Frequently Asked Questions

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Acupuncture is sought for a range of conditions – in particular pain conditions such as migraines, tension headaches, osteoarthritis, knee and back pain.There is also research to suggest that it is effective in treating mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. 

As it is an intervention involving no drugs, it is often deemed suitable for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or undergoing other treatments such as IVF. Due to the individualistic nature of acupuncture, it is commonly reported that other niggling complaints improve with a course of treatment too. Traditional acupuncture may also be used as a preventative measure before symptoms appear– for migraine flare ups or hay fever for example.

While often sought out for its "natural facelift" effects, Cosmetic Acupuncture is a comprehensive treatment that addresses both specific skin concerns and the underlying vitality of the face. It is highly effective for:

Fine Lines & Wrinkles: Softening the appearance of crow’s feet, smile lines, and forehead furrows.

Loss of Elasticity: Helping to firm a sagging jawline and lift drooping eyelids or brows.

Dull or Uneven Tone: Correcting "tired-looking" skin by boosting blood flow and oxygenation.

Puffiness & Fluid Retention: Reducing bags under the eyes and facial swelling through lymphatic drainage.

Skin Texture: Minimising the appearance of large pores and smoothing out minor scarring.

Internal Balance: Because it includes body points, it also treats the stress and hormonal imbalances that often manifest as skin breakouts or premature aging.

Acupuncture needles are so fine that they are not usually felt when inserted. It is normal however to have a dull ache or tingle as they are adjusted; this is known as “De Qi” and is the  sensation of your energy being directed by the needle. Whilst the needles are in place, most people feel relaxed – and this feeling can continue long after they have been removed.

This depends on each individual, their condition and response to treatment. As a guide however, best results are usually gained from a having a few treatments close together, before gradually becoming more spaced-out. Some people simply enjoy the relaxation that a treatment provides, and book in for "top up" treatments every few weeks or even season. 

For cosmetic acupuncture, it is generally advised to have 8-10 weekly treatments, followed by regular "top ups" every 6 weeks - though it is possible to see differences in fine lines and overall glow from the first couple of treatments.

For most treatments it is best to wear clothing that is comfortable and easy to change in and out of. 

Cupping involves creating suction on the skin using a specialist cup, (mine are plastic). Negative pressure is created when air is removed from the cup, which lifts the skin and encourages blood flow. The colour of the marks left by the cups can also be used to diagnose exactly where a muscular issue lies. 

Moxibustion is a part of Chinese Medicine which involves the burning of moxa – a herb made from mugwort leaves. The herb is placed on specific acupuncture points or meridians and lit, creating a therapeutic heat, which affects the flow of blood and Qi, (energy).

 Gua Sha is an ancient massage technique that involves gently "scraping" the skin with a smooth, flat stone tool (usually jade or rose quartz) to promote healing and rejuvenation.

"Gua" means to scrape and "Sha" refers to redness or stagnation and treatment is performed with light, intentional pressure to move stagnant lymph fluid, (drain toxins), release muscle tension and increase circulation.