Acupuncture is a safe, natural treatment option for many health conditions when performed by a qualified professional. To ensure safety:

Choose a licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.)

Share your full health history

Follow any pre- or post-treatment guidelines

Acupuncture is generally very safe when performed by a licensed and properly trained practitioner. It has been used for thousands of years and is supported by modern research for its safety and effectiveness in treating various conditions.

Most people find acupuncture to be painless or only mildly uncomfortable. The needles used are extremely thin—about the width of a human hair—and are very different from the needles used for injections or blood draws.

You may feel:

A slight pinch or tingling when the needle is inserted

A dull ache, warmth, heaviness, or pulsing sensation (this is normal and often a sign that the treatment is working)

Many people feel relaxed or even sleepy during treatment

If you ever feel sharp pain or strong discomfort, your practitioner can adjust or remove the needle right away.

Microneedling performed by a licensed acupuncturist offers both aesthetic and therapeutic benefits—combining holistic knowledge of the body with advanced skin-rejuvenation techniques. Licensed acupuncturists understand how the skin reflects overall health. They treat skin conditions not just on the surface, but also by addressing internal imbalances like stress, digestion, circulation, and hormones—creating longer-lasting, more holistic results.

Acute Conditions

(e.g. recent injuries, mild pain, short-term stress, or colds)

3–6 treatments, often 1–2 times per week

Many people see improvement quickly

Chronic Conditions

(e.g. long-term pain, insomnia, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances)

6–12 treatments or more, typically 1–2 times per week to start

Then, taper to maintenance sessions as symptoms improve

Maintenance or Wellness

1 treatment every 3–4 weeks, or seasonally

Supports overall balance, stress reduction, immunity, and prevention

Most people experience little to no side effects, and acupuncture is considered safe and low-risk when performed by a trained professional.

Common (Mild) Side Effects

These are usually short-term and resolve quickly:

Soreness or tenderness at the needle site

Mild bruising or redness

Fatigue or lightheadedness (especially after your first session)

Emotional release, such as feeling unusually calm or tearful — this can be part of the healing process

Temporary symptom flare-up, which usually indicates the body is responding to treatment

For your comfort and to give your practitioner easy access to acupuncture points, it’s best to wear loose, comfortable clothing. You may be asked to remove your shoes and socks.

Avoid heavy makeup or skincare products before facial acupuncture or microneedling.