Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Welcome to our FAQ page. At Kuleana Holistic Health, we’re here to help you feel informed, comfortable, and empowered in your health journey. Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions we receive about our offerings.

Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture FAQ

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a holistic, time-tested system of medicine that’s been used for thousands of years. It includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, dietary therapy, and lifestyle guidance—all aimed at restoring balance in the body, mind, and spirit.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body to promote the smooth flow of Qi (energy), balance internal systems, and activate the body’s natural healing processes. It encourages circulation, reduces inflammation, regulates hormones, and calms the nervous system.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Most people feel little to no discomfort. The needles are very thin, about the width of a strand of hair. You might feel a slight pinch on insertion, followed by sensations like warmth, heaviness, or tingling—signs that the Qi is moving.

What can acupuncture help with?

Acupuncture can support a wide range of conditions, including:

• Pain (chronic and acute)

• Digestive issues

• Hormonal imbalances

• Anxiety and stress

• Sleep disorders

• Immune support

• Fertility and menstrual health

• Post-surgical recovery

• Stroke and neurological support

We tailor each session to your individual needs, using a whole-person approach.

Cupping & Gua Sha FAQ

What is cupping therapy?

Cupping is a form of bodywork that uses suction to improve circulation, release muscle tension, and support detoxification. The suction encourages blood flow to the area, which helps the body heal more efficiently. It can also help clear stagnation that leads to pain or inflammation.

Will cupping leave marks?

Yes, it may leave round discolorations that look like bruises, but they’re not painful. These marks typically fade in a few days and are a sign that stagnation has been moved.

What is gua sha?

Gua sha is a gentle scraping technique using a smooth-edged tool to release tension, move lymph, promote circulation, and clear stagnation. It’s commonly used on the neck, shoulders, and face, and can be deeply relaxing and detoxifying.

Cosmetic Acupuncture & Holistic Microneedling FAQ

What is cosmetic acupuncture?

Cosmetic acupuncture is a natural, holistic approach to facial rejuvenation. By stimulating specific acupuncture points on the face and body, we encourage collagen production, improve skin tone, reduce fine lines, and promote lymphatic circulation—all while addressing underlying imbalances that may be affecting your skin from within.

Unlike treatments that only focus on the surface, cosmetic acupuncture works both externally and internally, supporting your skin’s vitality and your overall well-being

Do you recommend a series of treatments?

Yes! For optimal, lasting results, we recommend a series of 10 weekly sessions to allow the skin time to build collagen and improve elasticity gradually. After that, monthly maintenance sessions help sustain the benefits.

How is cosmetic acupuncture different from Botox or fillers?

Cosmetic acupuncture enhances your natural beauty by stimulating the body’s own healing mechanisms. Instead of freezing muscles or injecting synthetic fillers, we promote collagen remodeling, elastin production, and improved circulation—leading to natural-looking, gradual, and long-lasting results.

What is holistic microneedling?

Microneedling uses tiny, controlled micro-injuries to activate the skin’s innate healing process. These micro-injuries signal fibroblasts—the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin—to repair the skin, resulting in firmer, smoother, and more radiant skin over time.

At Kuleana, we elevate this treatment with a holistic, integrative approach:

• We use stem cell-based growth factor serums derived from ethically sourced botanicals to enhance cellular repair and regeneration.

• Post-treatment care includes facial gua sha to support lymphatic flow, reduce redness, and speed recovery.

• We also provide guidance on herbal medicine and nutrition to address skin health from the inside out.

How often should I get microneedling?

For optimal results, we recommend spacing treatments at least 4–6 weeks apart. This allows the skin to fully heal and maximize collagen production between sessions. A series of 3–6 treatments is generally recommended depending on your goals.

What does microneedling help with?

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Acne scars and hyperpigmentation

• Uneven skin tone and texture

• Enlarged pores

• Loss of firmness and elasticitye

What makes Kuleana’s approach to microneedling unique?

While many microneedling treatments focus solely on cosmetic outcomes, we combine evidence-based skin therapies with Traditional Chinese Medicine principles. By supporting both internal and external health, we help you achieve results that not only look good—but feel good.

Infrared Sauna (Sunlighten) FAQ

What’s the difference between infrared saunas and traditional saunas?

Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air around you, infrared saunas use far, mid, and near-infrared wavelengths to warm your body from the inside out. This allows for a deeper, more therapeutic sweat at lower temperatures. Infrared waves penetrate tissues, muscles, and joints more deeply, supporting cellular detoxification and improving circulation

What are the benefits of infrared sauna therapy?

• Detoxification at a cellular level by promoting the removal of heavy metals, environmental toxins, and metabolic waste

• Relaxation and stress relief by encouraging parasympathetic nervous system activation

• Improved circulation and oxygenation of tissues

• Pain relief and muscle recovery by reducing inflammation and increasing blood flow

• Skin purification by stimulating collagen production and promoting a healthy glow

• Immune system support by gently increasing core body temperature, which mimics a mild fever response

How long is a typical sauna session?

Most sessions are 30–45 minutes. We recommend starting slowly and adjusting as your body acclimates to the infrared heat.

Is the Sunlighten sauna safe for everyone?

Infrared sauna is safe for most people, but if you’re pregnant, have certain cardiovascular conditions, or specific health concerns, please consult your healthcare provider or talk to us before booking.

What should I wear?

Most people wear light, breathable clothing, a swimsuit or just a towel. You’ll sweat—so comfort is key.

Ballancer Pro FAQ

What is the Ballancer Pro?

The Ballancer Pro is a state-of-the-art lymphatic drainage system using gentle, rhythmic compression. It works by stimulating the lymphatic system to move excess fluid and waste products out of the tissues and into the lymph nodes, where the body can process and eliminate them.

What does lymphatic drainage help with?

• Reducing swelling, puffiness, and bloating

• Supporting immune function by enhancing lymphatic circulation

• Promoting healthy blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues

• Easing post-travel swelling or recovery after surgery

• Boosting detoxification and metabolic waste removal

How does the lymphatic system work?

The lymphatic system is a vital part of your immune system that acts as your body’s drainage network, filtering out toxins, cellular waste, and pathogens. Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump—it relies on movement, breath, and therapies like lymphatic massage to keep things flowing.

Why combine infrared sauna with lymphatic drainage?

We recommend using the infrared sauna before your Ballancer Pro session. Why? The sauna promotes vasodilation (widening of the blood vessels), encourages a deep sweat, and mobilizes stored toxins from fat cells. Following this with lymphatic drainage enhances your body’s ability to transport and eliminate those mobilized toxins efficiently through the lymphatic system. It’s a powerful 1–2 combination for detoxification, reducing inflammation, and improving overall vitality.

Does it hurt?

Not at all. The sensation is like a gentle, hugging pressure that gradually moves from your feet up to your abdomen. Most people find it incredibly soothing and often nap during sessions.

How often should I use the Ballancer Pro?

For general wellness, once a week is great. For specific goals like post-operative care, detox, or athletic recovery, we may recommend 2–3 times per week for a series of sessions.

Can I combine the Ballancer Pro with sauna or acupuncture?

Absolutely. Many of our patients love combining these therapies for a full-body, inside-out approach to wellness.

Still have questions?

We’re here to help. Feel free to reach out or schedule a consultation to learn more about how we can support your health and well-being.