Microneedling, or collagen induction therapy, is done with an electrified pen with several mini-needles or pins. Microneedling creates micro injuries on the dermal layers of the face or body then a topical serum is applied to induce moisture-attracting hyaluronic acid into the deeper dermal layers, plumping skin and smoothing out wrinkles.

You see, the key is to feel empowered when it comes to your wellness (vs powerless which most patients feel in a traditional healthcare setting) that usually translates to other things in your life as well. I know it sounds cliche but it's so true; you feel better about everything when you feel good. We usually take our wellness for granted because our bodies are amazing when it comes to adapting to what we subject them to. The body will compensate for no exercise, eating unhealthy and untimely, bad sleeping habits, etc, etc and it will keep us functional since it is unbelievably powerful to adapt. But that doesn't mean it's not compensating which usually has long-term (or even sometimes, short-term) consequences. It is so paramount to have a global wellness plan which is not just centered around regular exercise but extends to a good nutrition plan, proper supplement support, and sustaining sleep hygiene. And 2BWell is your one-stop-shop for all that! You get help from a professional to fix your car, your hair, your house, so why not your body? One of the most rewarding experiences of working at 2BWell is how I witness first-hand the effect that our providers are making on people's lives on a daily basis. I see how someone who might be a bit out of their element comes to us when they might be carrying a few extra pounds and a small bag of prescription medications, but begin to transform within a few short weeks to have a lot more control over their wellness and their lives.

This process of slight injury and regeneration works the way exercise and proper nutrition prompt the body to build more muscle. Microneedling encourages more qi and blood, collagen and elastin that recreates the skin for a more youthful appearance. As the skin's healing response is triggered, it gets a second chance to repair wrinkles, scars, open pores, visible blood vessels, puffiness and discoloration. The result is a smoother complexion and a more youthful appearance.

While this all perhaps sounds plausible, you might be wondering if there is any scientific evidence on whether microneedling actually works. Studies published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology and the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive, & Aesthetic Surgery both found microneedling to be safe and effective at treating a variety of skin issues.

According to one study, just "four microneedling treatments of facial skin, spaced four weeks apart, significantly improves lines, wrinkles, skin laxity and skin texture, 90 and 150 days after the first treatment.”

Not only does microneedling stand up to contemporary science, it also has parallels that are firmly based in ancient Chinese Medicine. A technique called seven star, or plum blossom, needling has been used therapeutically for a thousand years. Plum blossom needling uses a dermal hammer, a head with 5 or 7 needles on a stick, which is tapped lightly on the skin to induce a little bleeding, and with it, the release of heat and toxins. It's not as precise as the derma pen, but plum blossom needling yields pretty amazing results for muscle pain, bronchitis and varicose veins.

Our provider, Hilarey Boly, LAc, has received special training in facial rejuvenation and has been using Microneedling, in conjunction with another lesser utilized branch of Chinese Medicine, Chinese Face Reading. This unique combination is proving to yield a fascinating and comprehensive healing, not just the skin but the underlying cause of wrinkles, facial expressions, and the emotions behind them! According to Chinese Face Reading, the face is a topographic map of our lives and how we've lived emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Our wrinkles form when we chronically hold emotions. Of course, emotions like joy are good. If we don't make 'laugh lines' as we age, it suggests we've not experienced enough joy in life. Conversely, laugh lines that extend deeply to the hair line suggest too much joy or mania.

Common and less attractive wrinkles many of us develop are the single "suspended needle” or the two "11” lines between our eyebrows. These lines indicate repressed anger or frustration and when very defined, tend to make us look angry. These lines obscure the third eye. Repressed anger or frustration create deep grooves that limit intuition, insight or seeing a broader perspective, which curiously just might be the antidote to the anger or frustration.

Experiencing microneedling with a skilled practitioner of Chinese Medicine and Face Reading offers a unique healing journey that provides our patients the opportunity to learn more about their individual facial topography, having their innate talents and proclivities illuminated, along with a new understanding of what might be holding them back. The microneedling assists to smooth the lines and liberate positive new ways of knowing and expressing who and what we truly are: a beauty that illuminates from inside out.

Be well,
Siamak