Acne is a common skin condition that affects several individuals worldwide at some point in their lives. This skin condition is characterized by pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads, often causing not only discomfort but also emotional and psychological distress to those affected. Fortunately, it is a treatable and manageable condition.
While multiple conventional treatment options are available, including oral medications, topical creams, and laser therapy, an alternative holistic treatment known as acupuncture is gaining tremendous popularity. Acupuncture is an ancient TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) practice that helps stimulate your body’s healing mechanisms by targeting specific points (acupoints) on your face and body.
If you are struggling with persistent acne, facial acupuncture can help reduce inflammation, promote blood circulation, and regulate hormonal imbalances, leading to clearer, more flawless skin. Read to learn more about this TCM practice and how it can help manage acne and improve your skin health.
How Acupuncture Helps Improve Your Skin Health if You Have Acne
Acne can weigh on your mental health, strip away your confidence, and stain your social interactions. If you have acne, have tried other conventional treatments, and are not seeing improvement in your skin health, acupuncture could help. Ancient TCM practitioners understand that acupuncture is not just about your skin and could affect your life in many ways.
According to TCM, your skin is more of a window to inner health. Ancient TCM practitioners see acne as a symptom of imbalance, often tied to the stomach and lungs. Therefore, if you schedule an appointment with an acupuncturist, his/her main goal will be to address the underlying problem that causes the acne for lasting results. Here are different types of acne and skin conditions that acupuncture can help fix:
- Acne scars
- Acne rosacea
- Psoriasis
- Allergies
- Eczema
- Hormonal acne
Acupuncture therapy helps improve your skin condition and manage acne by:
Regulating Your Hormones
One of the key causes of acne among most people, especially adults, is hormonal imbalance. Hormonal imbalances could occur naturally due to menopause or menstruation, but other times they could also be due to diet and exposure to certain medications or environmental toxins. According to a 2018 study, acupuncture therapy can help reduce menstrual pain.
Another 2018 study confirmed that acupuncture helps reduce hormonal imbalance issues. By helping regulate your endocrine system, acupuncture therapy can offer you lasting results if you have hormonal acne.
While more research is needed to determine the efficacy of this TCM practice in regulating your endocrine system, the available evidence suggests that you can rely on this treatment if you have hormonal acne.
Acupuncture therapy can go a long way toward reducing acne outbreaks by regulating specific acupoints related to your endocrine system. Scheduling frequent acupuncture sessions with your acupuncturist can help reduce the hormonal imbalances that contribute to your acne flare-ups.
Reducing Inflammation and Acne Scars
The majority of skin problems, including acne and eczema, are often caused by inflammation. That is where acupuncture becomes helpful by stimulating your body to release anti-inflammatory chemicals that help reduce swelling, redness, and the overall appearance of your acne. After healing, acupuncture can also accelerate wound healing, helping reduce acne scars.
A 2019 study suggests acupuncture could help treat scars after tissue trauma, but further controlled studies are needed. Another 2015 study also suggested that acupuncture may stimulate collagen production and reduce inflammation. However, this procedure needs further investigation with a larger sample.
It is the same natural healing mechanism that allows acupuncture therapy to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. If you have acne scars, consulting an acupuncturist is a wise idea to restore your skin health and confidence.
Improving Your Blood Circulation
Proper blood circulation throughout your body is important for your skin's health. Fortunately, acupuncture can help improve blood flow to your skin, ensuring that oxygen and nutrients reach your skin cells to promote rejuvenation and faster healing.
Detoxifying Your Body
Another advantage of acupuncture is that it supports detoxification, helping your body’s energy and fluids move naturally and freely. Detoxification can help reduce acne outbreaks and improve your skin condition by supporting your lymphatic system and clearing toxins.
Once you begin acupuncture treatment for acne, you will likely notice great improvements in your skin texture and reduced breakouts within a few weeks. The more the energy balance within is restored through frequent acupuncture sessions, the healthier and clearer your skin will become.
Benefits of Acupuncture on Your Skin Health and Acne
Facial acupuncture provides several benefits, which you will notice after your first few sessions with your acupuncturist. Many patients often notice a decrease in the severity and frequency of breakouts along with an improvement in their overall skin tone and texture. In addition to treating your current acne, acupuncture can help correct underlying imbalances and prevent future flare-ups.
Fortunately, this holistic treatment procedure has fewer side effects than conventional treatment methods. Here are some of the key benefits of acupuncture for acne and your skin health:
It Has Minimal Downtime
You can return to your regular activities immediately after the acupuncture session, as your acupuncturist will use extremely thin needles. While you may experience a slight sensitivity and redness in the treated area of your skin, these side effects are temporary and will subside within a short time.
Therefore, if you are looking for an effective solution for your acne without the prolonged recovery time often associated with most skin treatments, acupuncture could be an excellent remedy.
The Results of the Treatment are Long-Lasting
Over time, the results of your acupuncture treatment can be long-lasting, especially when combined with a skin regimen and a healthy lifestyle. Regular acupuncture treatment can help maintain your body’s internal balance, reducing your chances of experiencing recurring acne breakouts.
In addition to clearer, more flawless skin, acupuncture therapy promotes both mental and physical health by affecting your entire body. If you are looking for a holistic remedy for acne with long-lasting results, acupuncture therapy could be what you are looking for.
It Has Anti-Aging Benefits
In addition to addressing acne, you can use acupuncture as a natural anti-aging remedy. Acupuncture therapy can enhance circulation and stimulate collagen production, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines in your face and giving you a youthful appearance.
It Can Balance the Production of Oil
Acupuncture therapy can help control sebum production if you have oily skin, reducing the excess oil that frequently causes breakouts and clogged pores.
What to Expect During Your Acupuncture Session for Acne and Better Skin Health
Every acupuncture session begins with a thorough consultation with your acupuncturist to identify your specific skin pattern, from stress-related flare-ups to hormonal acne. Before starting the treatment, your acupuncturist will discuss your health history and your specific skin issue to create your unique treatment plan.
Acupuncture is typically a relaxing treatment that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific areas of concern, including the neck, face, or body. Depending on the unique cause or trigger of your acne, your acupuncturist could target any of the following acupoints on your skin:
- Quchi (Ll11) — This acupoint is located on the outside of your elbow crease
- Hegu (Ll4) — This acupoint is situated at the base of your thumb and index finger
- Qihai (CV6) — The CV6, which is situated on the midline of your abdomen beneath the belly button, is another acupoint that the acupuncturist would target if you have acne
- Xuehai (SP10) — With your knee flexed, this acupoint is situated at two finger widths slightly above the inner corner of your kneecap
- Tianshu (ST25) — This acupoint is located approximately two finger widths away from the side of your belly button
- Taichong (LR3) — This acupoint is situated on your foot, approximately two finger widths slightly above your second toe
- Ashi — These are acupoints situated near your injury
Each of these points plays a vital role in improving your skin's health and addressing the underlying cause of your acne. The number of needles and the specific points your acupuncturist will focus on will depend on your unique needs. Each acupuncture session will last approximately thirty to sixty minutes, and you will notice improvement in your skin health within a few sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Acupuncture for Acne
Here are common questions that many people ask about acupuncture for acne:
- Can You Combine Acupuncture With Other Treatments?
Yes, you can combine acupuncture with other treatments to achieve the best and long-lasting results. Common treatments that could work well alongside acupuncture therapy include the following:
- Oral or topical dermatology treatments — These are medications or creams prescribed by a dermatologist to effectively manage and improve your acne and other skin health issues
- Herbal medicine — Herbal medicine helps manage and reduce acne and other skin health issues by utilizing natural ingredients that possess anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties to promote skin healing and balance
- Facial cupping — Facial cupping can enhance blood circulation, promote lymphatic drainage, and reduce inflammation, which may help alleviate acne and improve overall skin health
- Microneedling — Microneedling can help improve acne and other skin conditions by stimulating collagen production, enhancing skin texture, and promoting healing through controlled micro-injuries
- Acupressure — Acupressure can help treat acne and other skin conditions by stimulating specific pressure points to enhance blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote overall skin healing
- What Should I Do to Prepare for My Acupuncture Session?
While an acupuncture session does not require much preparation, it would help if you:
- Arrive at the acupuncturist clinic with clear skin
- Avoid harsh exfoliants or heavy makeup
- Eat a balanced meal and drink plenty of water
- Which Lifestyle Adjustments Should Accompany an Acupuncture Session for the Best Results?
You will notice improved results when you pair acupuncture with a regular skin care routine, daily exercise, and stress-management practices, including journaling or mindful meditation. Adequate sleep and staying hydrated can also significantly improve the effects of acupuncture. Your acupuncturist will give you home-based tips to help support your acne treatment journey.
- Can Acupuncture for Acne Result in Any Harmful Side Effects?
Generally speaking, acupuncture is a low-risk remedy for various types of acne and skin health issues. While it depends on a person, you may experience slight soreness and bruising at the site where the needle will pierce your skin. However, the side effects are mild and will subside in no time. If you have excessive bruising or pain after the procedure, you should consult with your doctor.
- Is Acupuncture a Safe Treatment for all Skin Types?
Yes, acupuncture therapy is a safe treatment for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin. The acupuncturist will personalize your treatment based on your unique skin condition and outbreak pattern.
- What is the Cost of Acupuncture Therapy for Acne?
The cost of an acupuncture session for your skin health and acne typically ranges from $75 to $150 per visit. However, how much you will pay for your acupuncture sessions could vary, depending on your unique treatment plan and the practitioner's experience and location.
- How do I find a Reliable Acupuncturist for Acne Treatment?
The first step in locating a trustworthy acupuncturist for acne treatment is to research local practitioners and verify their qualifications. Look for reviews and recommendations to ensure you choose someone experienced and trustworthy. Also, you should remember to do the following:
- Ask for referrals from friends, family, or healthcare providers
- Check online directories and professional associations for licensed acupuncturists
- Read patient reviews and testimonials to gauge their effectiveness
- Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific skin concerns and treatment approach
- Ensure the acupuncturist uses sterile, single-use needles and follows safety protocols
Find a Credible Acupuncturist Near Me
Acupuncture therapy is an ancient TCM practice that can offer you several benefits if you have acne, acne scars, or any other skin condition that affects your beauty and confidence. If you or a loved one is struggling with acne or just wants to improve the health of your skin, our acupuncturist at the Art of Chinese Healing can help provide you with a natural and effective solution.
We invite you to call our experienced acupuncturist at 310-405-1610 to book your initial obligation-free consultation today, wherever you are in Los Angeles.