About me

My journey with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) began in 2008 when I enrolled at ESMTC in Lisbon, a highly regarded TCM university. A few years later, I moved to London and continued my studies at the Northern College of Acupuncture (York), where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Acupuncture in 2014.

Over time, I became deeply fascinated by the relationship between health and beauty - how true radiance comes from within, reflecting our internal well-being. In 2015, I decided to specialise in cosmetic acupuncture at the Acuregen Academy, founded by Amanda Shayle, one of the world’s leading experts in the field. Soon after, I joined Acuregen’s clinical team, supporting patients, training courses, and representing the brand at industry events. My experience has taken me across the world - from assisting in international courses at Yo San University in Los Angeles to exhibiting at Beautyworld Middle East in Dubai with Acuregen.

I believe deeply in the potential of Chinese medicine and acupuncture to promote health and the role it can have in an integrated model of care.

My passion lies in helping women embrace their natural beauty, not by chasing unrealistic beauty standards but by supporting the skin from within, using the wisdom of Chinese medicine, acupuncture, and holistic skincare. Facial acupuncture is more than just a facial treatment - it’s a way to connect with yourself, honour your body’s rhythms, and cultivate long-term well-being.

This belief is what led to the creation of Misaki - a space where beauty and well-being come together, where you’re supported in feeling your best, naturally. From Japanese 美(mi) meaning “beautiful” and 咲 (saki) meaning “blossom”, Misaki is a reflection of my belief that every woman has the potential to blossom into her most healthy, radiant self.

I’d be honoured to be part of your journey.

I currently see patients in North London at Peak Performance in Whetstone (N20) and Body Matters in North Finchley (N12), as well as in Queens Park, at The Hearth (NW6) - all by appointment. I offer a free 15-minute consultation if you want to discuss any questions or concerns first - just drop me an email and we will take it from there.

Cosmetic Acupuncture

A natural and holistic approach to glowing skin without side effects

What it is

Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cosmetic Acupuncture is a natural and safe alternative compared to other invasive cosmetic procedures. It treats the body as a whole by addressing your overall health and well-being with a focus on facial rejuvenation to improve overall elasticity and complexion.

How it’s done

Tiny needles are placed on the face as well as other body areas such as arms or legs. These points are tailored to each person according to their present condition and treatment goal. By penetrating the skin’s barrier, its natural response is to repair itself and to do this it needs a very specific protein - enters collagen! The body can produce it its own, it just needs an extra push and the right directions.

Who’s it for

If you are someone who wants to address any signs of ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation or scarring to name a few, naturally and without the side effects or downtime that the alternatives offer - while enjoying the added benefits of acupuncture - this treatment might be just what you’re looking for. Wondering if you’re too young? Remember your mid-20s should be all about prevention!

Still got questions?

Check the FAQ section or just get in touch, I’ll be more than happy to help.

Treatment menu

When it comes to acupuncture, there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach

Your journey with me starts with a full medical consultation, through the lens of Chinese medicine, where we’ll be addressing a variety of topics from your general health to medical history to diet and lifestyle. If you’re coming for cosmetic acupuncture, the goal is to approach beauty and rejuvenation from the inside out in, support the body’s different needs and address any existing imbalances at the same time we work on the face, in order to achieve long lasting results. We’ll aim to increase circulation and cellular turnover, promote fibroblastic activity (hello collagen!), improve tone, elasticity and overall complexion.

Treatment packages are available upon request.

Acupuncture

from £70

Includes Consultation + diagnosis, acupuncture

Cosmetic facial acupuncture + LED light therapy

from £160

Includes Consultation + diagnosis, acupuncture, skincare and LED Light therapy

Gua Sha & LED Light therapy holistic facial

from £50

Includes Consultation + diagnosis, Gua Sha & acupressure, LED Light therapy, auricular therapy, organic clay mask

Medical Microneedling

(combined with acupuncture)

from £200

Book your treatment here

Frequently Asked Questions

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete medical system that not only treats, but also helps prevent a wide range of conditions. I offer treatments to support general wellbeing, digestive health, skin concerns, allergies, menstrual issues, emotional health, stress, and more.

In the “Book” section, you’ll find the full treatment menu along with prices.

Cosmetic facial acupuncture is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, as it stems from the same foundations as acupuncture. However, in the UK, it’s possible to attend a Cosmetic Acupuncture course without completing a degree-level TCM qualification.

My advice? Always check your practitioner’s credentials and training, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. If you’re seeking acupuncture for more than just cosmetic reasons, it’s best to choose a fully trained TCM practitioner who can treat the whole body, not just the face.

What makes this treatment different from other facial rejuvenation methods is that it’s rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which sees the individual as a whole. Treatments are tailored to each person’s constitution - everything is taken into account: body and mind.

Cosmetic acupuncture doesn’t just focus on the face. The points used during treatment can help regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, boost circulation, support the immune system, and even calm the nervous system.

Take stress, for instance. You know how easy it is to frown when you’re overwhelmed? It’s no surprise we often see people with lines between their eyebrows - the well-known “elevens.” Over time, repeated expressions can contribute to fine lines and wrinkles. And we all know how stress affects more than just our mood - it impacts sleep, digestion, hormones, and skin.

That’s where acupuncture comes in. By supporting your emotional wellbeing, digestion, sleep, and more, cosmetic acupuncture treats beauty from the inside out - while also working locally on the face to enhance visible results. When you feel better, you look better.

Curious about the research behind it? You can explore more on the Evidence Based Acupuncture website.

That depends on what you’re hoping to achieve.

Are you looking to maintain your skin’s current glow and health? Or are you wanting to work on something more specific, like softening lines, fading pigmentation, improving scars, or supporting skin impacted by stress or hormonal changes?

We always go through this together in your first session. I’ll listen to your concerns, assess your skin, and suggest a treatment plan that matches your goals.

For general skin maintenance or prevention, many clients come in once a month or every few weeks. These sessions help keep the skin nourished, stimulated, and supported, like giving your skin a regular tune-up.

For more targeted concerns, I usually recommend a course of 6-12 sessions, ideally weekly. Why weekly? Because it allows us to support your skin through its natural renewal cycle. Rather than forcing quick changes, we’re accompanying your skin’s rhythm, building resilience, improving tone, and encouraging collagen production consistently, layer by layer.

Every treatment counts,whether you come in weekly or every so often. Think of each session as a deposit into your collagen bank. Even occasional treatments help nourish your skin, support circulation, and gently stimulate collagen over time. It’s all part of the bigger picture of caring for your skin from the inside out.

No matter what your goal is, consistency (in whatever form that takes) allows us to go deeper, helping the body rebalance from within, which directly impacts how your skin behaves and ages. That’s why a treatment plan matters, even if sessions are spaced out over time.

Not sure what’s right for you? I offer a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore your options and see if this is the right fit.

That depends on a few factors, your age, current skin condition, and lifestyle habits all play a role. Remember, your skin is an organ, and just like the rest of your body, it will respond in its unique way.

That said, most people notice a healthy, natural glow after their very first session, thanks to the boost in circulation and hydration. Skin often feels more plump, smooth, and refreshed, with an overall improvement in tone and texture.

With regular sessions, you may begin to notice improvements in:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Hyperpigmentation and uneven tone
  • Acne and acne scarring
  • Dry or dull skin
  • Dark circles and puffy eyes
  • Redness and inflammation
  • Skin sagging or loss of elasticity
  • Conditions like rosacea or eczema

To sum it up, cosmetic acupuncture can help:

  • Reduce or soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Lift and tone sagging muscles and skin
  • Reduce puffiness around the face, eyes, and jawline
  • Improve complexion and radiance through better blood flow
  • Brighten and even out skin tone, including sun pigmentation
  • Support healing and reduce the appearance of scarring and breakouts

As with everything in Chinese medicine, the results go deeper than just the surface. We’re not only working on the face, we’re supporting the whole system behind it.

Chinese medicine approaches inflammatory skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, or rosacea, in a unique and holistic way. Rather than just treating the symptoms, we look deeper to understand which systems and organs are out of balance.

The goal is to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and address the root cause of the issue. By restoring internal balance (homeostasis), we help the body create the right conditions for the skin to heal naturally, from the inside out.

Any side effects?

Cosmetic acupuncture is considered safe and gentle, with no downtime required - unlike many other facial rejuvenation methods.

During the summer months, it’s best to avoid direct, prolonged sun exposure after your session, and a good sunscreen should always be used. At your first consultation, I’ll share a detailed aftercare and treatment recommendation factsheet.

Although very rare, mild bruising can occur in certain areas of the face. I use specialised intradermal needles to minimise this risk, but if bruising does appear, it’s usually small, fades on its own, and can be covered with makeup. If you have a big event coming up, I recommend booking your session a few days in advance - just to be safe.

Now, there are a few other possible side effects…

  • A calmer mind and a deep sense of relaxation
  • Better digestion and reduced bloating
  • More energy and improved sleep quality

Ah! Got you for a second, didn’t I?

These are actually the kinds of side effects we love - because cosmetic acupuncture treats the whole person, not just the face. When we work with the body as a whole, everything benefits.

Yes, there are a few cases where cosmetic acupuncture is not recommended.

If you’re pregnant or actively trying to conceive, it’s best to wait until after pregnancy. Those with diabetes may bruise more easily, and cosmetic acupuncture is not advised for individuals with clotting disorders, pacemakers, HIV, or certain cardiovascular conditions.

Don’t worry - this will always be discussed before any treatment begins.

I also offer a free 10-minute phone consultation, where we can go over any contraindications and make sure this treatment is right for you before booking.

If you’ve recently had any cosmetic procedures done, we can discuss this over the phone. This includes surgical or non-surgical procedures, thread liftings, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, facials etc.

For fillers/ Botox, for example, I generally recommend waiting between 6 to 8 weeks before booking a treatment.

Microneedling, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), often referred to as a dermaroller treatment, is a treatment designed to stimulate the skin’s natural healing response and boost collagen production.

I offer microneedling as part of a treatment plan for existing patients. What makes my approach unique is that it’s supported by tailored acupuncture points - whether ear, body, or facial - for a truly holistic experience that works with your whole system, not just your skin.

I believe in slow, natural nurture for long-lasting beauty. There’s a lot of misinformation out there. Dermarollers are sometimes reused in certain settings (not good!), and patients are often left with overly sensitised or damaged skin. There’s simply no reason - or research - to justify over-traumatising the skin like that. Sometimes, less really is more.

That’s why I don’t offer microneedling to new patients. First, I want to assess how your skin and body respond to treatment. Gradually increasing the intensity - whether it’s the number of needles or the treatment zones - helps ensure we don’t overwhelm your system. And remember: stress is not a friend of the healing process.

Once you’ve experienced cosmetic acupuncture on its own, both you and your skin will be much more prepared. Your microneedling session will be deeply supported with peptide-infused masks and/or serums to promote healing, hydration, and the growth of fresh new collagen.

No. I only use high-quality, single-use disposable needles. The same goes for dermarollers used in the clinic - they’re never reused and are safely disposed of after each treatment. Hygiene and safety are always a top priority.

Is there anything I need to do to prepare for a treatment? Do I need to remove makeup?

If you’re coming in for cosmetic acupuncture, arriving with a bare face is ideal - but no stress if you’re wearing light makeup. Just try to avoid heavy or waterproof products. I always begin with a cleanse and tone, so you’re in good hands.

If you feel a cold sore coming on (that classic tingling sensation), let me know beforehand. We’ll avoid too much facial needling in that area, but still support your immune system through acupuncture.

For all other treatments, here are a few tips to help you feel comfortable and get the most out of your session:

  • Acupuncture points may include the arms, hands, legs, back, or tummy - so wearing loose, comfortable clothing is always a good idea.
  • Try to avoid alcohol the night before, as this can help reduce the risk of bruising.
  • Make sure you’ve had a light meal or snack about an hour before your appointment - acupuncture on an empty stomach isn’t ideal.

Whether you’re coming for cosmetic or general acupuncture, your comfort and care are always my priority. 😊

After your session, the most important thing you can do is tune in to how you feel.

Ask yourself:
Do I need to take it easy today? Go to bed early? Am I feeling creative and energised, or do I want to stay in and read a book?

The body is wise. Even though you may not realise it, a lot is happening during your acupuncture session. You might feel deeply relaxed, a little spacey, or super energised - all of which are completely normal responses.

This is especially common after a first session. Acupuncture helps the body shift from “fight or flight” (sympathetic mode) into “rest and digest” (parasympathetic mode). For those constantly on the go, this can reveal just how tired the body truly is.

If you’ve had cosmetic acupuncture or microneedling, please read the following care tips:

Post-treatment skin care:

  • Use tepid water to cleanse your face for the first 24–48 hours and gently pat dry with clean hands, avoid rubbing.
  • Let your skin breathe. Avoid conventional makeup for at least 12–24 hours. Mineral makeup (e.g. Jane Iredale) is fine, just use a clean or new brush.
  • Use products with airless pumps rather than pots to reduce bacterial contamination, especially on freshly treated skin.
  • Avoid strong active ingredients such as acids, retinols, and peels for at least 1–2 weeks post-treatment.
  • Check your cosmetic products for parabens, petrochemicals, and phthalates, your skin absorbs more than usual after treatment, so cleaner is better.
  • Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 daily throughout your treatment course and avoid prolonged sun exposure in the first week post-treatment. Sun protection remains essential beyond this period, too.

Microneedling-specific notes:

Microneedling is a low-risk procedure, especially with my gentle approach, but it’s normal for the skin to appear pink or red for a few hours post-treatment. You may also feel a bit tight, warm, or itchy. These effects typically resolve within 24-72 hours.

To soothe the skin:

  • Apply organic aloe vera gel (patch test first)
  • Try Acuregen Rebalancing Gel or Puriskin (Green or Pink)
  • You can also use hyaluronic acid to hydrate and support collagen production

Avoid for 48-72 hours:

  • Swimming pools
  • Saunas and steam rooms
  • Intense workouts or activities that cause heavy sweating
  • Exfoliating skincare (AHAs, BHAs, retinols, clay masks, etc.)
  • Any other professional facial treatments until the skin is fully healed

Scalp Microneedling Aftercare:

Recommended products:

  • Cebelia Soothing Lotion for Scalp – apply once daily or as needed until fully healed (usually 48–72 hours)
  • CLINICCARE Sun Shield Cream SPF 30+ – wear daily for at least 1 week post-treatment
  • Optional support products: Cebelia Anti-Hair Loss Lotion, Amalian Hair Booster, CLINICCARE Energiising Shampoo & Conditioner (use 2x/week)

What to avoid:

  • Touching the scalp for 24 hours - the microchannels are delicate and prone to infection
  • Harsh shampoos or styling products for 24-48 hours
  • Direct sun exposure - wear a hat or apply SPF 30+ daily

Hydration tip:
Keep the scalp moisturised using light, non-clogging products (e.g. Cebelia Soothing Lotion) to prevent dryness as the skin heals.

LED (Light Emitting Diode) phototherapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses light energy to support cellular repair and regeneration. Based on NASA research, it’s well known for its healing, anti-inflammatory, and rejuvenating effects, and has applications across a wide range of medical and skincare fields.

The treatment delivers blue, red, and near-infrared light simultaneously. Each wavelength targets different layers of the skin and is absorbed by specific molecules, triggering natural cellular processes like collagen production, inflammation reduction, and tissue repair.

LED therapy pairs beautifully with cosmetic acupuncture as it helps reprogram the skin’s ability to adapt to ageing, enhances barrier function, and supports deep healing, making your results go even further.

Some of the benefits of LED light therapy include:

  • Increased circulation and oxygenation
  • Accelerated wound and tissue healing
  • Stimulated collagen and elastin production
  • Reduced fine lines, wrinkles, and inflammation
  • Improved skin tone, texture, and clarity
  • Kills acne-causing bacteria
  • Eases muscle and joint pain, stiffness, and spasm

Safe, gentle, and deeply restorative - this therapy works with your body, not against it.

Specific wavelengths of light, when properly absorbed by the body, can help up-regulate compromised or underperforming cells. The light energy (photons) is absorbed by photo-acceptors in the mitochondria - the “powerhouse” of the cell - where it helps generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate). ATP is the energy currency of the cell, and this boost in energy supports a wide range of cellular activities that lead to repair, regeneration, and restoration of healthy tissue.

As highlighted in the article Therapeutic Light by Chukuka S. Enwemeka, PT, PhD, FACSM, the effects of LED light go beyond skin-deep. The therapy has been shown to:

  • Modulate prostaglandin levels (which are involved in inflammation)
  • Improve nerve conduction and somatosensory responses
  • Increase blood flow (hyperaemia) to the treated tissues

These mechanisms help explain why LED light therapy is not only used for skin health and anti-ageing but also for a wide range of therapeutic purposes, including:

  • Pain relief in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, bursitis, arthritis, TMJ dysfunction, and neck or shoulder pain
  • Tissue repair in diabetic ulcers, venous ulcers, mouth ulcers, ligament tears, cartilage damage, nerve injuries, and even fractures

In short: LED light doesn’t just improve how your skin looks - it supports how your body heals. That’s why it’s such a powerful complement to cosmetic acupuncture and other holistic treatments.

Can I purchase a Gift Card?

Yes! Online gift cards are available and can be purchased here. Once payment is processed, you’ll receive a confirmation email within 1 hour. Gift cards are valid for 6 months from the date of purchase and are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. For details about cancellations, please see the question above.

If you’re buying a gift card for someone else, the confirmation will be sent to your email, while the recipient will receive the gift card directly in their inbox.

Having trouble locating the email? Be sure to check your spam or junk folder. If you still need help, feel free to reach out - I’ll be happy to assist.

All online bookings require full pre-payment at the time of booking.

There is a 48-hour cancellation policy in place. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the appointment will incur a non-refundable fee of £50. To avoid this charge, please provide at least 48 hours’ notice by email, call, or text.

If an appointment is missed entirely (no-show), the full session fee will be charged.

Cancellations made with 48 hours’ notice or more can either be refunded in full or rescheduled (subject to availability).

Additional Notes:

  • Treatments and packages are not redeemable for cash.
  • Treatment packages are non-refundable and must be used within 6 months of the purchase date.

What people are saying

I really recommend it to everybody who wants to get rid of wrinkles in a natural way. The results are amazing! My skin looks relaxed and smooth. Thanks so much Sara.

Susana Yamamoto, UK

I don’t even know why I was so nervous in the first place. This was amazing. And I feel extremely relaxed.

Raquel Pinto, PT

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