Effects of Face and Body Acupuncture on Glabellar Frown Lines in Women Aged 30-59: a Study Protocol for a Double-Arm Randomized Waitlist-Controlled Trial.

[IMPORTANCE] As average life expectancy increases, the role of beauty in quality of life (QOL) becomes more important. Invasive rejuvenation methods, such as cosmetic surgery and botulinum toxin injections, do not address the underlying causes of facial aging, are expensive, and carry inherent risks. Acupuncture, as a holistic alternative, may offer a safer method for facial rejuvenation by addressing the overall health of the body.

[OBJECTIVE] This study will evaluate the efficacy and safety of facial and body acupuncture in reducing frown lines in women aged 30-59 in Mashhad, Iran.

[DESIGN, SETTING, AND POPULATION] A total of 72 participants will be randomly allocated to intervention and control groups.

[EXPOSURES] The intervention group will receive 12 sessions of face and body acupuncture over six weeks, while the control group will receive no treatment.

[MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES] The primary outcome will be the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) assessed using standardized photographs. Secondary outcomes include the Subject Satisfaction Scale (SSS) and the QOL scores.

[RESULTS] Outcomes will be measured at three time points: baseline (week 0), posttreatment (week 7), and follow-up (week 12).

[CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE] The results of this trial will provide robust evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of acupuncture in reducing frown lines.