-Significant Botox / Filler use (this generally will make treatments seem less effective)
-Currently sick with a Cold / Flu
-Currently Pregnant
-Chronic Migraines (in many cases clients who suffer from migraines will improve with Cosmetic Acupuncture treatments, but sometimes this can trigger a migraine)
-Significant Health Issues / Diseases that are uncontrolled (other health issues need to be addressed FIRST in order to get the best results from Cosmetic Acupuncture)
-Clients who easily bruise / bleed / on blood thinners (the risk of bruising is increased with cosmetic acupuncture)
-Having a big event within 1 week of treatment (due to risk of bruising with treatments, it's best to do your final session at least one week prior to any big event you may have).
-Recent Botox or Filler injections (within 4 weeks)
-Significant Botox / Filler use (this generally will make treatments seem less effective)
-Currently sick with a Cold / Flu
-Currently Pregnant
-Chronic Migraines (in many cases clients who suffer from migraines will improve with Cosmetic Acupuncture treatments, but sometimes this can trigger a migraine)
-Significant Health Issues / Diseases that are uncontrolled (other health issues need to be addressed FIRST in order to get the best results from Cosmetic Acupuncture)
-Clients who easily bruise / bleed / on blood thinners (the risk of bruising is increased with cosmetic acupuncture)
-Having a big event within 1 week of treatment (due to risk of bruising with treatments, it's best to do your final session at least one week prior to any big event you may have).
What are your COVID-19 Safety Protocols?
To help keep our staff and patients safe we are requiring proof of vaccination for all cosmetic procedures, please be prepared to show your COVID-19 Proof of Vaccination on your first visit.
All patients are pre-screened for COVID-19 risks and exposure prior to each appointment
All patients are screened for fever upon arrival
Face masks are required at all times when in the office, for cosmetic procedures your face mask will be removed only prior to the facial needling portion of the treatment.
Sanitization between every patient is performed, along with easy access to hand sanitizer in office
All patients are pre-screened for COVID-19 risks and exposure prior to each appointment
All patients are screened for fever upon arrival
Face masks are required at all times when in the office, for cosmetic procedures your face mask will be removed only prior to the facial needling portion of the treatment.
Sanitization between every patient is performed, along with easy access to hand sanitizer in office
MicroNeedling - Skin Retexturing Treatment
Results one week after MicroNeedling Session.
Microneedling is a cornerstone technique that Acupuncturists have been using for thousands of years. Microneedling has been used for a variety of ailments by stimulating the cutaneous levels of the meridians of the body - it can help improve diseases and conditions of the body and also is very effective to rejuvenate the skin and hair follicles. Known as Microneedling, Dermal Needling, Skin Needling and Collagen Induction or Fusion Therapy, microneedling is a safe, effective way to improve the tone, texture and pigmentation of the skin, it can also be used to address fine lines, scar tissue and stretch marks. Downtime is minimal with this procedure, and due to the non-ablative method it preserves skin's natural essence instead of degrading it as many more aggressive medical procedures can do.
The most common at home technique is the Derma Roller which you can purchase and use at home in a lighter way to help the skin absorb your serums and moisturizer, plus the needling of the skin stimulates the immune response which means - collagen heads to the 'rescue' and as a by-product will give the skin a more plump appearance. We offer microneedling using a rotary machine with specific microneedling needle tips, and when needed will use other needle configurations to address scarring.
Benefits of Microneedling:
Our Treatments Include:
Course of Treatment:
It takes the body 30 days, more as we age, to fully complete the healing process after microneedling. We will see initial results within a week of the treatment but the skin underneath is still healing as the fibroblasts in the tissue produce collagen and elastin which helps plump and firm the skin. A recommended course of treatment is 4 sessions spaced one month apart over a period of 4 months. We offer discounts for packages of treatments purchased together.
Who is a good candidate?:
Anyone with aging or skin concerns who is looking for a well rounded treatment that has visible, lasting effects without toxic or harsh chemicals and minimal downtime is a great candidate. We see patients of any age over 18 years old, microneedling can replace 'preventative Botox' for wrinkles, as does Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture, it can also be used on more mature skin with great results.
Who is not a good candidate?
The most common at home technique is the Derma Roller which you can purchase and use at home in a lighter way to help the skin absorb your serums and moisturizer, plus the needling of the skin stimulates the immune response which means - collagen heads to the 'rescue' and as a by-product will give the skin a more plump appearance. We offer microneedling using a rotary machine with specific microneedling needle tips, and when needed will use other needle configurations to address scarring.
Benefits of Microneedling:
- Helps to resurface and smooth the skin appearance and texture
- Stimulates collagen and elastin production
- Does not damage the skin
- Minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and softens deeper lines
- Improves scarring - particularly acne scarring
- Hair restoration for hair loss due to aging, medications or alopecia
- Lightning of Hyper pigmentation
- Stretch mark reduction
- Results can be seen in as little as one week, with results becoming more apparent over 3-4 sessions done once per month
- Minimal downtime and minimal pain
Our Treatments Include:
- A thorough intake and evaluation to ensure the best course of treatment
- Option to add on body acupuncture at a discounted rate
- Medical Grade skincare products used during the treatment from Le Mieux Skincare and Acu Micro, harnessing the healing and anti-aging power of hyaluronic acid and Chinese herbal concentrates, all laboratory tested for quality.
- Soothing facial mask applied immediately post treatment to reduce inflammation, redness and irritation
- 30 Minute LED Phototherapy session post treatment to enhance anti-aging effects and decrease healing time
- Aftercare kit from LeMieux Cosmetics
Course of Treatment:
It takes the body 30 days, more as we age, to fully complete the healing process after microneedling. We will see initial results within a week of the treatment but the skin underneath is still healing as the fibroblasts in the tissue produce collagen and elastin which helps plump and firm the skin. A recommended course of treatment is 4 sessions spaced one month apart over a period of 4 months. We offer discounts for packages of treatments purchased together.
Who is a good candidate?:
Anyone with aging or skin concerns who is looking for a well rounded treatment that has visible, lasting effects without toxic or harsh chemicals and minimal downtime is a great candidate. We see patients of any age over 18 years old, microneedling can replace 'preventative Botox' for wrinkles, as does Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture, it can also be used on more mature skin with great results.
Who is not a good candidate?
- Patients with significant health issues that are not under control
- Patients undergoing significant medical treatments like chemo, radiation.
- Patients on high dose blood thinners
- Patients with problems healing, like uncontrolled type 1 Diabetics
- Patients who are prone to hyper / hypo pigmentation
- We cannot do microneedling on active acne, rosacea, psoriasis or eczema and other open wounds
Additional Natural Anti-Aging Treatments
Micro-Current Therapy
Microcurrent is a pleasant and refreshing way to help the body naturally fight and
decrease the effects of aging on the face. This treatment uses a microcurrent unit to stimulate the muscles of the face to help relax tight muscles, firm muscles that have lost their tone, improve skin tone and circulation and reduce or eliminate puffiness and fine lines. There is no risk of bruising and no recovery time after the treatment. An absolutely great alternative to other medical youth enhancing
treatments like Botox, Collagen or Restalyne injections!
Kim specializes in Cosmetic Acupuncture and offers this Micro-current “Quick Tone” as a standard component to all Cosmetic Acupuncture treatments. This makes for an even more effective and longer lasting treatment and is not a service combination you will find from most other Cosmetic Acupuncturists.
For those wary of needles Kim is offering Micro-current Only Cosmetic Treatments. A standard series of Micro-current Facial Rejuvenation consists of 12 weekly treatments (with the first 4 preferably twice a week). Kim is also offering a “Quick Tone” 25 minute treatment to supplement any regular acupuncture treatment.
Clients are also encouraged to come in for a Micro-current Facial Rejuvenation treatment as a preparation for any big event or occasion! With no bruising or recovery time it makes a great addition to any beauty regimen!
Kim specializes in Cosmetic Acupuncture and offers this Micro-current “Quick Tone” as a standard component to all Cosmetic Acupuncture treatments. This makes for an even more effective and longer lasting treatment and is not a service combination you will find from most other Cosmetic Acupuncturists.
For those wary of needles Kim is offering Micro-current Only Cosmetic Treatments. A standard series of Micro-current Facial Rejuvenation consists of 12 weekly treatments (with the first 4 preferably twice a week). Kim is also offering a “Quick Tone” 25 minute treatment to supplement any regular acupuncture treatment.
Clients are also encouraged to come in for a Micro-current Facial Rejuvenation treatment as a preparation for any big event or occasion! With no bruising or recovery time it makes a great addition to any beauty regimen!
Celluma LED PhotoTherapy
In addition to Acupuncture and Micro-Current, Kim's Cosmetic Acupuncture treatments also include a 30 minute Celluma LED Light Therapy Facial. LED Light therapy can be attuned to address wrinkles or acne and has had profound effects in research studies around the world. LED light therapy effects the skin on a cellular level - increasing ATP production and fighting bacteria which causes some kinds of acne. The results over continuous sessions are noticeable and long lasting. In conjunction with Cosmetic Acupuncture it makes Kim's treatments one-of-a-kind and unparalleled in the industry.
Celluma LED facials can be added on to any regular acupuncture treatment for an additional $45 or patients can opt for a Celluma treatment on it's own for $60.
We are also a distributor of the Celluma LED panels, if you would like to purchase your own for home use please contact us for pricing!
Celluma LED facials can be added on to any regular acupuncture treatment for an additional $45 or patients can opt for a Celluma treatment on it's own for $60.
We are also a distributor of the Celluma LED panels, if you would like to purchase your own for home use please contact us for pricing!
Ready to get Started?
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If you have more questions about Cosmetic Acupuncture please call us at 415-366-6708 for a brief phone consultation. We do not offer in-person consultations for Cosmetic Acupuncture as we feel most questions and concerns can be addressed with a phone call, and due to the internal and unique nature of each individual it is hard to determine and predict results by look alone.
The best way to see if Cosmetic Acupuncture is right for you is to come in for an initial treatment, you will know after one visit if you will see results and if you enjoy the treatment. |