With the ongoing rise in interest of clean beauty skin care and more holistic treatments, we recently asked the question: Acupuncture or Botox?

As we age, we wrinkle. It’s only natural. And, while some of us in our 40s embrace aging like a fine wine, others of us want to preserve the smooth skin we didn’t have to work for in our 20s.

If you’re looking to be wrinkle free, but want an alternative to cosmetic procedures like Botox and other methods, explore acupuncture-based facial rejuvenation.

I had the opportunity to try a session at Meridian Wellness with owner and founder Laura Pilitsis. She is a licensed acupuncturist who works with clients to counteract the effects of aging through holistic bodywork and localized needlework.

What to Expect

Pilitsis started off by asking questions about my medical history, current medications and menstrual cycle. She took my pulse and observed the color and shape of my tongue, which according to Chinese medicine, offers an understanding of a client’s internal health.

Then, Pilitsis administered traditional needlework on my body, including at different points on my feet and legs, and on my wrists.

On my face, needles were placed in the middle of my forehead, between my eyebrows, at my temples, throughout my cheeks (targeting my hyperpigmentation in that area) and at several points along and behind the ears. Pilitsis mentioned needlework behind the ears is intended to lift the face.

Then, I relaxed (or tried to) while laying face up with the needles in place for about 15 minutes in the warm acupuncture room with dimmed lighting. I closed my eyes and tried not to focus too much on the fact that I had tiny needles stuck to my skin.

Pilitsis removed the needles and began massaging my face with a small amount of Vitamin C serum and coconut oil. She worked in cupping and gua sha techniques in upward motions on my neck and face, and then smoothed down the neck for lymphatic drainage.

Immediately after the session, and for hours after, my face had a post-facial glow, but without any redness or inflammation. My face was also noticeably less puffy and more contoured.

For long-term benefits, Pilitsis recommends 10 to 14 consecutive sessions, at least once a week, to see any real results. At least six consecutive sessions are required to see increased collagen production.

Pilitisis emphasizes that while facial rejuvenation helps to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines are skin issues can be addressed with this method such as dark circles, puffy eyes, hyperpigmentation and acne.

At-Home Maintenance

By regularly using techniques like facial acupuncture, you’re able to counteract the stress of daily life.

For clients who are in between facial rejuvenation treatments, or anyone who would like to add anti-aging to their skin care routine, at-home facial massages are highly recommended.

Dermarollers, jade rollers and gua sha tools are readily available to consumers. With these, skin can be massaged in an upwards motion, from the collarbone up to the forehead and then eventually gently rolled down the neck. Bonus points if you apply your favorite serum or oil on the face before massaging.