Frequently Asked Questions
What is Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture?
(Also known as cosmetic acupuncture, facial renewal, facial acupuncture and acupuncture facelifts)
Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture is a natural alternative to facelifts, Botox™ and other costly procedures. It's safe, comfortabe, non-invasive and more affordable than surgical procedures. It also daws upon the ancient Chinese wisdom related to longevity, beauty and balance, which accounts for its growing popularity amongst men and women of all ages.
It first came to North American through the rich and famous in Hollywood and New York City. Cosmetic Acupuncture is now revered as the best kept natural secret in looking and feeling young!
Based on almost 5,000 years of documentation, experience and success, it was used by the Emperors and Empresses of ancient China. It is sometimes referred to as an “Acupuncture Face-Lift”.
What causes wrinkles?
Wrinkles and sagging are caused by three factors:
- Free radicals
- Inflammation
- Dehydration
Free-radicals work to destroy healthy skin tissue. Tissues become inflamed and dehydrated leaving them unable to retain any water and unable to repair themselves. This will lead to any of the following conditions: dull, dry or flakey skin, skin feels thinner, sagging, wrinkles, lack of lustre and lack of colour.
How does cosmetic and facial acupuncture work?
Ultra-fine disposable needles are placed in specific acu-points on the face, neck, and around the eyes to stimulate the body’s natural energies. By stimulating these areas, your body can then eliminate free-radicals more easily and begin to rebuild healthy, hydrated skin cells.
The needles also stimulate collagen production and blood circulation, which will improve facial colour and texture. Acupuncture stimulates and balances the organ systems, the neurological system and the hormonal system.
When these three systems are working more efficiently, the entire body becomes more healthy, which is then reflected in the face.
When will I see results?
Remember Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture is a process and each treatment builds upon the last. Results will be subtle at first, and over time will become very apparent to you and those around you.
Even after just your first visit your skin will look better, your face will typically glow and look healthy and fresh. Remember, each visit is like a turbo-charged spa facial... so you look great after each treatment.
For deeper changes, our clients typically notice greater results around the 7th to 8th visit. These more permanent changes include improvements in colour and texture. Our clients also report that people tell them that their skin looks "glowing".
The changes start subtle and are a great indicator that your body is responding to the treatments and that your cells are working to destroy toxic free-radicals while repairing your tissues.
Your results will also vary depending on what state your skin is in when you start the program. If you have very wrinkled and sagging skin you will notice a great improvement immediately due to the initial hydration. When the state of the skin in the beginning is extremely poor, subtle changes in the skin are very apparent.
And remember, this isn't a miracle quick fix. It has taken your skin years of sun damage, free radical attacks and stress to cause it to look older. And it takes some time to reverse that process. The good news is that your entire health benefits from these treatments.
On average, our clients notice a definite change in their appearance approximately after 6-8 months from beginning the program. Long term, the best results are seen in those clients who follow the skin regeration stage of the program. And if you make the necessary lifestyle adjustments to avoid build-up of free-radicals and other toxins your results will be even better and longer lasting.
How long will the results last?
If you were to complete the initial series, called the detoxification stage, and then discontinue the treatments. Then the results will last approximately 2 years. This is because our bodies will still be effected by free-radicals and the aging process even after an initial series of treatments. However, if you prescribed to a maintenance program (see below) your skin would continue to improve indefinitely and you will achieve greater results.
What is the second stage of the pogram - the Regeneration Stage?
Your regeneration stage will depend on your own personal goal for results. Once you have achieved positive results in your first stage of treatments. And a large portion of free radicals have been neutralized in your body. Then your treatments are then spaced out over a longer period of time, until eventually you are receiving a treatment every 3 to 6 weeks.
As an example our typical client begins the first stage of treatments with 12 initial sessions once a week. This is called the detoxification stage. After this you enter the regeneration stage - as your skin begins to regenerate deep within the cells of your body. You continue treatments for 3-6 sessions every 2-3 weeks. Then as your body keeps the regeneration momentum going we can see you less frequently and we begin to space it out to see you in 4 weeks, then 5 weeks and maybe as much as 6 weeks. Depending on your case.
What does my treatment include?
In addition to the facial acupuncture itself. Each treatment also includes a mini spa-like facial and an acupressure facial massage. You will also receive any of the following:
- a complete health evaluation
- an individualized health acupuncture treatment
- a personal supplementation plan,
- dietary recommendations,
- personalized Chinese Herbal Therapy prescription,
- personalized qigong plan and private qigong coaching,
- an objective analysis of your current skin care regime.
Do I get an overall health boost at the same time?
Yes! Your entire health and vitality is always at our top priority. We will treat all of your health concerns with acupuncture, supplements and expert advice during each of your visits.
In order to achieve the best cosmetic and health results possible, your body, mind and spirit must all be in their prime. True beauty comes from within. And optimum health is always beautiful. Make sure you share all of your health concerns with your doctor during each visit. So that you may receive as much care as possible.
How long is a treatment?
Treatments will vary in length depending on what type of treatment you are receiving and how many treatments you have had. Your 1st Treatment will be 30 minutes longer to account for the diagnosis and intake.
- Facial or Cellulite Treatment – 90 minutes
- Breast or Health Treatment – 60 minutes
- Consultation – 45-60 minutes
Other programs combining different treatments will have varying lengths. Please speak to the receptionist upon booking for exact treatment lengths.
What is the extra charge for the first treatment?
The first treatment is $54 extra. This covers our administration costs of opening a file for you and covers your initial diagnostic Traditional Chinese Medical Examination. Your Doctor will speak to you about your health history, your concerns and your treatment plan. Our doctors are highly trained in diagnostics, so this will take an extra 15-20 minutes. As a result your first treatment will also be longer than other treatments.
Is this covered by OHIP? Does my insurance cover this?
OHIP does not currently cover acupuncture. If you have a 3rd party insurance carrier (e.g. Great West Life, Manulife, Sunlife etc) you can inquire with them about any coverage they provide for acupuncture services. On average, most companies will reimburse you for acupuncture treatments either at a percentage or up to a certain dollar amount per year. Please note: it is up to the patient to inquire about their coverage and to submit their own insurance claims – all bills must be paid up front.
What are the benefits?
The benefits of acupuncture are vast and this Is just a sample of some of the more common benefits our clients boast: Increased Energy, Better Sleep, Decreased Pain, Less Menopausal Symptoms, Less Sinus Discomfort, Improved Circulation, Better Mood, Feelings of Happiness, Higher Self-Esteem, More Confidence, A Bright, Glowing Complexion, Increased Metabolism, reduced Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Parking
There is metered parking along MacLaren Street for up to 2 hours. Please bring change for the meter.
There are 2 parking lots on MacLaren Street for longer parking. One is located at the corner of MacLaren & O’Connor, the other is located at the corner of MacLaren & Bank. There is a flat fee of $8 for these lots.
What to wear
Comfort is key when choosing what to wear. Some people bring something more comfortable to change in to, and others are fine with their day clothes. Keep in mind that the Doctor may need to access certain parts of your body for your overall health acupuncture treatment – socks or stockings will generally need to be removed.
How often should I come?
Treatments are usually done once or twice per week for the first stage. It is important to remember that your Doctor will create a treatment plan to meet your constitutional needs during your first visit. Within this plan a frequency for treatments will be discussed along with any other recommendations.
After the first stage of treatments, your Doctor will evaluate your progress and redesign your plan over a longer period of time.
Should I eat before the treatment?
It is best not to eat immediately before an acupuncture treatment.
Can I exercise after the treatment?
It is best not to do anything strenuous following the acupuncture treatment. To maximize the benefits of your treatment it is suggested that you relax for the remainder of the day, or perform stress-free activities with little physical involvement.
To book your FREE consultation today at our Ottawa location, simply call us at 613-216-2135 or click here to book online NOW !