The placement of the needles is determined, as with all skilled acupuncture, in a way that is entirely customized to the individual – taking into account both the client’s goals and concerns, and the practitioner’s determinations based upon his/her years of training. From a western point of view, needling the face increases collagen production and blood flow. From an eastern viewpoint it brings Qi to the face and maximizes the beneficial flow of ‘righteous substances’ (Qi, blood, pure fluids) within the body that impacts skin health as well as the entire system in general. A full-body acupuncture treatment is done at the same time to maximize benefits to the skin as well as address any other concerns. Therefore, a full therapeutic intake is done before beginning a Cosmetic treatment or series, just as it would be for any other presenting issue – its basically two-for-one! After needle placement (which is usually get minimally or not at all) you are free to relax for 40 minutes or so while the needles ‘work’. Upon removal of the needles, a tui na (Chinese meridian) massage is performed on the face using organic luxury TCM herbal products from our Qi Formularie line, which has been conceived to support the Qi and target specific skin issues in a further customized way. Meditation and breathing techniques are shared to help with stress management and mindfulness in a way that particularly emphasizes how this impacts skin health as well as overall wellness.