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Warming moxibustion depends on good communication about heat and skin. Here is what to mention beforehand and how to speak up during the session.

Heat needs a person-centred approach

Moxibustion uses the warmth of a burning herb, usually mugwort, held near or placed on the skin. Because heat is involved, the comfort and safety of the person on the couch come first. Good preparation means knowing what to report and how your skin will be checked along the way.

Details worth mentioning

Before your session, let Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, know about anything that might affect how you sense or tolerate warmth:

• numbness or reduced feeling, for example from diabetes or nerve problems;
• irritated, sunburnt, freshly waxed or recently treated skin;
• asthma, hay fever or a dislike of smoke and strong smells;
• pregnancy, or any medical condition you are unsure about.

If you have recently had a facial peel or other skin treatment, mention that too, since sensitive skin can respond differently to heat.

Speak up straight away

A comfortable plan includes permission to say something the moment warmth feels too strong. You do not need to wait politely until the end of the session. Agree on a simple word or signal beforehand, and Christine will adjust distance or stop.

Aftercare before you go

Ask what to do once you are home: whether to avoid hot showers, saunas or skin products for a while, and what kind of redness is expected. If a reaction appears that differs from what was explained, contact Christine rather than guessing.

Keep these instructions specific to your own situation. Advice from a video, a forum or a friend's experience may not reflect your skin, health history or the technique being used.

Clients who enjoy massage alongside other therapies can ask whether moxibustion will come before or after hands-on work, and why that order makes sense.

A short note on your phone listing any skin products used that week is an easy thing to share when you check in at the Lane Cove clinic.