A few weeks ago I had the privilege of presenting this topic on the Anti-Ageing Stage at the Beauty Expo in Sydney.

Although the audience was filled with beauty therapists, dermal therapists, cosmetologists and the like, it was met with great interest due to the likes of Nicki Hilton and Victoria Secret Models Brooks Nadar and Jasmine Arora being big fans of this facial.

Here is an AHPRA-compliant rewrite with appropriate wording, reduced absolutes, removal of causal disease claims, and reframing into Traditional Chinese Medicine theory as traditional concepts rather than diagnostic fact:

You might look at younger women and wonder why they are already interested in skin health and ageing support. In reality, many people are simply wanting to maintain healthy, vibrant-looking skin and support a sense of confidence in how they present themselves over time.

Understanding the appearance of ageing in Traditional Chinese Medicine

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, skin changes over time are viewed through a holistic lens. Ageing is considered a natural physiological process that cannot be stopped; however, TCM theory suggests that various internal and external lifestyle factors may influence how these changes appear.

These factors may include diet, sleep quality, stress levels, emotional wellbeing, environmental exposure, and skincare routines.

In TCM practice, different facial observations are traditionally interpreted as possible reflections of underlying patterns of imbalance within the body. It is important to note that these are traditional frameworks used in Chinese medicine theory and are not medical diagnoses.

Examples of traditional TCM facial assessment patterns

Within this traditional framework, some commonly referenced observations include:

• Under-eye puffiness or swelling
  Traditionally associated with fluid accumulation patterns or digestive-related functional imbalance in TCM theory.

• Changes in eyebrow lift or facial tone
  Sometimes described in TCM as relating to overall energy movement and muscle tone expression within the face.

• Fine lines and dryness in the skin
  Traditionally linked in TCM theory with reduced fluid nourishment and dryness patterns.

• Sagging or loss of facial firmness (e.g. jawline changes)
  In TCM terminology, sometimes discussed in relation to overall digestive energy and structural support within the body system.

• Uneven skin tone or pigmentation changes
  In traditional practice, these observations may be explored in relation to circulation patterns, hormonal influences, genetics, and environmental exposure, depending on the individual presentation.

• Visible scarring or textural changes
  May be considered within TCM as part of the body’s natural healing response following physical or emotional experiences.

A holistic perspective on skin health and ageing

It is important to recognise that skin ageing is influenced by a combination of internal and external factors, and changes in the skin are a normal part of life.

From a holistic skin health perspective, the focus is not on reversing or stopping ageing, but rather on supporting skin vitality through:

• Balanced nutrition and hydration

• Stress management and emotional wellbeing

• Quality sleep and recovery

• Gentle, appropriate skincare routines

• Lifestyle habits that support overall wellbeing

Supporting skin health through a holistic approach

At Salubre, we take a holistic skin health approach, combining Traditional Chinese Medicine principles with modern skin wellness education to support individuals in caring for their skin in a sustainable way.

This may include:

• Skin health consultations using a TCM-informed framework

• Herbal medicine support (where appropriate)

• Nutritional and lifestyle guidance for skin vitality

• Topical skincare formulations designed for sensitive and reactive skin

• Educational resources to support long-term skin wellbeing

“These images are examples and indicative only. Individual results may vary depending on personal factors.”

Before exploring how it works

Before understanding how a treatment approach works, it is helpful to first reflect on a few key considerations:

What may contribute to visible skin ageing?

From a holistic skin health perspective, it can be useful to consider:

1. Whether the appearance of skin changes may be influenced or accelerated by lifestyle, environmental, or internal factors

2. Whether there are broader wellbeing or health concerns that may be relevant to overall skin condition

3. The skin’s nutritional and topical support needs to maintain hydration, barrier function, and overall skin vitality

4. Desired outcomes in relation to skin appearance, comfort, and general wellbeing over a realistic timeframe

These reflections are ideally explored in consultation with a qualified health practitioner, as individual needs can vary significantly. A personalised approach helps guide appropriate treatment selection and skincare strategies.

How an Acupuncture Facial is traditionally understood

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, facial acupuncture is traditionally used within a holistic framework to support circulation, facial muscle tone, and overall skin vitality.

It is important to note that these explanations are based on traditional Chinese medicine theory and are not medical claims or guarantees of outcome.

Fine, sterile acupuncture needles are placed at specific points on the face and body within a TCM framework. Traditionally, this approach is used to support:

• Local circulation

• Muscle relaxation in the facial region

• A sense of facial lift and tone

• Overall balance within TCM energetic theory (such as Qi flow concepts)

In TCM, facial changes such as sagging or loss of firmness are traditionally discussed in relation to changes in overall vitality and energetic balance. These are theoretical concepts used within Chinese medicine practice and should not be interpreted as medical diagnoses.

The Salubre Acupuncture Facial Experience

The Salubre Acupuncture Facial is designed as a holistic skin support treatment experience, combining traditional techniques with modern skincare and wellness modalities.

Step-by-step process:

Step 1: Skin is cleansed using Pure Delicacy Gentle Cleansing Lotion
Step 2: The skin is prepared using gentle facial massage techniques, including jade roller application
Step 3: Gua Sha techniques may be used to support relaxation and encourage gentle facial massage effects
Step 4: Fine sterile acupuncture needles are applied by a qualified practitioner, followed by body point treatment if appropriate within a TCM framework
Step 5 (optional): LED light therapy may be used as part of a modern skincare support approach to assist with general skin appearance and calmness
Step 6: Needles are safely removed after the treatment duration
Step 7: A topical serum such as Drops of Youth Anti-Ageing Serum is applied to support hydration and skin nourishment
Step 8: A moisturiser such as Pearl Brilliance Anti-Oxidant Enriched Day Cream is applied to support skin hydration and barrier comfort

Important context

This treatment approach is intended as a complementary skin support modality within a holistic skincare framework. Individual experiences may vary, and outcomes are influenced by multiple factors including lifestyle, skin condition, and overall wellbeing.

For best results, treatments are ideally tailored through professional consultation to ensure suitability for each individual’s skin health needs.