Frequently Asked Questions
Discover the answers to your frequently asked questions about our products and services.
I. What to Expect
II. What to Wear
III. How to Prepare
At Bask, our space was designed with your peace in mind.
Your session begins with a thoughtful intake led by Dr. Zavalee, focusing on your current signs and symptoms to tailor care to your evolving health needs.
During your session, you will enjoy the sounds of soothing spa music, the feel of plush, comfortable treatment chairs or tables, and the energy of gentle needling providing powerful holistic healing.
Your treatment concludes with a warm cup of our handcrafted Bask tea, inviting you to ground, reconnect, and ease gently back into your day until we see you again.
Bask patients have one less thing to worry about. At Bask you will enjoy our luxury spa wraps and robes and cozy slippers to wear during your treatment.
Your hair may be worn down, as it will be gently draped over the end of the table to allow for scalp gua sha.
If you are scheduled for a cosmetic treatment, we kindly ask that you arrive with a clean, makeup-free complexion. Even if your treatment is not cosmetic, Traditional Chinese Medicine uses signs from the face to determine diagnosis.
Prior to your session at Bask we ask that you be mindful of your body and your belly. The importance of arriving in the optimal state to your appointment should not be overlooked.
To ensure you get the most out of the medicine, remember to eat a light meal within 1-2 hours before your session and refrain from heavy exercise. Also, avoiding alcohol or caffeine is critical as both are dehydrating and disruptive to your body's systems related to rest and recovery.
Acupuncture FAQ’s
Acupuncture works by inserting very thin, hair-like needles into the body at specific points to stimulate your body’s own healing response. From an Eastern Chinese medical viewpoint, acupuncture is just one modality in an entire medical system developed in China on the study of the human body, mind, spirit, and nature all connected. Acupuncture balances the body’s Qi (vital life energy) a form of bioenergy that runs alongs the channels in our body. When there is Qi stagnation/blocks, it can show up as pain, illness, or imbalance.
From a biological standpoint, they trigger a release of neurotransmitters that activate sensory and block pain receptors, reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, stimulate trigger points in muscles and tissues to ease myofascial pain, and stimulate the nerves. Acupuncture has made waves in recent studies, and has been proven to work for over 3,000 years!
Not at all in the way most people imagine. At Bask, we use only the finest, hair-thin, single-use sterile needles, which are nothing like the needles you may have experienced at a doctor’s office. Most of our guests feel nothing at all or only the gentlest of sensations — perhaps a tiny, fleeting pinch or a soft tap — that lasts less than a second. Once the needles are gently placed, any initial sensation usually fades into a deep, soothing calm. Many describe a pleasant warmth, a subtle tingling, or a gentle heaviness that signals the body’s natural healing response awakening. Most guests are surprised by how profoundly relaxing the entire experience feels. Your comfort and peace of mind are our highest priority.
Acupuncture is extremely safe and gentle. Most guests experience no side effects at all — only deep relaxation and well-being. You may occasionally notice mild, temporary effects such as slight bruising, light tiredness, or a brief sense of warmth. These are normal signs your body is rebalancing and usually fade quickly. Serious side effects are very rare. Your safety and comfort are our top priority.
Every session at our luxury acupuncture spa is thoughtfully designed to honor your time while allowing you to fully unwind and receive the deepest benefits.
Initial Consultation & Treatment: 90 minutes. This includes a gentle, private discussion about your health goals, a full wellness assessment, and your first acupuncture treatment in our serene treatment room.
Follow-up Sessions: 60 minutes
These are beautifully focused on healing and deep relaxation, giving your body ample time to respond while you rest in complete comfort.
You’ll have time to settle in with calming tea, soft lighting, and soothing music before your treatment begins. After the needles are gently placed, many guests drift into a restorative rest that feels like a luxurious nap for the nervous system.
Yes, acupuncture is safe and highly supportive during pregnancy when performed by an experienced practitioner. We use gentle, pregnancy-safe techniques to help ease nausea, fatigue, back pain, anxiety, and prepare for labor. Treatments are carefully customized for each trimester, with your comfort and safety as our top priority. We recommend consulting your doctor or midwife for harmonious medicine. You and your baby will be in gentle, caring hands.
Yes, you are warmly welcome to receive just one treatment. A single session can feel wonderfully restorative — many of our guests experience immediate relief, deep relaxation, and a profound sense of calm after even one visit.
That said, because acupuncture is a gentle and natural form of medicine, its deepest benefits often unfold with a series of treatments or regular visits. Your body’s natural healing intelligence responds beautifully over time, much like tending to a garden — each session builds upon the last, encouraging balance, resilience, and lasting harmony from within.
Whether you choose one session as a beautiful act of self-care or return for a thoughtful series, your journey will always be guided at your own pace with the highest level of personalized care. Our role is simply to support you exactly where you are, creating space for your body to heal in the way and rhythm that feels right for you.
We do not accept insurance at this time, and we have thoughtfully chosen to remain a cash-only practice by design. This allows us to offer unhurried, highly personalized sessions focused entirely on your well-being — without the time constraints or limitations often dictated by insurance requirements. Every treatment is crafted with the luxury of time, attention, and flexibility you deserve.
That said, we are committed to making our care as accessible as possible. We offer beautifully structured packages and membership programs that provide meaningful savings while supporting consistent care for deeper, longer-lasting results. Many guests find these options not only more affordable than they expected, but also far more rewarding than sporadic insurance-covered visits.
Your investment in this work is an investment in your health, peace, and vitality — and we are here to make that experience as graceful and nurturing as possible. We would be delighted to welcome you and explore the best way to support you.
At Bask, we blend complementary modalities to create an even deeper, more luxurious healing experience tailored just for you. During your session, we may gently incorporate one or more of the following, always with your full consent and comfort in mind:
Cupping Therapy: Silicone or glass cups create a soothing suction that releases muscle tension, improves circulation, and draws out stagnation. Many guests describe it as a “reverse massage” that feels incredibly relaxing.
Gua Sha: A gentle scraping technique using a smooth jade or rose quartz tool to promote blood flow, reduce inflammation, and release tightness. It’s especially wonderful for the neck, shoulders, and back.
Moxibustion (Moxa): The warming of a pure herbal stick near specific acupuncture points. It brings a deeply nourishing warmth that feels like sunlight on the skin and helps strengthen your body’s energy.
Auricular (Ear) Therapy & Ear Seeds: Tiny seeds or crystals placed on the ear to extend the benefits of your treatment for days afterward. Perfect for stress, sleep, or cravings.
Tui Na & Therapeutic Massage: Gentle Chinese medical massage that complements the needles and helps the body integrate the treatment more fully.
Infrared Heat or Warming Lamp: Soft, therapeutic warmth that enhances circulation and deep relaxation while the needles are in place.
Facial Acupuncture & Cosmetic Enhancements: For those seeking a radiant glow, we can include facial points with gua sha and jade tools for a luxurious “acupuncture facial.”
.You will never feel overwhelmed — we move slowly, communicate clearly, and adjust everything so you remain in a state of deep calm and safety throughout.
Cosmetic Acupuncture FAQ’s
Cosmetic acupuncture, often referred to as a natural facelift or facial rejuvenation acupuncture, is a gentle, holistic approach that enhances your natural beauty from within — without surgery, fillers, or toxins.
Here’s how it beautifully works: It uses ultra-fine, sterile needles placed strategically not only on the face but also on the body to address the root causes of skin aging. By stimulating specific points, we:
increase local blood circulation and oxygenation to the skin, bringing a natural, healthy glow
Encourage the production of collagen and elastin, which help soften fine lines, improve firmness, and restore youthful resilience
Relax overactive facial muscles (similar to how Botox works, but naturally) while toning underused ones, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and sagging
Promote lymphatic drainage to reduce puffiness and brighten dull skin
Balance the body’s overall energy, as radiant skin often reflects inner harmony and vitality
Whether you want to soften crow’s feet, lift the brows, firm the jawline, or simply achieve that coveted “inner light” glow. We would be honored to help you rediscover and nurture your natural radiance.
There is no single answer, because your healing journey is as unique as you are. During your initial consultation, we will listen to your concerns and create a personalized treatment plan designed specifically for your body and goals. This plan includes a thoughtful recommendation on the number and frequency of sessions that will best support you.
Many people feel noticeable relief, deeper relaxation, or improved well-being after just 1 to 3 sessions.
For lasting results and meaningful change (especially with chronic concerns, stress, pain, or cosmetic goals), a series of 6 to 12 treatments is often ideal, usually spaced once or twice per week at the beginning.
Acupuncture is a gentle, cumulative therapy. Each session builds upon the last, encouraging your body’s natural intelligence to heal more deeply and hold those benefits longer.
It is recommended to complete the 6-8 week cosmetic acupuncture protocol depending on your goals. This is the minimum protocol to receive more permanent results. We also recommend adjunct modalities to prolong benefits of each session and beyond such as facial gua sha, face taping, lymphatic drainage, LED red light therapy, dry brushing, TCM diet, and herbal supplements.
Yes, facial rejuvenation acupuncture can be safe and wonderfully supportive during pregnancy especially when performed by a practitioner who specializes in prenatal care. We approach it with the utmost gentleness, care, and customization to ensure both you and your baby feel completely protected.
Facial acupuncture primarily uses delicate points on the face and head, which are generally well-tolerated. Many expectant mothers find it deeply relaxing and beneficial for reducing facial tension, improving circulation, easing puffiness, and supporting that natural pregnancy glow.
Important considerations we always honor: We are especially cautious in the first trimester, where we may recommend postponing facial rejuvenation or focusing only on very gentle, limited protocols.
In the second and third trimesters, a modified facial treatment is often possible — using fewer needles, lighter stimulation, and avoiding any supporting body points that could influence the uterus.
Every session is thoughtfully adapted to your trimester, energy levels, and comfort.
Your safety and peace of mind remain our highest priority. Before any treatment, we gently ask that you consult with your obstetrician or midwife for clearance.
We would be honored to create a safe, luxurious experience tailored just for you during this sacred time.
Yes, you can beautifully combine cosmetic acupuncture with these treatments — many of our guests do so with wonderful results — but timing and personalization are essential for the safest, most harmonious outcome. We always prioritize your safety and the integrity of your previous procedures.
Here’s how we thoughtfully approach it: After Botox: We recommend waiting at least 2–4 weeks after your injections. This allows the Botox to settle fully while preventing any potential movement of the product.
After Dermal Fillers: A waiting period of 4–6 weeks (or longer, depending on the area and type of filler) is ideal. This gives the filler time to integrate and reduces any risk of increased swelling or migration.
After Cosmetic Surgery (facelift, eyelid surgery, etc.): We typically wait 3–6 months or until you have full clearance from your surgeon. Once healed, cosmetic acupuncture can be a luxurious complement that supports skin healing, improves circulation, and helps maintain your results naturally.
Many guests find that cosmetic acupuncture helps prolong and enhance the natural glow from their other treatments while restoring vitality from within.
Herbal Medicine FAQ’s
Chinese herbal medicine is a deeply nurturing and time-honored companion to acupuncture. When thoughtfully prescribed, it gently supports your body from the inside. These are not one-size-fits-all remedies — they are elegant, precise combinations of herbs chosen to address your unique constitution and goals.
Herbal medicine can beautifully support a wide range of concerns, including: Stress, anxiety, and emotional balance
Sleep difficulties and restorative rest
Digestive harmony (bloating, irregularity, appetite changes)
Hormonal wellness and menstrual cycle support
Energy and resilience during times of fatigue
Skin clarity and radiance (from within)
Immune strength and seasonal wellness
Recovery from illness or gentle support during life transitions
Headaches, muscle tension, and overall comfort
Many guests find that combining herbs with their acupuncture sessions creates a more complete and lasting sense of well-being. The herbs continue working gently between visits, nourishing your body while you go about your daily life.
Taking your herbal medicine is designed to be a simple and gentle part of your daily self-care ritual. We will provide clear, personalized instructions tailored specifically to your formula and needs.
Here’s how it typically works: Most Common Forms We Prescribe: Granule Powders (most popular): Fine, concentrated herbal powder that dissolves easily in warm water.
Capsules or Pills: Convenient and tasteless option for those who prefer no flavor.
Custom Liquid Tinctures: Alcohol-free or low-alcohol extracts.
How to Take Your Herbs: Dosage: Usually 1–2 times per day, as written on your label. We keep it simple and easy to remember.
Method: For granules, dissolve the prescribed amount in a small cup of warm (not boiling) water. Sip it slowly like a soothing tea. You may add a touch of honey or a slice of ginger if the taste feels strong.
Timing: Most formulas are best taken on an empty stomach or between meals for optimal absorption, but we will adjust this based on your digestion and comfort.
Consistency: Taking your herbs at roughly the same times each day helps your body establish a gentle rhythm of healing.
What to Expect:The taste is often earthy, slightly bitter, or subtly sweet — a sign the herbs are working. Most guests get used to it within a few days and even begin to look forward to this quiet moment of nourishment. If the flavor is ever too strong, we can easily adjust the formula or switch you to capsules.
Storage & Freshness: Keep your herbs in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Granules and capsules stay fresh for many months.
Yes, we do offer telehealth appointments for herbal medicine consultations, making it convenient and graceful for you to receive support from the comfort of your home.
Once we know you and your constitution, virtual sessions work beautifully for adjusting formulas, addressing new concerns, or simply refilling your current prescription. These appointments are warm, unhurried, and deeply focused on your well-being.
During your telehealth visit, we’ll have a gentle conversation about how you’re feeling, any changes in your symptoms or lifestyle, and we’ll refine your herbal formula accordingly. Your custom herbs can then be shipped directly to your door with clear instructions.
We take the same level of care and attention in virtual sessions as we do in the spa — your safety, comfort, and results remain our highest priority. Telehealth is especially wonderful for busy professionals, new mothers, or anyone who prefers the ease of receiving care from home.
Yes! We have a service specifically for this called "Women's Health Herbal Medicine Consultation" located under our services tab in the herbal medicine section.
Other FAQ’s
IV. What is Moxabustion (moxa)?
V. What is Fire Cupping?
VI. What is Gua Sha?
Moxibustion, or “moxa” for short, is a beautiful and deeply warming therapy where a pure herbal herb called mugwort is gently burned near specific acupuncture points on the body.
It delivers a soothing, penetrating warmth that helps invigorate energy, improve circulation, reduce pain, and gently strengthen your body’s natural balance.
Many guests describe the sensation as comforting, like sunlight on the skin or a warm embrace from within.It is often used alongside acupuncture to create an even more nurturing and restorative experience.
Fire cupping is a soothing therapy where smooth glass cups are gently warmed with a brief flame to create a comfortable suction on the skin. This gentle vacuum draws circulation to the area, releases muscle tension, eases stiffness, and helps move stagnation. Many guests describe it as a deeply relaxing “reverse massage” that leaves them feeling lighter and looser.It pairs beautifully with acupuncture for enhanced relaxation and relief.
Gua Sha is a gentle, traditional scraping technique using a smooth jade or rose quartz tool on the skin. It softly releases muscle tension, improves blood flow, reduces puffiness, and promotes a healthy glow. On the face, it’s wonderfully lifting and sculpting; on the body, it eases tightness and stagnation.Many guests love how instantly refreshing and relaxing it feels. It pairs beautifully with acupuncture.
