Calling the acupuncture facial cosmetic procedure a facelift may be a misnomer, but it is nevertheless an effective method for improving the appearance and health of our skin, and leads to better health overall. In fact, if used with a good topical skin care treatment product that helps retain moisture and protect the skin from environmental chemicals, you may be able to avoid going under the knife. Here's what you need to know.

The beauty of the acupuncture facelift is that it doesn't just treat the face -- it also treats the organs and other internal elements that are contributing to the problem. In Chinese medicine it is believed that your skin is a reflection of your overall health so, in the process of diagnosing and working out a treatment plan for the fine lines, wrinkles, slack jaw or drooping eyelids that you want to improve, they also determine which internal organs, systems and functions are up to par and which are not so they can also treat from the inside out.

It doesn't work as quickly as a facelift, and it may not get such dramatic results, but you will almost definitely see marked improvement.

Does it hurt? About as much as a pin prick, sometimes less or not at all. Even those who are afraid of needles don't usually have a problem with it -- it is a far different experience than having a thicker needle inserted into a vein. After the insertions, you relax for about 30 minutes -- and, yes, you actually do relax, some people even fall asleep -- then the needles are extracted. There may be occasional minor bruising, but that's rare. Usually you need about 10 treatments, more if there's a lot of work to do, and then some maintenance here and there.

A good cosmetic acupuncturist can be found through the American Cosmetic Acupuncture Association website -- they only list licensed practitioners who have also studied facial cosmetic technique and are expert at skin care treatment, so you don't have to worry if the person you go to knows what they're doing.

Even though you're going to save thousands of dollars by using this procedure rather than surgery, you want to take full advantage of it by keeping your skin hydrated and protecting it from substances that cause further damage. For that you need a good topical skin care treatment product that locks in moisture and keeps out the chemicals in soaps and cosmetics, and in the environment. Use it while you're receiving your acupuncture, and thereafter. You may be surprised at the results - you'll look and feel great, and instead of surgery, botox, harsh chemicals and drugs, you'll have accomplished your goals with natural skin care treatment that is safe, non-invasive and beneficial for overall health.