Given the notoriety of the dangers associated with cosmetic surgery, it is not surprising that ladies are seeking alternatives. Cosmetic surgery involves anesthesia, lasts for many hours, and leaves one with swelling, bruising, and redness. Recovery time is at least a couple of weeks.

Cosmetic acupuncture, on the other hand, is completely safe and has no risks or side effects aside from the possibility of slight bruising. Don't expect an actual "facelift"; the benefits of facial cosmetic acupuncture are not magical and will not be noticed overnight. Rather than cutting the skin or using harsh chemical peels, cosmetic acupuncture provides more subtle results that are noticed over time.

A practitioner will insert tiny, thin needles into wrinkles and frown lines. The needles stimulate energy to flow around the face; blood rushes to the surface, and the muscles relax. The muscles then tighten, which decreases sagging of facial skin. The needles also stimulate the cells to create new collagen fibers under wrinkles, filling in fine lines. A recent study by the International Journal of Clinical acupuncture claims that 90% of those who tried facial acupuncture saw positive results such as softening of facial lines, improvement in skin tone, reduction of under-eye circles, and a general facial rejuvenation.

Practitioners charge different fees and differ in the number of treatments they plan to administer. You should be careful, therefore, to choose a licensed practitioner for your cosmetic acupuncture needs. Licensed practitioners have been trained by qualified teachers.

Also, another benefit exclusive to acupuncture: while patients are seeking treatment for cosmetic concerns, acupuncture has a positive effect on the person as a whole. Traditional Chinese medicine has been used for stress, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and a whole list of other modern complaints. Although many are skeptical about the effectiveness of facial acupuncture, it is not hard to imagine that when one's general well-being improves, the appearance of one's skin will improve also.

You can expect the results from your facial acupuncture to stay anywhere from three to five years. Of course this is to be expected. Even drastic plastic surgeries will not stop the natural aging process. Facial acupuncture is a safe and wonderful measure by which you can attempt to slow it down, however.