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Explainer / What is cosmetic acupuncture – and is it better than Botox? Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, the non-invasive treatment is a natural alternative to fillers, promoting anti-ageing and wellness

STORYCarolina Malis
Cosmetic acupuncture is gaining popularity as people turn to a gentler and more holistic approach towards anti-ageing. Photo: Getty Images
Cosmetic acupuncture is gaining popularity as people turn to a gentler and more holistic approach towards anti-ageing. Photo: Getty Images
Beauty

  • Cosmetic acupuncture is a gentler, more holistic approach that aligns with the growing desire for natural, sustainable beauty solutions, without the risks and side effects of synthetic injectables
  • Rooted in TCM, the process involves ultrafine needles inserted at key points along the face, harnessing the body’s ‘chi’ to promote blood circulation and stimulate collagen production

In the endless pursuit of the fountain of youth, millions have ventured into dermatologists’ offices and medical spas for expensive creams, invasive procedures and the latest technological trends. But amid the hype and high prices, many are now turning to a gentler, more holistic approach rooted in ancient wisdom.
Cosmetic acupuncture, a practice borrowed from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is gaining popularity as a natural alternative to Botox and fillers. This non-invasive treatment focuses on harnessing the body’s own energy to stimulate healing and rejuvenation, promising smoother skin, tighter pores and a healthier, more radiant glow – all without the risks and side effects of synthetic injectables.
Today, more people are looking for natural and sustainable beauty solutions. Photo: Natural Route Health
Today, more people are looking for natural and sustainable beauty solutions. Photo: Natural Route Health
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With a few exceptions, the human desire to preserve youthfulness and beauty is as old as humanity itself. From the milk baths of ancient Egypt to the bloodletting of the Middle Ages and the radiation treatments of the early 20th century, history is littered with the lengths people will go to retain their youthful appearance.

But as technology and techniques have advanced, so have the risks and complications. Botox, fillers and laser therapies may give temporary results, but they often come with a hefty price tag – both financially and to the body’s natural processes. This has sparked a renewed interest in alternative, more natural methods that deliver lasting benefits without compromising our well-being.

What is cosmetic acupuncture?

Cosmetic acupuncture treatment helps not only in rejuvenating the face, but also overall wellness. Photo: Dr Krystal Couture
Cosmetic acupuncture treatment helps not only in rejuvenating the face, but also overall wellness. Photo: Dr Krystal Couture
Enter cosmetic acupuncture, an ancient practice that taps into the body’s own healing energies to promote youthful rejuvenation. According to Jamie Bacharach, head of practice and medical acupuncturist at Acupuncture Jerusalem, the procedure uses acupuncture principles derived from TCM to rejuvenate the face, leading to cosmetic improvements. “It involves needling particular points on the body to promote blood circulation, stimulate production of collagen and reduce wrinkles, along with a variety of other cosmetic benefits,” she explains.

At its core, acupuncture is founded on the principle that the body is a finely tuned machine with a network of roads, or “meridians” that help energy – known as “chi” – flow smoothly throughout. TCM suggests that when these roads get clogged, it’s like traffic gridlock. “When this flow is disrupted, it can lead to illness and health problems. Inserting acupuncture needles on particular points can manipulate the flow of chi, helping to achieve a balance that remedies health problems and, in the case of cosmetic acupuncture, leads to a more youthful and vibrant look,” Bacharach says.

Ultrafine needles are inserted at key points along the face. Photo: Getty Images
Ultrafine needles are inserted at key points along the face. Photo: Getty Images

The practice involves inserting ultrafine needles at key points along the face and body to help get the energy flowing again, boost blood circulation, clear out lymphatic waste and kick collagen production into high gear. While the treatment’s primary allure lies in reducing the visible signs of ageing, the focus has been shifted to overall wellness. People who get cosmetic acupuncture often report a range of improvements, from a more even skin tone to reduced puffiness and a noticeable firmness in their facial contours.

How does it work?