Effect of Single Facial Acupuncture on Dermal Structure and Appearance Satisfaction

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture (FRA): This intervention consists of a single, comprehensive session of Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture (FRA). The procedure targets 20 specific anatomical structures across the neck, jaw, perioral, cheek, periorbital, and upper face regions. The acupuncturist uses specific needling techniques (e.g., flat, oblique, and deep insertions) to balance myofascial tension-relaxing hypertonic muscles (such as the corrugator and masseter) and stimulating hypotonic muscles (such as the zygomaticus major/minor). Additionally, ligament release techniques are applied to vertical and horizontal retaining ligaments to stimulate tissue remodeling. The intervention is administered once at Week 0 for the experimental arm, and once at Week 6 for the waitlist control arm.

Study summary

This study aims to investigate the effects of a single session of facial rejuvenation acupuncture on skin structure and personal satisfaction with facial appearance. As facial aging involves complex changes in muscles, skin, and soft tissues, facial acupuncture is considered a potential minimally invasive treatment to help restore balance and promote tissue repair.

Researchers will enroll 60 healthy adults aged 30 to 60 who are concerned about facial aging. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an immediate intervention group or a waitlist control group. The intervention group will receive one session of facial acupuncture at the start of the study. The control group will continue their normal daily skincare routine for 6 weeks, after which they will receive the same single acupuncture treatment.

All participants will be monitored weekly for 6 weeks. The research team will use non-invasive tools, including high-frequency skin ultrasound, 3D facial scanning, and a digital complexion analysis system, to objectively measure changes in skin thickness, facial volume, and wrinkles. Participants will also complete questionnaires at various time points to share their satisfaction with their appearance, self-confidence, and quality of life.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Change in Dermal Thickness — Baseline (Week 0) to Week 6
  Measured as the change in thickness (in µm) from the sub-epidermis to the upper margin of the subcutaneous fat layer using high-frequency skin ultrasound (DUB Cutis). This objective metric reflects the microstructural changes and extracellular matrix remodeling stimulated by the intervention.

Trial sites (1)

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