A targeted plumping facial massage, worked through the areas that hold tension — jaw, forehead and brow — with attention to circulation and lymphatic flow. It's hands-on work that needling alone doesn't do, and it's the reason this treatment feels considerably more relaxing than the 60-minute version.

If you clench or grind, carry tension in your brow, or notice puffiness through the face, the extra ten minutes is the part you'll feel most. If you're primarily interested in the needling itself, Essential covers it. There's no wrong choice — you can move between them appointment to appointment.

Occasionally. The needles are very fine, but the face is vascular and small bruises can happen, most often around the eyes. They're usually minor and settle within a few days. The massage is worked around any sensitive areas. If you have an event coming up, say so when you book.

A slip is needed for the massage, and what's used is chosen for your skin — nothing heavy, no fragrance and no actives during treatment. If your skin is reactive, tell us at the assessment and it's adjusted.

It varies with your skin, your age and what you're working towards. Cosmetic acupuncture is usually approached as a course over several weeks, followed by less frequent maintenance. That plan is discussed at your first appointment rather than sold to you upfront.

The needles are very fine — considerably finer than those used for injections or blood tests. Most people describe a brief prick, then a dull ache or a feeling of warmth. The massage that follows is firm but comfortable, and pressure is adjusted to you. If you're needle-averse, say so at your assessment.