ZENMED Cosmetics

For centuries Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners have done the technique of inserting filiform needles into specific spots on the body and then manipulating those needles. Many of us understand acupuncture, as it is called, to be the practice of balancing the body’s qi, or energy, which can be beneficial in relieving nausea and pain among other things.

When it comes to skin fitness what many of use don’t know is that acupuncture can work wonders. Commonly, acupuncture is used to treat psoriasis, dry skin, eczema, and acne. Practitioners, in most cases, will recommend a combination of herbal supplements and diet to complement the acupuncture treatments.

For acne specifically, this combination of treatments, many claim, can be more effective than benzoyl peroxide and antibiotics. In treating acne the acupuncture needles are usually placed at key points on the body that are known to be related to the skin condition, but they can be placed on or near an actual pimple.

In the practice there are hundreds of points identified on the body, many of which are associated with skin problems. For instance, by focusing on points that promote cooling of the organs, both certain types of eczema and acne are treated. A consequence of unequal energies in the body is a skin condition.

There are many ongoing studies intending to prove or disprove acupuncture’s efficacy and many scientists cannot agree on how effective it really is. Regardless of the scientific community’s feelings, more than 10 million Americans seek acupuncture treatment each year and most claim significant results.

Acupuncture is common enough that most skin spas are staffed with a provider or can easily recommend a qualified practitioner. The state requires those that practice to be licensed.

For the best results, like most skin care treatments, acupuncture must be done in a series. Plan to receive treatment two to three times a week in the beginning with less frequent visits once your skin’s fitness has improved.