More women turning to acupuncture before cosmetic surgery

With botox getting some bad press this week that users may have trouble reading other people's emotions, it's one more reason some women are looking for alternatives, including one approach that's been around for centuries.

Kelli Hodge just turned 40 and is hoping that the age-old art of acupuncture will take a few years off her face. 

"What we're trying to do is create a micro trauma under the skin to take advantage of the body's natural healing process," explained acupuncturist Rick Bernard.

Bernard says that the treatment stimulates collagen production which helps fill in wrinkles, and there's another benefit.

"It wakes the nerve up and gives you a natural lifting effect," he said.

It can also help minimize vertical lines between the eyes.

"I think it's definitely taken off five years," said Nicki Banucci who recently got cosmetic acupuncture. "My laugh lines improved completely."

Most people need about ten sessions at about $100 dollars each. Kelli finds the treatment surprisingly relaxing.

"It's just a slight pinch," she said. "The needle goes in and the pinch goes away once the needle is in."

Occasionally the client gets a little bruising, and while Kelli may not get the same dramatic and quick results of botox, she says she'd much rather take this chemical free approach to beauty. After three treatments, she saw results.

"I think the wrinkles diminished and these deep set lines diminished as well," Kelli said. 

Best of all, she says she still looks like herself, only younger

Results can last up 18 months, which can be extended with maintenance treatments.

Look for a practitioner who specializes in cosmetic acupuncture or facial rejuvenation acupuncture.