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August 21, 2025

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Ageing gracefully isn’t just about good genes or pricey creams – it’s also about the everyday habits we choose. We asked a cosmetic acupuncturist to share the simple rituals she swears by to keep skin glowing and youthful.

Expert banner for Dr Vivian Tam.

Dr Vivian Tam (CM) is a Melbourne-based Doctor of Chinese Medicine and cosmetic acupuncturist, and the founder of Cosmetic Acupuncture Melbourne. A renowned industry leader and educator, she trains other practitioners in advanced cosmetic acupuncture techniques and is also the founder of Zilch Formulas, a range of herbal supplements for acne and wellness. With a special focus on skin health, anti-ageing, dermatology and acne, Dr Tam combines traditional Chinese Medicine with a modern, results-driven approach that addresses the root causes of skin concerns.

Woman with clear skin.
Younthful skin involves the whole body, inside and out. Image: Canva

As a cosmetic acupuncturist and Doctor of Chinese Medicine, my approach to anti-ageing is the low and slow game, looking internally rather than focusing only on external and skin-related treatments.

It’s about building habits that keep skin healthy, vibrant and supported over time, and heroing wellness as much as skin health.

These are five things I personally do to look after my skin and slow down the ageing process.

Keep inflammation and stress low

Woman meditating.
Find your best way to de-stress. Image: Canva

Inflammation is a key driver of premature ageing. The higher the inflammation, the faster the breakdown of healthy collagen, which speeds up the ageing process. So I make sure I manage my stress levels, eat whole nutrient-rich foods and use acupuncture, Chinese herbs and adaptogens to support balance and reduce cortisol and inflammation.

High cortisol from chronic stress not only affects mood but also slows skin healing and can make it appear dull or puffy. Simple daily practices like exercise, meditation, walking and time outdoors help keep both my mind and skin healthy.

Gua sha for circulation and lymphatic flow

Woman using a gua sha.
Gua sha stimulates circulation. Image: Canva

Gua sha is one of my favourite home rituals. I use it a few times a week to encourage blood flow in the face, move the fluid retention that shows up as puffiness, and bring back that glow.

The key is to use gentle but firm strokes starting from the centre of the face and moving outwards, then guiding the fluid down the neck to the lymph nodes. It only takes a few minutes and leaves my skin looking fresher straight away.

I suggest using a natural oil to lubricate the skin before you start and doing it on clean skin, right after you shower.

Eat warm, nourishing foods

Bowl of hot soup.
Consider swapping some salads for soups. Image: Canva

In Chinese Medicine, we believe digestion is like a cooking pot that works best when it’s kept warm. Eating too many cold or raw foods can weaken digestion, which in turn affects nutrient absorption and ultimately skin health.

Wherever I can, my diet includes cooked vegetables, soups, stews and warm drinks, especially in cooler months, and I avoid cold and raw foods where possible. Supporting digestion helps the body build strong, healthy qi and blood, which is essential for vibrant skin.

Follow the CM body clock for rest and repair

Woman sleeping.
Sleep is essential, especially at the right time. Image: Canva

The timing of your sleep is just as important as the number of hours you get. The Chinese Medicine body clock shows us when different organs are most active. Sleep before 11 pm is important because that’s when yin – the nourishing aspect of the body responsible for producing fluids, oils and lubrication – is replenished.

Staying up too late can disrupt this process, leading to dull or tired-looking skin. I therefore try to sleep and wake in line with these natural rhythms so my body can restore itself properly overnight.

Have regular facial acupuncture

Woman getting facial acupuncture.
Facial acupuncture can help you achieve a bright complexion. Image: Cosmetic Acupuncture Melbourne

I practice what I preach. Facial acupuncture helps stimulate collagen, boosts blood flow and encourages lymphatic drainage for skin that looks brighter and healthier. Over time, it can soften fine lines, even out skin tone, keep facial muscles toned and relax tight muscles.

Because it works with the body’s own healing response, the results are natural and long-lasting. I have a treatment once a month, or more often when my skin is looking dull or dry.

Anti-ageing is not a quick fix, but rather a collection of consistent habits that support the body from the inside out and work in harmony with it.

Wellness and ageing are deeply connected. By combining Chinese Medicine principles with targeted skincare, you can keep your skin looking its best at every age.


Have you ever tried facial acupuncture? Tell us about it in the comments below.

  • I have never been sold on acupuncture, but there is a lot of good advice in this article. It is very important to minimise stress, eat a healthy diet and get enough sleep. Exercise is also very important and as a general rule exercising regularly helps with the stress levels too.


  • Im not so sure about acupuncture for me as I have a phobia of needles so it wouldnt sit very well with me and would actually cause me major stress.
    I love the idea of regular facials but my bank balance wouldnt be very happy at all. I am lucky to go once a year


  • I’ve never heard of facial acupuncture until now. I’m all for trying out new things and I love that it works with the body’s own healing response, ie making my skin work harder. I have a gua shua but have never used it as I’ve not really known how to. Might have to look into it. Great article!


  • I remember seeing someone use a Gua Sha on YouTube yonkies ago when I was a tween and being memorized by it. It’s one of my favourite tools to use on my face. It’s a nice part of my skin routine, and I also use it a few times a week. And these days, with a toddler in the house, I can’t possibly push myself to stay up even close to 11pm, so I’m good there haha. I’ve never had facial acupuncture before but am really curious to try it now. It sounds like it is incredible.


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