Does it hurt?
As acupuncture needles are super thin, usually 0.16mm to 0.20mm in gauge (thickness), you are unlikely to feel them being inserted. Once in place, common sensations include a dull aching feeling, warmth, and tingling up or down the limb, although you may feel nothing at all.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions that may be needed depends entirely on the nature of the condition.
I will try to advise on your first visit how many treatments you may expect, however since each person responds differently I may suggest a number of visits, for example three, followed by a review to assess progress. As a very rough guide, chronic deep-seated conditions tend to take longer to resolve than newer acute symptoms, and your general constitution and commitment to improving your condition factor in.
Is it safe?
When performed by a qualified and licensed professional, acupuncture is extremely safe. Choosing a BAcC member guarantees that your acupuncturist has been trained to a high standard. All needles are disposable and unlike many prescription drugs, acupuncture is virtually side-effect free. The York Safety Survey found no serious adverse events from acupuncture in over 34,000 treatments with the most common side effects reported being “feeling relaxed” and ‘feeling energised”.
Before and after treatment
Please wear loose clothing for your appointment so you are comfortable on the treatment couch.
It is advisable to have something to eat prior to an acupuncture session as low blood sugar during treatment may make you feel faint. After treatment you may feel a little more tired and relaxed than usual, this is perfectly normal.
Facial enhancement acupuncture
While acupuncture is a very safe procedure, certain health conditions may contraindicate or complicate facial acupuncture treatment. These include:
Pregnancy
Chronic recurrent migraines
Uncontrolled high blood pressure
Uncontrolled diabetes
Patients taking blood thinners who have problems with bleeding or bruising
During a current bout of heavy cold, flu or the Herpes Simplex (cold sore) virus
Do ask me for specific advice on any conditons however.
Treatment Frequency
Facial Enhancement Acupuncture is most effective after a course of 6 - 10 treatments and results are gradual rather than dramatic. Most patients notice a complexion change almost immediately, a facial (wrinkle & tightness) change after 3-4 treatments and lasting changes are common around the 7th to 10th treatments.
Intial blocks of treatments are most effective when taken once a week to once every two weeks on a regular basis.
After a course of treatment, monthly maintenance treatments will ‘top-up’ the results.
To ensure all available time is used for your treatment, you are asked to arrive for your appointment with a clean face. It is also advisable to wait a few hours after treatment before applying face make-up. Mineral powder is a kinder option to the skin if this is unavoidable.
