Skin

100 needles for younger looking skin? Read my thoughts on when I had the Facial Acupuncture treatment.

I find myself in the last year of my 30’s with the big 4-0 only 10 months away. I had been considering whether or not having botox could be an option in the next few years. However the idea of going through with it scares the life out of me. So when Emily from Embody Nantwich (CTC Healthcare) contacted me about their Anti-Ageing Facial treatment through acupuncture, this immediately got my attention.

What is it and what are the benefits? Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment. Its more commonly known for backaches, migraines and in in some cases helps with fertility problems. The anti-ageing facial involves inserting fine needles through the face in order to help rebuild the skins collagen which gives the face a healthier look. As we grow older our bodies produce less collagen, the skin becomes thinner and drier and develops sags and wrinkles. Quoted from CTC Healthcare… “this type of treatment prevents and future proofs the skin from the inner layers outwards (anti ageing). Overtime there is a greater production of elastin and collagen in the skin leading healthier, younger looking skin and a rejuvenating appearance”.

What happened? A super friendly guy called Adam took me into a treatment room and explained the procedure, step by step. His approach and mannerisms were calming which instantly put me at ease and I knew I was in safe hands. Up to that point I had not given much thought to having multiple needles put in my face until Adam had presumed I’d already experienced acupuncture. So when I explained I’d never done this before; we both couldn’t help but laugh when he said there’s nothing like jumping in head first. He went on to ask about my current health which included my family history and finished off by completing a questionnaire and then we were ready to start.

Step 1: Needles were placed in my hands as well as the top of my feet. This was to provide pain relief throughout the treatment

Step 2: Depending on your package this will determine the amount of needles you have. I was lucky enough to experience the platinum treatment, this meant there was approx. 100 needles carefully placed in my scalp, forehead, chin, cheeks and around my eyes.

Step 3: No sooner were they all in, it was time for the needles to come out. He removed them slowly and with care. This process took longer than the first stage but at no point did either steps cause me any discomfort or pain.

Step 4: The platinum package included a rejuvenating treatment which not only targeted more areas on the face but involved a face mask too. Once on my face, Adam took a Jade roller over the top of the mask (this is a Chinese massage tool which helps with circulation). This helps the serum to absorb deeper into the skin.

How did my face feel after the treatment?: At that point I had not looked in the mirror or seen the needles in my face. So this was my first opportunity to see what had happened. I won’t lie, I was expecting multiple dots of blood all over my face. Thank goodness I was pleasantly surprised. I had not incurred any marks whatsoever. They clearly stipulate at the beginning there could be minor side effects; such as bruising or aching, however I didn’t and still haven’t experienced any of these.

Whilst there’s loads of information and research, here’s some key differences between Botox & Facial Acupuncture that really helped me…

  • Botox
  • Treatments are cheaper than facial acupuncture but…
  • You are freezing muscles which means you are not moving them
  • Over time muscles lose strength and volume
  • After several treatments muscles become so weak the botox no longer works and this may leave you wanting a facelift
  • Facial Acupuncture
  • Natural alternative to anti-ageing treatments
  • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Provides firmer and stronger skin
  • Treats the surface and regenerates skin
  • Improves elastin and collagen rejuvenation
  • Brightens dull skin
  • Tightens and tones skin

Would I have facial acupuncture again? Absolutely! Not only did I find the whole experience fascinating and relaxing. I’m happier about this alternative approach to healthier skin. It’s been 48 hours since I had this done and my face, overall, feels lifted and slightly tighter. Those telling ageing areas such as crows feet, lines in forehead have also improved. And although I know it’s only been one session I absolutely believe this would be an even better result after their recommended 5 sessions.

If you are still not convinced, then you only need look at the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Aniston, Madonna and Angelina Jolie who are all said to be fans. While Millie Mackintosh, Kim Kardashian and Victoria’s Secret model Bar Refaeli have proudly posted ‘needle selfies’ on social media.

CTC Healthcare have 5 clinics across Cheshire & Staffordshire (Nantwich, Crewe, Congleton, Stafford & Stoke). My treatment was at the Embody @ CTC Healthcare Nantwich clinic, where they have a variety of packages for Facial Acupuncture. They also offer Pilates and Yoga classes. I’m really looking forward to returning to the clinic for more facial acupuncture treatments. For more information give them a call on 01270 361363.

Big Love, Nic x