The technique of inserting filiform needles into specific spots on the body and then manipulating those needles is a practice that many Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners have done for centuries. Acupuncture, as it is called, is understood by many of us to be the practice of balancing the body’s energy, or qi, which can be beneficial in relieving pain and nausea among many other things.

What many of us don’t know is that when it comes to skin fitness, acupuncture can work wonders. Acupuncture is commonly used in treating eczema, psoriasis, dry skin, and acne. In most cases, practitioners will recommend a combination of diet and herbal supplements to complement the acupuncture treatments.

For acne specifically, this combination of treatments, many claim, can be more effective than benzoyl peroxide and antibiotics. In treating acne the acupuncture needles are usually placed at key points on the body that are known to be related to the skin condition, but they can be placed on or near an actual pimple.

In the practice there are hundreds of points identified on the body, many of which are associated with skin problems. For instance, by focusing on points that promote cooling of the organs, both certain types of eczema and acne are treated. A consequence of unequal energies in the body is a skin condition.

There are many ongoing studies intending to prove or disprove acupuncture’s efficacy and many scientists cannot agree on how effective it really is. Regardless of the scientific community’s feelings, more than 10 million Americans seek acupuncture treatment each year and most claim significant results.

Acupuncture is common enough that most skin spas are staffed with a provider or can easily recommend a qualified practitioner. Those that practice are required to be licensed by the state.

Acupuncture must be done in a series for best results, like most skin care treatments. With treatments two to three times a week in the beginning, you should plan for less frequent visits once your skin’s fitness has improved.