EASTERN FACIAL TECHNIQUES

A relatively new innovation in the UK – the Chinese have been using acupuncture for facial revitalisation for thousands of years since practices were employed for the Empress and the Emperor's concubines. 

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Facial acupuncture (also referred to as facial revitalisation, rejuvenation, cosmetic & natural facelift acupuncture) offers a non-surgical, non-toxic journey to healthier and better looking skin by boosting circulation of oxygen, blood and nutrients, activating detoxification processes and lymphatic drainage, and releasing tight muscles. Ultra fine needles are inserted to stimulate a healing response, collagen production and skin cell renewal, resulting in a more radiant appearance and healthier looking skin.

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My needle technique is very gentle and I use the finest Japanese needles and purely natural organic skincare products to minimise any discomfort and post treatment marks. Please be aware, occasionally slight bruising can occur due to the delicate nature of the facial skin, it may be worth considering this before an important occasion.

Cupping is an age-old health practice that uses gentle suction cups on the skin for various health issues. Facial cupping is simply an adaptation of traditional body cupping techniques. It’s used on the face  to stimulate circulation, reduce puffiness, and sculpt the deeper tissues of the face for a healthy, lifted glow.

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Facial oil is applied and the cups are moved across the face following meridian lines and natural lymphatic pathways. Great for fresh nourishng blood flow, contouring, reducing puffiness and lip plumping. 

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Gua sha is an ancient Chinese technique that involves using a flat tool to stimulate the skin and underlying tissue. Gua sha tools are usually made of stone like jade or rose quartz. Great for releasing tension, lifting, circulation and puffiness. 

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Face rollers are generally a soothing treatment that can reduce puffiness and stimulate blood flow. Face rolling is a great for product penetration, soothing the skin, and feels lovely! 

The face is an incredibly hard working part of our body, constantly giving and receiving information, housing all of our senses, as well as expressing (or supressing) thoughts and feelings.

When our minds are affected by stress, it clearly shows on our faces. Our facial muscles  tighten, constricting blood vessels, limiting the flow of blood and nutrients; resulting not only in skin imbalances, congestion, premature aging and tired looking skin, but can also contribute to painful conditions such as headaches, sinusitis and jaw pain.

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Taking some time to deeply relax your face, will not only help relax tense muscles, improve circulation and release stress; but can help smooth emotions and soothe the mind. With a calm mind, stress seems more manageable and when stress is resolved from the inside, it's soon reflected in the face on the outside.

I am trained in Virginia Doran's Facial Rejuvenation Massage and Acupuncture programme which is highly regarded worldwide in terms of effectiveness and thoroughness of training. For many years I organised her UK workshops and assisted Virginia with teaching. 

I've completed training in Eastern facial therapies including facial cupping, gua sha, jade roller and acupressure at the College of Oriental Therapy in London. I have also completed Ayurvedic health and skincare training in Kerala, India.

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I've practised facial acupuncture and therapy for 15+ years, and have facilitated natural face care sessions at various wellbeing retreats. I volunteer at the Survivors Network offering monthly mindful facial group sessions with women and girls who have experienced sexual violence. 

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The mind-body connection couldn't be clearer than on our faces, and I deeply believe that by caring for our faces with natural kindness we send ourselves messages of self love that travel way beyond the surface of the skin to our tissues, to our very bones, and to the subtle realms of the psyche.