Cosmetic Acupuncture
Two Approaches, One Appointment
Cosmetic acupuncture uses very fine needles placed in the face and elsewhere on the body to encourage circulation and support the condition of the skin itself. One of the benefits of cosmetic acupuncture is that it is both a facial and body treatment. Acupuncture points on the body are added based on the patients pulse and health history which help support any underlying health concerns contributing to skin health. For instance, acne is often treated only topically. With cosmetic acupuncture, we can address the topical concerns of acne while also addressing stress, gut or hormone imbalances, inflammation, and the immune system - all at the same time, in one treatment.
Cosmetic acupuncture reaches the dermal layer of the skin without excessive injury like lasers or even microneedling. The dermal layer is the important layer that needs to be stimulated to encourage collagen production. However, microneedling can also be stacked with cosmetic acupuncture treatments (on different visits) as a complementary way to address more significant wrinkles, scars, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.Sessions are combined with photobiomodulation or low-level light therapy using the Celluma device. This device uses both red and infrared light to improve circulation and collagen production on the surface of the skin as well as deeper structures.
Many people are drawn to cosmetic acupuncture because it takes a gentler, more holistic path to healthy skin. Rather than changing the face from the outside, it supports the skin's own ability to renew itself, which tends to produce changes that look natural and build steadily over time.
Because Dr. Forbes is a physician trained in acupuncture, each treatment at her Phoenix practice is shaped by your overall health as well as your skin. Sleep, stress, and digestion often show up in the complexion, and she takes those into account when choosing which points to use.
Booking and Combining Treatments
Cosmetic acupuncture is booked as a stand-alone service, with 20% off for direct primary care members. These services can be stacked with a laser treatment protocol to enhance results. They can also support collagen production in the healing phase between laser sessions.
Sessions are relaxing and there is absolutely no downtime. Dr. Forbes will map out a series based on your skin and what you are hoping to change.
The fine needles are placed with care, and most patients find the experience calm and restful. Some mild redness or a small bruise at a needle site can occur, but it usually fades quickly.
Results from cosmetic acupuncture build gradually, so a series of sessions usually gives the best outcome. Dr. Forbes usually follows the Mai Zen protocol, which is two treatments per week for 5 weeks. Dr. Forbes will check how your skin is responding as you go and adjust the plan, whether that means adding microneedling, pairing it with a laser treatment, or simply spacing your visits differently.
Cosmetic acupuncture works with your skin's own circulation and healing rather than only on the surface.
