Acupuncture has been used for centuries to treat everything from chronic pain to infertility. Now its being popularized to smooth away the wrinkles and facial creases associated with aging.
Although no studies have been done to gauge its effectiveness, facial acupuncture has developed a following with those who want a natural way to lessen frown lines and crows feet.
However, many who have chosen this alternative route over synthetic options like Botox or Restylane say theyve noticed fewer lines, tighter skin and better skin tone, according to U.S. News and World Report.
A writer who tried facial acupuncture and wrote about it for the Today Show and MSNBC.com says most facial acupuncturists recommend a series of 10 successive sessions about once a week with monthly follow-up treatments for maintenance.
She says its not pain-free, but agrees with her acupuncturist, Beth Hooper, that it is tolerable. “I think it is important for people to know that while it isnt a pain-free treatment, the needles only hurt a little and just on insertion,” explained Hooper.
Other natural ways to improve the skins appearance include vitamin and mineral-enriched creams and lotions as well as .
According to WebMD, vitamins A, C, E, K and B as well as selenium, copper, zinc and fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6 all contribute to a better complexion. 