What to Expect in a Cosmetic Acupuncture Treatment

Each session begins with a full consultation, where we take time to understand your health history, skin concerns, and overall well being.  As with all our treatments, we approach the skin as a reflection of internal health, supporting your constitution and working to address the root causes, not just the surface.

A typical cosmetic acupuncture session includes:

• Facial acupuncture – fine needles placed gently to stimulate circulation, tone muscles, and promote balance in the skin

• Body acupuncture – to support internal harmony and the systems that underpin skin health

• Soothing LED light therapy – chosen for its calming and skin-supportive properties

• Facial guasha – a gentle technique to promote lymphatic flow and release tension

• Nourishing, non-comedogenic organic oils – applied to hydrate and soothe the skin

• Gentle facial cupping – to support circulation and help the skin feel revitalised

• A warm, nourishing cup of bone broth – served post-treatment to support collagen production, gut health, and hydration from within (or herbal tea for the vegetarians and vegans amongst us)

This is a deeply restorative experience designed not just to support skin appearance, but to help you feel more grounded, rested and well.

Treatment Course & Maintenance

For best results, we recommend a series of 7 to 10 weekly sessions as an initial course. This allows time for visible changes to take place, while also supporting the deeper constitutional shifts that Chinese medicine aims to facilitate.

Following this, many people choose to return for monthly maintenance to continue supporting their skin and overall vitality. Like all acupuncture, consistency is key — the benefits of regular treatment tend to build over time.

Important Notes

• We do not recommend cosmetic acupuncture if you are pregnant or trying to conceive.

• If you are currently receiving fertility or pregnancy care at Yin, please speak with us about the right time to explore this option in the future.

• As always, all treatments are tailored to you – your skin, your body, your goals.

Cosmetic Acupuncture at Yin FAQs

How is cosmetic acupuncture different from a facial?

While facials often focus solely on the surface of the skin, cosmetic acupuncture looks deeper. By combining facial and body acupuncture, we support the internal systems that influence skin health including digestion, circulation, sleep and stress regulation. We also incorporate traditional techniques like guasha and facial cupping, plus modern LED light therapy for a more integrated experience.

Is cosmetic acupuncture painful?

The needles used for facial acupuncture are extremely fine – even finer than standard body acupuncture needles. Most people find the treatment very relaxing, often drifting off to sleep. You might feel a light prick or warmth at some points, but discomfort is minimal.

How soon will I see results?

Many people notice a refreshed look and improved skin tone even after their first session. However, the effects of cosmetic acupuncture are cumulative. That’s why we recommend a course of 7 to 10 weekly treatments to begin with, followed by monthly sessions for maintenance.

What skin concerns can this support?

Many people choose cosmetic acupuncture as part of a natural approach to support skin texture, tone, puffiness, dullness, or the visible effects of stress. Because it’s a whole-body treatment rooted in Chinese medicine, clients often tell us they feel more relaxed, energised and balanced after their sessions.  These benefits that can contribute to how the skin looks and feels. While research into cosmetic acupuncture is still growing, this gentle, holistic treatment is valued by those wanting to nurture their skin and overall wellbeing at the same time.

Can I do cosmetic acupuncture alongside fertility or pregnancy treatments?

If you are undergoing acupuncture for fertility support, are pregnant, or are preparing for conception, we recommend waiting until after this time to begin cosmetic acupuncture.

While cosmetic acupuncture is not contraindicated in pregnancy and is not considered unsafe, our focus with fertility and pregnancy support is to encourage and prioritise the smooth flow of Qi and blood to the uterus and reproductive system. Cosmetic acupuncture, by design, directs a significant amount of Qi and circulation to the face. From a Chinese medicine perspective, we prefer to dedicate the body’s resources to supporting the uterus, implantation, and ongoing pregnancy, rather than dispersing that energy elsewhere.

Our team will be happy to guide you on the right timing to start cosmetic acupuncture that aligns with your individual journey.