Research on cosmetic acupuncture has shown that the process stimulates the flow of blood and energy through the skin in the face, thereby hydrating and boosting the skin’s supply of nutrients and oxygen, and reducing the signs of aging. More importantly, facial rejuvenation acupuncture helps to harmonize the whole body. Acupuncture not only resolves problems at the surface, but it also addresses the internal imbalance causing the problem in the first place.

The process begins with a personal consultation and an assessment of your medical history, skin care regime, and lifestyle. Then a cosmetic acupuncture treatment is tailored to your needs. After a thorough facial cleansing, an acupuncturist will lightly tap fine, sterile needles into place at specific key acupoints of the face, head, neck and ears. Supportive needles will also be used on the body to balance your entire foundation. Cosmetic acupuncture needles are inserted quickly and precisely to ensure a very tolerable, quick pinch when being inserted. The needle is left in the skin for approximately 30 minutes and during this time facial acupressure and gentle massage is applied. The massage is an integral part of the treatment.

The benefits of facial rejuvenation acupuncture include:
-    An increase of collagen production
-    Improvement of the blood and lymph circulation to the face and scalp
-    Prevention of the formation of wrinkles and minimized appearance of fine lines.
-    Removal of accumulative toxins from the body.
-    Restructuring of the skin, relaxation of facial muscles, and stimulation of the body’s ability to regenerate itself by accelerating anti-inflammatory activity.

Numerous studies have shown that the chance of experiencing side effects is extremely low, and that the process provides a positive treatment for a wide range of health conditions. The sensation of the acupuncture needle varies from patient to patient, but many patients have found treatments to be relaxing and many fall asleep or find themselves in a deeply peaceful state. After the treatment, people often feel relaxed, refreshed, and simultaneously energized.

If you’re a stressed bride-to-be, consider going in for an acupuncture treatment to restore your body’s balance and rejuvenate for your wedding day.

Sources Used:
Traditional Acupuncture - http://www.pcacupuncture.co.uk/

The Edmonton Journal has just published an interesting beauty article on a new hair trend called the “Brazilian Blowout” (read the Edmonton Journal article here)

The blowout is a temporary, keratin based, hair straightening technique that gives you a sleek, frizz-free look without harsh chemicals.

Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Nicole Richie have been seen sporting Brazilian Blowouts and recently, Richie blogged about its amazing results: “You HAVE to get a Brazilian blow dry!”. Salons across North America are quickly embracing this treatment as its success in Hollywood is inspiring many women (and men) to ask their hairdressers about it.

The Brazilian Blowout was developed by Mauricio Ribeiro, a stylist from Sao Paulo, who now works and teaches in West Hollywood. This professional keratin-based treatment relaxes curls and leaves hair smooth, shiny, and frizz-free for up to 12 weeks. The Brazilian Blowout starts with a clarifying shampoo and as the hair is still wet, a protein based formula (comprising of amino acids, camu camu, and annatto seed) is applied to each lock of hair. The hair is then blow-dried and flat ironed at 450 °F (232 °C) to seal in the product. To complete the treatment, the hair is rinsed and conditioned with a specially formulated Brazilian Blowout masque.

The process takes about 90 minutes, and currently costs anywhere from $300 to $450…

(more…)

I’ve been a big fan of Gwyneth Paltrow’s newsletter, GOOP. Recently Gwyneth featured some awesome tips from the famous makeup artist Patti Dubroff. There are some great tips for any bride in search of Makeover ideas and some great bath, detox and body scrubs…Enjoy!

Click on the above GOOP logo to go directly to the newsletter.