Aging gracefully, aging naturally, or just plain aging: at the end of the day, it’s what every person has in common. As much as aging is out of our control, our modern world has presented options in our control that can prevent or alter its visual signs.

The look of wrinkles and aged expressions have become a hot topic over recent years – I bet your sisterhood has discussed it too: “I’m beginning to look like my mother” or “I look tired”, “I look angry” or “how did we get to this stage so fast?!” 

What does this mean for us, and how do we embrace it as modern middle-aged women? Well, acceptance is really up to us. We need to learn to live with the reality of aging, but the question is really how we do it.

A girlfriend and I were catching up over coffee this past week, when we both noted that the lines on our face all come from life experiences: happy and sad moments, smiling and squinting, successes and challenges. The end result of –  truly living life. 

In two earlier blogs, I shared my experience with Botox as a cosmetic procedure and acupuncture as a method of hormonal transition. Recently, I have learned that acupuncture can also be a cosmetic procedure as a treatment for “aging gracefully”.

This week, I’ve invited back my friend and Doctor of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Claire Turnbull, to share more about the procedure and the training she has in the field of cosmetic acupuncture.

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How does cosmetic acupuncture benefit middle-aged women? Is this an alternative to Botox or other cosmetic treatments?

Cosmetic acupuncture benefits recipients in many ways. One pillar of traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture is to look at the patient in a holistic perspective and treat them accordingly. As such, even though cosmetic acupuncture may be the primary focus during the treatment, general health and wellbeing is also considered. Therefore, unlike Botox and other cosmetic treatments, when one has cosmetic acupuncture, they improve vitality and report feeling less stressed, have less anxiety, improved energy and are able to sleep better. The other way cosmetic acupuncture differs from Botox and other cosmetic treatments, is that it doesn’t just target one area of the skin but rather tightens and tones the entire complexion.

What kind of training have you had in this field?

I completed further training in cosmetic acupuncture a few years after I finished my three year diploma of acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine. Once I began my practice, I quickly realized there were many people considering drastic measures in order to feel more comfortable in their skin – largely because there weren’t more natural options for them. The course I took was in Minneapolis and was taught by Martha Lucas, founder of the Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture technique.

How does it work? What is expected to get best results?

Cosmetic acupuncture works by inserting tiny needles into the dermis of the skin in order to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. The stimulation from needles also increases blood flow to the face, bringing vital moisture and nutrients to the skin. Through this process the complexion brightens, the skin is toned, pores shrink, fine lines disappear, and deep wrinkles lessen. It can also reduce deep wrinkles, fine lines, frown lines, saggy skin, droopy eyelids, age spots, acne scars, and can take years off the look of your skin.

What can one expect to experience if new to cosmetic acupuncture? 

You can expect some skin care pampering and some deep, restorative relaxation. When you first come, I will assess your current skin care regimen, discuss your goals with cosmetic acupuncture, and explain the process. I prep your skin with high quality products, put in some general body balancing points, and then put in the cosmetic acupuncture pins. To insert the needles takes less than 5 minutes, and once they’re in, you get to relax on a comfortable massage table for a half hour listening to calming music. Most people fall asleep or go into a deep meditation. Once the treatment is finished, I use a jade roller to clear out any inflammation, relax tight muscles, and drain the lymphatic system.

What are the benefits you have witnessed in your practice?

I have seen complexions become more radiant, witnessed people become more confident, and heard from many that they feel more energetic. Lots of people say they stop looking at themselves in the mirror as much because they no longer are criticizing what they see. People always look and feel rejuvenated, and often report finally feeling more comfortable and confident in their own skin.

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I have yet to experience a full round of cosmetic acupuncture, but am in process of that discussion with Claire. I am already well-adjusted to the holistic “glow” and wellness component of acupuncture, as this lifestyle practice has helped balance many aspects of my health, and I am ready to explore what benefits it can offer next. I am an advocate of natural remedies, and an advocate for aging gracefully.

Get comfortable with new concepts and don’t be afraid to explore natural remedies. Your body and mind will thank you, and your radiance and energy will speak for itself. How ever you reach confidence and comfort in your own skin – go for it. Why? Because we can.

If you are interested in a session with Claire Turnbull, she has offered D by denise readers a 10% discount on an introductory session at her clinic. See below for her contact information. 

Contact Claire Turnbull, TCM Acupuncturist, at 204.691.8808 or acupuncturewithclaire(at)gmail.com or through her instagram 

Claire practices at Family Acupuncture Wellness Clinic – 897 Corydon Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. 

Photos: Casey Nolin Photography

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