What is Facial Cupping?

Facial cupping is a practice that involves using small, specially designed cups to create suction on the skin of the face. This technique has roots in traditional Chinese medicine and has gained popularity in recent years as a non-invasive method for promoting skin health and rejuvenation.

During a facial cupping session, the cups are typically made of silicone or glass and come in various sizes to target different areas of the face. The cups are applied to the skin after a lubricant, such as oil or moisturizer, is applied to reduce friction. The practitioner then uses a suction device to create a vacuum inside the cup, which causes the skin to be gently drawn upwards into the cup.

How does facial Cupping 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 microtrauma and tearing. This triggers an inflammatory response, flooding the area with white blood cells, platelets, and other healing aids.

What are the benefits of facial cupping?

  • Increased circulation: The suction can help to stimulate blood flow to the skin, which may promote collagen production and improve overall skin tone and texture.
  • Lymphatic drainage: Facial cupping may help to improve lymphatic drainage, which can reduce puffiness and fluid retention in the face.
  • Relaxation of facial muscles: The gentle pulling action of the cups can help to relax tense facial muscles, which may reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
  • Detoxification: Some proponents of facial cupping believe that the suction can help to draw toxins and impurities out of the skin, leaving it looking clearer and more radiant.

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
Young woman receiving facial cupping