A safe and effective alternative to Botox or Surgery

Botox is commonplace and it is not just celebrities who swear by Botox to smooth out their wrinkles – but did you know that Botox is made from the one of the deadliest poisons known to man! Botox is a derivative of botulinum toxin: a lethal poison, which paralyses muscles that create wrinkles. However, there is an alternative to a smoother face that is toxin-free and non-invasive.

Facial rejuvenation acupuncture (FRA)

FRA is a natural treatment that helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles and improves overall muscle tone of the face. It has been used in Asia for hundreds of years to enhance beauty and preserve a youthful appearance. It works by increasing blood flow and stimulating muscles and collagen production.

A 1996 study published in the International Journal of Acupuncture revealed that of the 300 patients surveyed, 90 percent said they saw a lessening of lines, clearer skin tone, and subtle tightening after facial acupuncture treatments.

Facial acupuncture has become more popular in recent years because people are seeking a safer, natural alternative to the more invasive procedures such as Botox injection or facelift surgery.

While FRA does not claim to replace surgery or work as quickly as Botox, it is an excellent option for a number of reasons:

• It is far less costly
• No foreign substances are injected into your face
• There are no side effects or risks of disfigurement
• It is virtually painless and no anaesthesia is needed
• No trauma, wound, swelling or discolouration
• You can return to work immediately

What causes aging and how does FRA work?

According to Chinese medicine health and beauty are determined by a “free” flow of blood, Qi (energy) and lymph through a series of pathways or channels around the body including the face. If Qi, blood and lymph circulate freely there is more oxygen and nutrients to nourish the skin and less build-up of toxins and cellular waste, which can cause inflammation, blemishes and skin infections. As we age, Qi is unable to flow upward to “lift” the face and blood fails to nourish the deeper facial tissue. This eventually leads to poor muscle tone, sagging skin and wrinkles.

During FRA treatment tiny needles – as fine as a strand of hair – are inserted into specific points that spread Qi and blood out via channels to fill the face. This encourages the upward flow of energy to “lift” the face and increases blood flow to the skin and underlying muscles. Regulating the flow of Qi and blood also prevents congestion and accumulation of toxins, which lead to puffiness, blemishes and skin infections. 

What can FRA be used for?

• Sagging muscles
• Fine lines or wrinkles
• Dull or pale face
• Dry skin
• Acne or blemishes
• Inflamed skin
• Puffiness
• Dull eyes
• Dark circles
• Drooping eyelid

Does FRA hurt and is it safe?

While you may experience a sensation of numbness or tingling, acupuncture does not hurt.; there are no side effects although some bruising may occur after treatment. FRA is safe and the needles are sterilised and discarded after use.

Beauty comes from within

Acupuncture has long been used to enhance beauty and promote good health although the effects of FRA take time, it can improve your overall health. Generally you can expect to sleep more soundly and feel more energetic.

How many treatments do you need?

For best results we recommend 10 weekly treatments although you may see some improvement after 5 weekly treatments. A monthly maintenance treatment is recommended thereafter.

The first session lasts 50 minutes and follow up sessions last 40 minutes.

What to expect in your first FRA session?

IMI’s Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture (FRA) program is administered by Registered Chinese Medicine Practitioner (Acupuncture) Gianna Buonocore.

During your first session, Gianna will provide Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnostics such as checking your pulse and tongue to get an overview of your general health and uncover any underlying imbalances that may contribute to aging. She will inquire what specific areas you wish her to work on and will individualize your FRA treatment plan according to your needs.