Facial Rejuvenation: Microneedling, Nanoneedling, and Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture

Facial Rejuvenation FAQ

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Frequently Asked Questions about Microneedling, Nanoneedling, and Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture

Are you considering a facial rejuvenation treatment to enhance your skin’s appearance?

Cosmetic facial acupuncture, nanoneedling, and microneedling are popular options that can help rejuvenate your skin.

Read on to find out the answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about facial rejuvenation treatments to help you make an informed decision.

What are the benefits of these treatments?

All three treatments offer a range of benefits, including:

  • Reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Improved skin tone and texture.
  • Softer and younger-looking skin with fewer signs of aging.
  • Improvement in the appearance of uneven skin tone (hyperpigmentation), acne scars, traumatic scars, and stretch marks.

How is nanoneedling or microneedling done?

The treatment involves using a specialized tool with either micro-needles (for microneedling) or micro-points (for nanoneedling).

Here’s a basic overview of the process:

A sterile cartridge containing micro-needles or micro-points is attached to the device.

If you’re getting microneedling, a light numbing cream may be applied to your skin to enhance comfort.

For added benefits, you will receive LED light therapy.

After the numbing cream (for microneedling) is removed, hyaluronic acid, stem cell serum, and marine biopeptide serums are applied to your skin.

The practitioner glides the tool across your skin at the appropriate depth, ensuring thorough coverage.
Your 75 minute treatment is concluded with a cold gua sha session, an aloe vera face mask, and application of hand curated facial oil.

What does it feel like?

The sensation during the treatment is often described as feeling like sandpaper moving across the skin. Some areas may be more sensitive than others, but the speed of the needle tip can be adjusted to make the treatment more comfortable. Don’t hesitate to communicate with your practitioner if you need any adjustments.

What is the downtime?

Immediately after the treatment, you may notice some redness on your skin. The duration of redness and downtime varies depending on the specific technique used and the number of passes performed. On average, patients experience redness for 2-4 days, but individual experiences can vary.

Make sure to follow aftercare instructions to care for your skin properly. It is important not to use any makeup, soap, or harsh chemicals on your face for a few days post treatment. Downtime is quite minimal, which makes this form of facial care even more ideal!

When will I see results?

Patients often notice an immediate glow to their skin after the treatment. With nanoneedling and microneedling, visible improvements continue to develop over several weeks, and results can keep getting better for months after each session. Generally, you will start to see changes in week 3 that will only improve further with each session.

How many treatments will I need?

Because cosmetic acupuncture is meant to be done before an event, you may need about 2 treatments the week before your big day. However, for microneedling and nanoneedling, It’s usually recommended for most patients to receive a series of treatments spaced out at 1-week (nanoneedling) or 4-week (microneedling) intervals. For individuals with deeper wrinkles or significant acne scars, a more extensive treatment plan may be necessary.

How does it work?

These treatments create controlled microtraumas in the skin through the use of needles or micro-points. This stimulates the body’s natural repair response and promotes the production of collagen. As a result, you get improved skin elasticity, reduced fine lines and wrinkles, and a more even complexion.

Which one should I choose?

Deciding between cosmetic facial acupuncture, nanoneedling, and microneedling depends on your preferences and goals.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture:

Cosmetic acupuncture, also known as facial acupuncture or acupuncture facelift, is a natural and non-invasive rejuvenation technique that involves the insertion of fine acupuncture needles into specific points on the face. T

his holistic approach aims to promote collagen production, improve blood circulation, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in a more youthful and radiant complexion. Can be done twice weekly and is the best method the day before an event for an immediate glow. CAN be done on pregnant patients.

Nanoneedling:

Nanoneedling is an advanced skincare treatment that creates microscopic channels in the skin to allow for optimal product absorption. This treatment stimulates the production of collagen and enhance the absorption of topical serums, promoting skin rejuvenation and improved texture. Nanoneedling can lead to a visible reduction in wrinkles and acne scars, improved hyperpigmentation from sun damage, smaller pore size, and tighter skin!

Nanoneedling is a gentler alternative to traditional microneedling and is suitable for various skin concerns. Can be done once weekly. Cannot be done on pregnant patients.

Microneedling:

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. These micro-injuries trigger the body’s natural healing process, stimulating collagen and elastin production, resulting improved skin texture, reduced scarring, and a more youthful appearance.

Microneedling is commonly used to treat acne scars, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. Can be done once every 4 weeks. Cannot be done on pregnant patients.

Note: Both microneedling and nanoneedling significantly increase the penetration of skincare products, with microneedling boosting it by 3000% and nanoneedling by 97%. This enhances the effectiveness of your skincare routine, ensuring your skin receives maximum benefits from your products.

How do I prepare for my treatment?

In preparation for your upcoming cosmetic acupuncture session, it’s important to minimize sun exposure as sunburned or tanned skin can heighten the potential for complications. Additionally, refrain from using products that contain retinoids (retinol), alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and other potent exfoliants for at least one week prior to the procedure.

Refrain from seeking other skin treatments such as chemical peels, facial hair waxing, laser therapy, or intense pulsed light (IPL) within two weeks of your scheduled microneedling appointment. If you’re currently on blood-thinning medications or supplements, please consult with your healthcare provider to discuss the temporary discontinuation of these agents to mitigate the risk of excessive bleeding or bruising during the cosmetic acupuncture procedure.

Lastly, please avoid alcohol for the 24 hours prior to your procedure.

Schedule a free 15-minute consultation today! 

This article is written by Smriti Shamapant, DACM, LAc, Dipl OM. She is a dedicated Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine at Lokahi Acupuncture, with a unique blend of expertise in facial rejuvenation, pain, and pediatric care. Feel free to reach her at smriti@lokahiacupuncture.com for assistance in choosing the right treatment to meet your unique needs.

Smriti Shamapant
San Jose Acupuncturist
Lokahi Acupuncture
408.279.9001
Follow us on Instagram
Make an Appointment

 

Facial Acupuncture Benefits

Facial Acupuncture Benefits

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Old Age Secrets in a New Age World

We live in a world where we encounter the standards set by the beauty industry at every turn , offering numerous invasive treatments to turn back the clock.

However, there’s a growing trend towards holistic and natural approaches to enhance one’s natural beauty and rejuvenate the skin. One such approach is facial acupuncture, deeply rooted in traditional Chinese medicine-and it’s making a comeback in today’s world!

Facial acupuncture presents an alternative that doesn’t require surgery or drastic measures. Let’s dive into the benefits of facial acupuncture, how it works, and the three distinct forms we offer: Cosmetic Acupuncture, Nanoneedling, and Microneedling.

Facial Acupuncture Benefits

Natural Anti-Aging:

Often referred to as “natural Botox,” facial acupuncture can effectively reduce fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production. Collagen is a vital protein that provides structure to the skin. As we age, collagen production decreases, leading to sagging skin and wrinkles. Through the use of fine needles into the skin, facial acupuncture prompts the body to produce more collagen. This results in firmer, smoother skin, which retains a youthful appearance.

Improved Skin Texture:

Elastin is another essential protein that maintains skin elasticity. The stimulation of blood flow and oxygen supply to the facial tissues through facial acupuncture promotes the production of these proteins, reducing puffiness and enhancing skin texture. This not only leads to a more radiant complexion but also helps to reverse the effects of aging by restoring skin’s natural elasticity.

Stress Reduction:

In addition to its cosmetic advantages, facial acupuncture’s roots in traditional acupuncture offer the added benefit of stress reduction. Stress is a major contributor to premature aging and skin issues. The precise insertion of needles at specific points on the face and body can alleviate stress and anxiety, contributing to an overall youthful appearance and improved well-being. Reduced stress levels can help prevent the formation of stress lines and wrinkles, leaving the skin looking more relaxed and youthful.

Enhanced Muscle Tone:

Facial acupuncture can target specific facial muscles to lift and tone, providing a non-surgical facelift effect. Muscles that sag with age can be revitalized through acupuncture. This natural approach enhances facial muscle tone, helping to reverse the effects of aging. It’s like a workout for the face, increasing circulation and rejuvenating facial muscles.

Improved Skin Vitality:

Many patients report experiencing a healthy glow and enhanced skin vitality after undergoing a course of facial acupuncture treatments. The holistic approach of this ancient technique fosters overall well-being that shines through in one’s complexion. Improved circulation and the body’s natural healing response combine to give the skin a refreshed, revitalized appearance.

But HOW Does Facial Acupuncture Work?

Facial acupuncture works wonders in promoting skin rejuvenation through a fascinating process. By delicately inserting fine acupuncture needles into specific points on the face, controlled microtrauma within the skin’s dermal layer are created. While it may seem counterintuitive, this minor “injury” triggers the body’s natural healing response, leading to a significant increase in collagen production – a crucial protein responsible for skin structure and firmness.

In addition to collagen stimulation, facial acupuncture enhances blood circulation within the treated areas. This improved circulation ensures a better supply of essential nutrients and oxygen to the skin, facilitating tissue repair, collagen synthesis, and the removal of waste products and toxins. Moreover, acupuncture is believed to influence the release of fibroblasts and growth factors, such as TGF-beta (transforming growth factor-beta), which play a vital role in collagen and elastin production.

Acupuncture plays a pivotal role in regulating inflammation, fostering an environment conducive to collagen formation and remodeling. Additionally, acupuncture’s influence extends to the nervous system and hormonal balance, contributing to collagen stimulation. Specific acupuncture points have the potential to stimulate the release of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides, potentially affecting tissue repair and regeneration, while also influencing hormone levels.

Types of Facial Acupuncture Treatments at Lokahi Acupuncture:

Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture:

A non-invasive, natural method involving fine needle insertion into specific facial points to boost collagen, enhance blood flow, reduce wrinkles, and achieve a youthful glow.

Nanoneedling:

A newer and less invasive approach, nanoneedling utilizes a textured surface to create microscopic channels in the skin, smoothing out skin tone and improving the absorption of skincare products.

Microneedling:

Also known as collagen induction therapy, microneedling employs fine needles to create micro-injuries that trigger the body’s natural wound healing process, promoting the production of collagen and elastin in fine lines and wrinkles.
Stay tuned for our upcoming blog post, where we’ll delve into each treatment, helping you discover the one that’s the perfect fit for your needs!

This article is written by Smriti Shamapant, DACM, LAc, Dipl OM. She is a dedicated Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine at Lokahi Acupuncture, with a unique blend of expertise in facial rejuvenation, pain, and pediatric care. Feel free to reach her at smriti@lokahiacupuncture.com for assistance in choosing the right treatment to meet your unique needs.

Smriti Shamapant
San Jose Acupuncturist
408.279.9001
Follow us on Instagram
Make an Appointment

Lokahi's New Line of Natural Skincare Products

Radiant Skin, Naturally: The Acupuncture Alchemy for Holistic Beauty

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Introducing Lokahi’s New Line of Natural Skincare Products

Your face is a canvas that tells the unique story of your life and experiences. Taking care of it in a way that aligns with your values of wellness is essential to feeling confident in the skin you are in.

At Lokahi Acupuncture, we embrace the natural journey of aging and the desire to nurture your mind, body, and spirit through holistic and natural means. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce our range of upcoming skincare products, each meticulously crafted to cater to distinct needs and amplify your innate beauty. Discover the transformative power of nature for healthier, more vibrant skin and holistic well-being!

Did you know that the order of your skincare routine can significantly impact product effectiveness? Using products incorrectly can impact their efficacy and can cost you hundreds of dollars without achieving the desired results.

Continue reading to the end to discover our easy 7-step morning and evening skincare routine to ensure you get the best out of your products!

Meet Our Newest Skincare Offerings:

Swiss Apple Stem Cell Serum

Discover the power of Swiss Apple Stem Cells, sourced from the rare Uttwiler Spätlauber apple, prized for its remarkable ability to combat signs of aging thanks to long-living tissue stem cells and a distinctive blend of metabolites and epigenetic factors. This serum is a wonderful option for combating the signs of aging and achieving a radiant and youthful complexion.

This product is cruelty-free & formulated without parabens, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, animal by-products and phthalates.

Benefits:

  • Elevates human stem cell production
  • Diminishes wrinkles
  • Promotes skin cell regeneration
  • Shields skin cells from stress
  • Acts as a potent free radical scavenger

Directions: Apply this product as the initial step in your skincare routine, immediately after cleansing your face.

Marine Bio-Peptides Serum

Our Marine Bio-Peptides Serum combines the richness of anti-aging botanicals with peptide-rich seaweed, enriched with Omega 9 nutrients. This potent formula actively diminishes melanin synthesis, inhibits tyrosinase, and blocks matrix metalloproteinases, making it an ideal choice for individuals dealing with dark spots or an uneven skin tone. These fish-derived peptides are a versatile solution for those looking to achieve a more youthful and tighter complexion with a smoother skin texture.

This product is cruelty-free & formulated without parabens, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, animal by-products and phthalates.

Benefits:

  • Improves skin elasticity and firmness
  • Provides antioxidant and antimicrobial properties
  • Reduces hyperpigmentation
  • Boosts collagen production
  • Reduces inflammation

Directions: Apply this product as the initial step in your skincare routine, immediately after cleansing your face.

Rosehips Oil

Experience the gentle yet powerful properties of our Rosehips sealing oil to naturally illuminate your complexion. This multifunctional oil simultaneously serves as a mild astringent while also serves to deeply hydrate. Versatile and suitable for a wide range of skin types, this oil offers relief to even the most sensitive skin.

This product is formulated without parabens, sulfate, synthetic dyes, artificial fragrances, and phthalates.

Benefits:

  • Promotes skin regeneration
  • Aids in Anti-aging
  • Enhances elasticity and collagen production
  • Delivers deep hydration
  • Rich in vitamin A

Directions: Apply face oil at the very end of your evening skincare routine to seal in the benefits of your products and maintain moisture

Geranium Sandalwood Oil

The Geranium Sandalwood oil offers a powerful blend to address various skincare needs. Whether you’re dealing with acne or want to maintain skin health, this serum has you covered. This oil combines the strengths of geranium and sandalwood, delivering a powerful blend that can combat dryness while countering the formation of free radicals.

This product is formulated without parabens, sulfate, synthetic dyes, artificial fragrances, and phthalates.

Benefits:

  • Antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiseptic properties
  • Combats acne and soothes skin irritation
  • Enhances skin cell vitality and elasticity

Directions: Apply face oil at the very end of your evening skincare routine to seal in the benefits of your products and maintain moisture

Co Q10 Under Eye Cream

Experience a refreshed and radiant look with our Co Q10 Under Eye Cream. It goes beyond hydration to actively address common under-eye concerns, ensuring your gaze is youthful and revitalized. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supports eye health by providing antioxidant protection against oxidative damage and  providing an energy boost to the delicate skin around the eyes. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help soothe and calm the eye area, addressing concerns like puffiness and dark circles.

This product is cruelty-free & formulated without parabens, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, animal by-products and phthalates.

Benefits:

  • Targets fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles
  • Provides age-defying Coenzyme Q10
  • Brightens the under-eye area
  • Firms and rejuvenates

Directions: Gently pat this cream beneath your eyes immediately after your serum has fully absorbed, and then follow with your preferred day or night cream, sealing in the benefits with a nourishing face oil.

Retinol Anti-Aging Cream

Our Retinol Anti-Aging Cream unveils the magic of retinol, a potent form of Vitamin A. Retinol boosts skin renewal by accelerating cell turnover, stimulating collagen for firmness and preventing dead skin cell buildup. Use it to achieve a radiant and more youthful appearance while addressing common signs of aging.

This product is cruelty-free & formulated without parabens, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, animal by-products and phthalates.

Benefits:

  • Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
  • Accelerates skin cell turnover
  • Improves skin texture

Directions: Use a pea-sized amount of retinol cream after your serums have fully absorbed. Apply it evenly, avoiding the eye area.

Reishi Mushroom Antioxidant Day Cream

Begin your day with our Reishi Mushroom Antioxidant Day Cream, your shield against daily environmental stressors. Enriched with the natural potency of Reishi mushrooms, this cream harnesses their bioactive triterpenes, polysaccharides, and antioxidants to soothe inflammation, lock in moisture, and defend against free radicals, promoting skin health and a youthful glow.

This product is cruelty-free & formulated without parabens, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, animal by-products and phthalates.

Benefits:

  • Offers antioxidant protection
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Promotes collagen production
  • Shields skin from free radicals

Directions: Apply this cream in your morning facial skincare routine after applying your serums, then follow with a hydrating face oil for a comprehensive regimen.

Yucca and Comfrey Calming Night Cream

Unwind at the end of your day with our Yucca and Comfrey Calming Night Cream, designed to rejuvenate your skin while you sleep. Yucca contains saponins, a natural compound that gently cleanses and hydrates, removing impurities, while retaining moisture. Comfrey contains allantoin, a natural compound that stimulates cell growth for wound healing, reducing inflammation and enhancing skin texture, ultimately reducing fine lines and wrinkles.

This product is cruelty-free & formulated without parabens, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, animal by-products and phthalates.

Benefits:

  • Soothes and nourishes the skin
  • Reduces redness and irritation
  • Works harmoniously with your skin’s natural rejuvenation process

Directions: Apply this cream in your evening facial skincare routine after applying your serums, then follow with a hydrating face oil for a comprehensive regimen.

Follow These 7 Simple Steps to Maximize the Benefits of Your Skincare!

Morning Skincare Routine:

Cleansing: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and impurities.

Toner: Apply toner to balance your skin’s pH and prepare it for the next steps.

Serum: If you use a targeted serum for specific concerns, apply it with your fingertips, gently patting it into the skin.

Retinol (If Applicable): If using retinol during the day, follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen; otherwise, reserve retinol for nighttime use. Apply a pea sized amount evenly to the entire face, avoiding the eye area.

Eye Cream: Gently dab eye cream around the eye area.

Day Cream: Use moisturizing day cream to protect your skin from environmental stressors and reduce potential dryness or irritation.

Sunscreen: Finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen to safeguard your skin from UV damage.

Evening Skincare Routine:

Cleansing: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, dirt, and impurities.

Toner: Apply toner to balance your skin’s pH and prepare it for the next steps.

Serum: If you use a targeted serum for specific concerns, apply it with your fingertips, gently patting it into the skin.

Retinol: Apply a pea sized amount evenly to the entire face, avoiding the eye area.

Eye Cream: Gently dab eye cream around the eye area.

Night Cream: Apply moisturizing night cream to repair and replenish skin while you sleep.

Face Oil: Use a few drops and apply a thin, even layer to lock in all the benefits of your skincare regimen.

These routines will help you achieve and maintain healthy, glowing skin.

This article is written by Smriti Shamapant, DACM, LAc, Dipl OM. She is a dedicated Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine at Lokahi Acupuncture, with a unique blend of expertise in facial rejuvenation, pain, and pediatric care. Feel free to reach her at smriti@lokahiacupuncture.com for assistance in choosing the right product to meet your unique needs.

Lokahi Acupuncture
408.279.9001
Follow us on Instagram
Make an Appointment