Although there are many treatments for acne, only a handful have been shown to really work — one of which is acupuncture. This ancient medical practice has been shown to reduce the occurrences of acne and even help heal previous scars and blemishes. Because many elements can cause acne, several areas of the body are stimulated to limit the production of acne-inducing hormones and, therefore, limit future breakouts.
Acupuncture uses thin needles to interrupt the energy in the body, spreading it all around to put the body in balance — a balanced chi.
Three different types of acupuncture can be used for acne treatment include the following.
- Regular acupuncture — Deemed as the main acupuncture technique, this is where the needles are strategically placed along hot spots in the body to stimulate nerves and energy.
- Electro-acupuncture — This is when electrical currents are applied to the acupuncture needles inserted into the skin to stimulate energy movement in the body. It also allows for a stronger stimulation of the needle than the hand can give.
- Auricular acupuncture — Applied to the ear, this treatment utilizes the many pressure points found in the ear that can help stimulate blood flow and energy balance to the various parts of the body.
The key acupuncture points for acne are the stomach, lungs and large intestine. Once stimulated, they will give off natural cooling that will stop heat from activating acne. The herbal remedies and medications usually have side effects and may be an optoin for those afraid of acupuncture needles. The largest benefit from acupuncture treatments is that it can reduce the symptoms of acne and produce little side effects.
When the acupuncture needles are placed an inch apart from every acne lesion on your face or back, this is called “surrounding the dragon”. This is a simple and common acupuncture technique that focuses on specific points. In this case, the points are not energy spots in the body; rather, they are the problem areas themselves. The reason for this is to break up the toxins and tension that cause the acne.
Damp heat and high testosterone levels are major internal causes of acne and “surrounding the dragon” is the best way to eliminate it. The needles are then left for about 20 minutes to disperse the tense energy in the local area and help decrease inflammation around the acne site.
Ensure that you balance your acupuncture treatments with a healthy diet that is rich with fruits and vegetables. Because fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants they can also promote the balance of energy as well as the elimination of toxins. Drinking lots of water following your acupuncture sessions will help the body flush toxins released in the process.
Finally, pick a reputable acupuncturist to ensure effective and efficient acupuncture treatments.
