When Dr. Laurie Mallis, a physician and licensed acupuncturist, announced her plan to open a holistic medical practice, people began asking her whether she would offer cosmetic acupuncture. “To be honest, I didn’t even know what it was,” she says. “So I started doing some research. I learned that most of the cosmetic acupuncture treatments that were being done were dealing with just the superficial issues of the skin. But as a medical physician, I wanted to be able to offer my patients a deeper treatment that not only improved their appearance but also improved their underlying health and well-being.”

Then Mallis discovered the Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture System, based on traditional Chinese medicine. She knew it was the right fit for her practice, SearchLight Medical.

“Mei Zen improves health and energy as it helps turn back the clock,” she says. “It’s an exciting alternative to plastic surgery and potentially unhealthy ‘noninvasive’ techniques. The state of physical health, emotions and spirit is reflected on the skin, particularly on the skin of the face. You look your best when your inner health shines through.”

Mei Zen uses an ancient, superficial needling technique designed to increase qi and blood to the face and improve or increase the production of collagen and elastin, she says. Among the reported benefits are the reduced appearance of lines and wrinkles, better skin tone and a firmer jawline, as well as general health benefits such as reduced insomnia, hot flashes, depression and anxiety.

“Acupuncture point selections on the body are also used to complete the balancing of energy, resulting in an overall rejuvenation of body, mind and spirit,” Mallis says. “In keeping with that holistic approach, I always evaluate the patient’s diet, lifestyle and skin care along with a Mei Zen treatment.”

SearchLight Medical is located at 2424 Rte. 52, Hopewell Junction, NY. For more info, call 845.592.4310 or visit SearchLightMedical.com.