Facial Cupping Therapy

Cupping therapy is an ancient form of alternative medicine. Cupping is used in more than 60 countries.^[1] Its usage dates back to as far as 1,550 B.C.^[2] There are different forms of cupping; the most common are dry, wet, and fire cupping. Cups are applied onto the skin and suction is created, pulling the skin up. It is meant to increase blood flow to certain areas to the body. ^[3] Not part of medical practice in modern era, cupping has been characterized as a pseudoscience.^[4] There is no good evidence it has any health benefits, and there are some risks of harm, especially in case of wet and fire cupping.^[5]

Traditional Chinese medicine

According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), cupping is done to dispel stagnation (stagnant blood and lymph), thereby improving qi flow,^[27] in order to treat respiratory diseases such as the common cold, pneumonia and bronchitis. Cupping also is used on back, neck, shoulder and other musculoskeletal conditions. Its advocates claim it has other applications as well.^[27] Cupping is not advised, in TCM, over skin ulcers or to the abdominal or sacral regions of pregnant women.^[28]

Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/facial-cupping#how-to

Is facial cupping the same as body cupping?

Yes and no. Although they’re based on the same principle of restoration, facial and body cupping are executed differently.

Facial cups are typically smaller and softer. They’re used to gently pull the skin away from deeper layers of fascia. This increases blood flow to the area and rejuvenates the skin without leaving cup marks behind.

“Over time this practice improves the complexion and diminishes fine lines and wrinkles,” says Emily Reese, LAc, of Reese Acupuncture.

Body cupping, on the other hand, is primarily used to alleviate aches and pains.

Cup marks are almost always left behind, but they do serve a diagnostic purpose; the size, shape, and color are said to reflect the amount of “stagnation” or cellular waste build-up. These marks fade as your lymphatic system processes the waste.

How does it work?

The suction effect pulls blood into the area of skin underneath the cup. This saturates the surrounding tissue with fresh blood and promotes new blood vessel formation.

Cupping also promotes sterile inflammation. Sterile inflammation is a form of pathogen-free trauma. With cupping, it results from mechanical trauma.

The vacuum-like suction separates different layers of tissues, resulting in micro trauma and tearing. This triggers an inflammatory response, flooding the area with white blood cells, platelets, and other healing mechanisms involved in collagen and elastin production.

What are the benefits?

Facial cupping has been shown to:

• Increase oxygen-rich blood circulation
• Strengthen skin and connective tissues
• Stimulate cells responsible for collagen production
• Relax muscle tension

Because of this, the practice is said to:Brighten skin

• Minimize the appearance of scars, fine lines, and wrinkles
• Tone chin, jawline, neck, and décolletage
• Decrease puffiness
• Regulate oil production
• Improve nutrient delivery and product absorption

Will it leave bruises?

Facial cupping shouldn’t leave bruises. However, bruising can occur if the cup is left in the same place for too long. Reese says that discoloration can occur in as little as five seconds, so make sure you keep the cup moving.

Are there any other side effects or risks?

Although facial cupping is generally considered safe, minor side effects are possible. They typically occur during or immediately after the treatment.

You may experience temporary:

• Dizziness
• Light-headedness
• Nausea
• Cold sweats

In an email interview, Lana Farson, LAc and teacher at the Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine College, advised against using facial cupping on broken or inflamed skin. This includes active breakouts, rashes, and sores.

Can you use facial cups at home?

At-home cupping kits exist, but you may find it easier to relax under the care of a professional. This may allow for a more even application.

Seeing a professional also ensures that the proper technique is followed.

If you decide you want try cupping at home, ask your practitioner for guidance. They can answer any questions you may have and may be able to recommend a reputable at-home kit.

A word of caution: You may develop unwanted bruising while you refine your technique. It may also take longer to achieve your desired results.