Cosmetic Acupuncture Contraindications & After Care

Updated: Oct 2

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Unfortunately not all treatments are for everyone. Please check our contraindications list to make sure you avoid disappointment.

Cosmetic acupuncture is generally safe, but treatment should be avoided or adapted if any of the following apply:

Absolute Contraindications (cannot treat):

Pregnancy (especially first trimester)
Active skin infections, wounds, or open lesions on the face
Active herpes simplex outbreak (cold sores)
Active shingles in the treatment area
Uncontrolled epilepsy
Uncontrolled high blood pressure
Recent stroke, heart attack, or major surgery (within the last 6 months)
Active cancer or undergoing chemotherapy/radiotherapy (unless medically cleared)
Severe blood clotting disorders or use of strong anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin at high doses)

Relative Contraindications (caution/doctor’s clearance advised):

Diabetes (slow healing may increase risk of bruising/infection)
Haemophilia or other bleeding disorders
Use of blood-thinning medication (e.g. aspirin, clopidogrel — may increase bruising risk)
Severe migraines (need to monitor response)
Recent cosmetic surgery, fillers, or Botox (avoid treatment for at least 2–4 weeks)
Severe dental infections or abscesses
Severe anxiety or needle phobia

Aftercare Advice for Cosmetic Acupuncture

For the first 24 hours:

Avoid touching or rubbing the face unnecessarily.
Do not apply heavy creams, oils, or makeup to allow the skin to settle.
Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, steam rooms, hot baths, or excessive heat exposure.
Limit alcohol and caffeine intake (may increase bruising risk).
Avoid swimming pools (chlorine can irritate the skin).

General guidance:

Use gentle, hydrating skincare products, avoid exfoliants or acids for 48 hours.
Protect the skin with SPF if going outdoors.
Stay hydrated, water helps support circulation and healing.
Small bruises or redness can occur, these are temporary and should resolve within a few days. Please see below for help with bruising.
For best results, follow the recommended course of treatments (usually 6–12 sessions).

Avoid blood-thinning substances for 24–48 hours before treatment (if safe for you): alcohol, caffeine, aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, high doses of vitamin E.
Stay hydrated — well-hydrated skin and tissues recover more easily.
Eat a light meal before your session — low blood sugar can make you more prone to light-headedness and slower healing.
Tell your therapist if you take prescribed blood-thinning medication (you may bruise more easily).

Apply a cold compress (not directly on the skin, wrap in a clean cloth) for 10–15 minutes at a time in the first 24 hours to reduce swelling.
Avoid heat (hot showers, saunas, or vigorous exercise) for 24 hours, as this increases blood flow and can worsen bruising.
Keep the area clean and avoid pressure, don’t massage or rub the bruise.
Switch to warmth after 48 hours (a warm compress) to encourage circulation and healing.
Cover with mineral makeup if desired, it is safe to apply once the skin has settled.

Arnica montana is a natural remedy traditionally used to reduce bruising, swelling, and tenderness.
Topical gels/creams: Can be gently applied to the area (once the skin is intact and needles sites have closed, usually later the same day).
Oral arnica tablets: May be taken before and after treatment to help minimise bruising, though evidence varies.
Caution: Arnica cream should not be applied to broken skin, open wounds, or mucous membranes.