Cupping Therapy

Cupping is an ancient therapy rooted in Chinese, Egyptian, and Middle Eastern medicine. It has been practiced for thousands of years, originally using hollowed-out animal horns to treat boils and venomous bites. Over time, materials evolved from bamboo to glass, silicone, and plastic.

Cupping involves placing cups on the skin to create a vacuum, either through heat (fire cupping) or vacuum suction. Placing on a cup causes the skin to rise and blood vessels to expand, promoting circulation.

There are different types of cupping:

Dry Cupping: is popular in the West and often combined with massage, known as massage or running cupping. It Involves no skin piercing.
Wet Cupping: Involves making small incisions in the skin before applying the cups, which is believed to result the same as bloodletting.
Needle Cupping: combines acupuncture with cupping, where needles are first inserted into the skin, then cups are applied to enhance pain relief and muscle relaxation.

Cupping can be performed on various body parts, including the back, chest, stomach, and buttocks, where muscles are more prominent. It has gained popularity worldwide, especially after celebrities and athletes, like swimmer Michael Phelps, showcased its effects during the 2016 Olympics. While cupping might be trendy today, it’s a time-honoured practice with a rich history of promoting health and well-being.

How Does Cupping Work? Cupping therapy involves placing cups on the skin to create suction, which helps improve blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and promote healing. The cups, made from materials like glass, ceramic, bamboo, or plastic, can be heated or use manual pumps to create the suction. This process pulls the skin upward, increasing circulation to the area. There are two main types of cupping: Dry Cupping: increases blood flow, promotes healing, and may remove toxins by drawing fluids to the treated area. Wet Cupping: is believed to help release inflammatory cells and natural pain relievers, enhancing the body’s immune response. The "pain-gate" theory suggests that the pressure from cupping stimulates nerve fibres, which can block pain signals to the brain, while the immune system theory proposes that cupping reduces inflammation and boosts the body’s defences. Though the exact biological mechanisms are not fully understood, cupping is believed to release stagnation, improve circulation, and support the body’s natural healing processes. Cupping is also used in cosmetic treatments to improve skin elasticity and stimulate collagen production. The temporary discoloration seen after cupping is due to broken blood vessels beneath the skin, similar to bruising, and is part of the body’s healing response.

What Can Cupping Treat?

Cupping therapy offers a versatile approach to addressing a variety of health concerns, promoting both physical healing and emotional well-being. Commonly treated conditions include:

Pain Relief: Effective for musculoskeletal injuries, including strains, sprains, back, neck, shoulder, and knee pain.
Inflammatory Conditions: Helps with arthritis, fibromyalgia, gout, and bursitis.
Respiratory Issues: Used for asthma, bronchitis, allergies, and congestion.
Skin Problems: Treats acne, eczema, and other skin conditions.
Nervous System Disorders: Assists with carpal tunnel, sciatica, and neuropathy.
Digestive Issues: Provides relief for IBS and IBD.
Headaches and Migraines: Reduces the frequency and severity of headaches.
Hypertension: May help lower blood pressure.
Fertility and Gynaecological Disorders: Supports reproductive health.
Mental Health: Can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Cosmetic Cupping

Cosmetic cupping targets skin and aesthetic concerns, offering benefits such as:

Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Stimulates collagen production for smoother skin.
Sagging Skin: Firms and tightens areas like the jawline and cheeks.
Acne and Scarring: Reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
Hyperpigmentation: Evens skin tone by enhancing circulation.
Puffiness and Dark Circles: Reduces fluid retention and improves blood flow.
Dry, Dull Skin: Boosts moisture retention and revitalizes the complexion.

Beyond the Face Cosmetic cupping can also be applied to the body for:

Cellulite Reduction: Improves circulation and breaks down fat.
Collagen Induction: Increases skin and muscle firmness.
Scar and Stretch Mark Reduction: Promotes healing and reduces visibility.
Hair Loss: Nourishes hair follicles and improves scalp circulation.

While cupping is widely used for these conditions, scientific evidence varies, and individual results may differ. However, many people find cupping beneficial for their specific health needs.

How Effective is Cupping and Cosmetic Cupping? Cupping therapy, including cosmetic cupping, has gained popularity for its potential benefits, though scientific evidence remains limited. Cupping may help manage various conditions like chronic pain, knee osteoarthritis, low back pain, neck pain, and herpes zoster. Some studies suggest it can provide relief, but the research quality is often low, and more rigorous studies are needed. Experts generally recommend cupping as a complementary therapy rather than a primary treatment. While some studies indicate potential benefits, the evidence is often inconclusive, and more high-quality research is necessary. Cupping is generally safe with minor side effects, but it should be used alongside conventional treatments, not as a replacement. I f you’re considering cupping, consult your doctor, and don’t stop any prescribed treatments without medical advice.

How Long Do the Effects Last? The duration of relief from cupping therapy varies depending on individual health conditions. Some may experience immediate improvement after a single session, while others might require multiple treatments for optimal results. For lasting benefits, a series of treatments is often recommended, with maintenance sessions every 6-8 weeks. Those with chronic conditions may benefit from monthly treatments. Cupping can be done once or twice a week, with skin typically returning to normal within 10 days. Wet cupping can be repeated every 4-8 weeks. Cosmetic Cupping: Duration of Effects Initial improvements in skin texture and tone are often noticeable immediately, with further enhancement in the following days to weeks as redness and swelling subside. Enhanced collagen and elastin production from cosmetic cupping can lead to long-lasting results, with benefits lasting up to 6-12 months. A typical treatment plan involves 4-6 sessions spaced two weeks apart initially, then extending to four weeks apart by the third session. For sustained results, maintenance sessions every 6-8 weeks are recommended, alongside a consistent skincare routine. Cosmetic treatments like cupping, Acupuncture, and Gua-Sha may cause temporary redness, bruising, or markings as part of the healing process. While results vary, many individuals achieve favourable outcomes.

Is Cupping Safe? Cupping is generally safe when performed by a trained professional. Cupping can be offered by massage therapists, acupuncturists, physical therapists, chiropractors, and doctors. While special certification isn’t always required, it's essential to choose a licensed and experienced professional. Avoid attempting cupping therapy at home. Without proper training, there's a risk of injury or complications. Cupping therapy is in an industry that is unregulated, and the level of training among practitioners can vary significantly. Unfortunately, some individuals are certified after completing short in-person or online courses with minimal practical training, such as a 1hour YouTube videos. These courses often provide only a superficial understanding of the treatment, anatomy and physiology and the precautions necessary for safe practice. When choosing a professional, it's important to ask about their qualifications. Inquire about where they trained, the level of their certification, the provider of their training, and the duration of their education. Ideally any cupping treatment should be a minimum of diploma level 2 with in-person teaching rather than purely online training. Keep in mind that the quality of practitioners varies. Not every practitioner with minimal training is unsafe, just as not every highly qualified practitioner is effective. The experience and skills of therapists can differ greatly based on their education and who trained them. In the UK, complementary, holistic, and beauty industries, including cosmetic treatments remain unregulated. This lack of regulation extends to the insurance companies that cover these practices, which can make treatments risky in some cases. However, the beauty industry is hopefully becoming more regulated in the future. The most common side effects include temporary redness, bruising, and mild discomfort at the treatment site, which typically resolve within a few days. Potential Risks: •Infection: To minimize the risk, ensure that your practitioner uses sterile equipment or disposable cups. •Burns: Rarely, burns can occur during fire cupping if the cups are overheated. •Bloodborne Diseases: There’s a risk of transmission if equipment is not properly sterilized between patients. •Skin Reactions: Avoid cupping if your skin is scraped, oozing, or infected. Cosmetic Cupping: When done by qualified professionals, cosmetic cupping is safe and effective. The most common side effects include temporary redness, bruising, and mild discomfort, which usually subside within a few days. Rare complications, like changes in skin pigmentation or scarring, can occur if the procedure isn't performed correctly. Follow post-procedure care instructions closely to support healing and achieve the best results.

Does It Hurt? Cupping and similar treatments are generally well-tolerated, but you may experience mild to moderate discomfort. Common sensations include a tightness or tingling feeling as the cups create suction. Some individuals might also feel warmth or heat, particularly over bony areas. Pain levels can vary depending on your sensitivity and pain threshold. Post-Treatment Sensitivity - After treatment, the skin may feel tender, similar to a mild sunburn, with possible redness and swelling that usually subsides within a few days. Cupping often leaves circular marks on the skin, ranging from light pink to dark purple, which typically fade within 1-21 days, this is called petechiae (small red spots), these may have mild to moderate discomfort within the first 12-24 hours. If you have any concerns, especially if you plan to wear open-backed clothing, discuss them with your practitioner before treatment. Cosmetic Procedures: Cosmetic procedures are designed to be as comfortable as possible. Minimal petechiae usually occurs but can happen. If you have concerns about discomfort, discuss them with your practitioner beforehand to ensure your comfort during the procedure.

What are the contraindications. reasons I can’t have treatment?

Is generally safe when performed by trained professionals. However, there are conditions that may not be suitable or need adaptions such as:

For cosmetic cupping only: recent skin fillers, Botox or other injectables into the treatment area.
Currently menstruating.
Active cancer or undergoing oncology treatments.
Low blood pressure.
Severe uncontrolled hypertension
Uncontrolled Epileptic and Seizure disorders.
Organ failure or recent organ donation.
Pacemaker fitted or history of cardiovascular disease.
Insulin-Dependent Diabetes.
Pregnancy or recent Childbirth.
a history of Haemorrhage or bleeding and clotting disorders.
Recent DVT, Embolism or thrombosis still requiring medication.
taking blood thinning, anticoagulant or clotting medication.
Active severe bruising, cuts or abrasions
Recent surgeries, procedures, injections, fractures or sprains.
Keloid tendency.
Moles, freckles, skin tags or other growths that change in size, shape or bleed
Uncontrolled or undiagnosed Skin Disorders such as: Psoriasis, Eczema, Dermatitis, Acne Vulgaris, Vitiligo, Rosacea, Chloasma.
Infectious skin diseases, such as: impetigo, shingles, Herpes Simplex, Ringworm, Scabies, Conjunctivitis, MRSA, Warts, Verrucae’s.

It is always important to consult with a qualified practitioner to determine if cupping is appropriate for your specific needs.

How to Prepare for your Appointment. Preparing for an appointment involves a few simple steps to ensure you get the most out of the treatment: Medications & Supplements:- Try to avoid taking Vitamin C, Vitamin A, NSAIDs and Aspirin or Blood thinning medications for at least 5 days prior to the appointment where possible. Skin Care:- Try to avoid using any Retinol, exfoliants, AHA acids, BHA acids, Vitamin C, or Vitamin A products on the treatment area for several days prior to the appointment. For Cosmetic Cupping please - Cleanse your skin thoroughly twice a day for 48 hours prior to the appointment. Remove all make up within 30 minutes of the appointment and ensure your face has been cleaned. Please don’t forget to apply any numbing agents if provided 1 hour prior to the appointment as advised. Stimulants:- Try to avoid Caffeine, Alcohol, or Nicotine for 12 hours before your session, as these can affect your body's response to the treatment. Fluids:- Drink plenty of water and try to stay hydrated, before your appointment. Being well-hydrated can help your body respond better to the treatment. Diet:- have a small, balanced meal or substantial meal about 1-2 hours before your appointment. This helps maintain your energy levels during the session. Avoid arriving with an empty stomach, as this can lead to dizziness or light-headedness. Attire:- Wear loose, comfortable or easily removable clothing that can be rolled up or removed to access treatment areas like your face, head, shoulders, neck, arms, entire legs, back or abdomen. Please tie up long hair or bring along a hairband to do so for access to the face, ear and neck vicinity. Punctuality:- please arrive on time, giving yourself enough time to arrive at your appointment without rushing will help you to reax. Please try not too early though as the clinic does NOT have any waiting area and space in the car park is limited. Consultation:- be prepared to discuss your health, medical history, current symptoms, medications, and any concerns you have with your practitioner. This information helps tailor the treatment to your specific needs. Please don’t forget to bring with you a full list of medications, medical conditions, any skin care routines or products used regularly, and any reading glasses required. Mindset:- Approach the session with an open mind and a calm attitude. Treatments works best when you're relaxed, so try to clear your mind and focus on your breathing during the treatment. Following these tips can help you be more prepared for your appointment aiding you to have a more positive, effective and relaxing treatment.

What to Expect During Treatment Before starting your treatment, you'll need to sign a consent form, acknowledging that you understand the procedure and its potential outcomes. This form confirms that you are aware the treatment may involve direct skin contact and that multiple sessions might be necessary to achieve the best results. It also clarifies that while the treatment aims for improvement, individual results may vary, and some cosmetic concerns may not be fully resolved. Your treatment begins with a brief consultation, typically lasting 10-20 minutes. During this time, your practitioner will assess your health, lifestyle, and specific concerns. This may include an examination of relevant areas and a review of your health history. The procedure will be explained in detail, including potential risks and complications. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns. It's important to note that while the cosmetic treatment aims to enhance your health or appearance, no guarantees are made regarding the outcome. Your practitioner will help set realistic expectations and may recommend additional sessions for optimal results. The Treatment Process: at the start of the treatment, you will lie down in a relaxed position, every effort will be made to make you comfortable, and any necessary clothing removal will be minimal and respectful. The practitioner will begin the treatment by sterilising the skin area and, if needed, apply a topical anaesthetic to minimize any discomfort. Once the area is prepared, the practitioner may apply cosmeceutical products such as Hyaluronic Acid, or oils like Tiger balm, Dit Jow Jow, Coconut or Aloe Vera, depending on your consultation. The treatment will begin with the application of cupping devices or other techniques tailored to your specific needs. For dry cupping, suction is applied to the skin for several minutes, sometimes combined with massage. Wet cupping involves a mild suction, followed by tiny cuts on the skin to draw out a small amount of blood. The number of cups used will depend on your treatment plan, with most sessions involving three to seven cups. For cosmetic cupping, silicone, conical dry cups are applied to the skin repeatedly in specialised techniques to achieve the desired outcomes. During the treatment, you may experience various sensations, including warmth, tingling, tightness or a sense of movement. These sensations are normal, but if you feel discomfort or pain, please inform the practitioner. Throughout the session, you're welcome to rest quietly or engage in conversation—whichever makes you feel most comfortable. To enhance the treatment's effectiveness, the practitioner may also incorporate additional techniques such as massage, Gua-Sha, acupuncture, electromagnetic energy impulses, or other heat-based therapies. Any adjunctive therapies will be discussed and agreed upon with you before the treatment begins. For cosmetic cupping after the treatment, cooling elements may be applied, followed by soothing serums or moisturizers to aid healing and support collagen production. After the session, take your time getting up, as you may feel lightheaded or dizzy. It’s important to reorient yourself gradually before stepping of the treatment couch. At the end of the appointment the practitioner may offer aftercare advice, before taking payment and arranging any further appointments.

What are the after-effects of Treatment? While generally a safe treatment for all age groups and the majority of people when administered by a qualified, insured, registered and experienced practitioner, treatments can still have after-effects. These effects are typically mild and temporary, but it's important to be aware of them. Common After-effects: Skin reactions:- there may be possible skin marking, reddening, Petechiae, rashes, darker patches, altered skin pigmentation, Lymphatic leakage, skin sensitivity, tightness, itching or altered skin sensation from the local vicinity of the treatment site that may persist for up to 14 days post treatment, taking up to 21 days to fully subside or disappear. During this time the skin may also be tender or sore and can have an elevated risk of infection, Keloid scarring or an increased susceptibility of Sunburns. Bruising:- where possible treatment is designed to minimize bruising but these can still occur. Occasionally, bleeding, swelling, bumps, inflammation or small bruises can appear at the treatment site. These are usually harmless and will fade within a few days but can sometimes be more severe in some people especially with anticoagulant usage or disposition to bleeding. In this event any of these occurring the use of a topical arnica lotion will help. Muscular Discomfort:- for some, it is very common to experience mild soreness, aching, tenderness or localized pain at the treatment site or in the body following a treatment. This may be similar to how a person feels after a hard day’s work or workout at a gym but can be more extreme as the body is trying to regulate following the treatment. This usually resolves within the 24-48 hours but may persist for 7-10 days. BP & Blood Glucose fluctuations:- patients often experience a lowering of their blood pressure, heart rates and blood glucose levels following treatments – this can leave people feeling slightly woozy, nauseous, light-headedness, or dizzy and may persist for a few hours following treatment, plenty of clear fluids and a light sugary snack will help with this. Energy & Fatigue:- It's not uncommon to feel tired or fatigued following a session. This is typically a sign that your body is responding to the treatment and beginning the healing process. Conversely, some people may feel a surge of energy following their session, which can last for several hours or even days. Short flu-like symptoms:- as the body rebalances itself it enters a detoxification period which can leave people experiencing 24-48 hours of flu-like symptoms – enlarged tender glands, achy bodies, Headaches, Sinus congestion, energy and temperature fluctuations, these are a good sign of your body responding to treatment. Its best to allow your body to rest during this timeframe and keep hydrated. Temporary Symptom Exacerbation:- In some cases, a person’s pre-existing medical conditions or symptoms may briefly worsen or flare before they improve. This is often seen as a sign that the treatment is taking effect and may require further treatment or adjusts to treatment to resolve. Digestion:- many do find treatment aids in their digestive systems, reducing bloating and aiding with appetite but can report issues with Nausea, Heartburn, passing wind more or changes in their usual toilet habits finding the consistency and frequency are often improved or altered, this can include having looser more often bowel movements that should subside within 48 hours. Sleep:- Many individuals find that their sleep improves after treatment, either by falling asleep more easily or experiencing deeper, more restful sleep. Equally, some people find following treatment their sleep is altered and more difficult, they often report changes in their dream patterns which can be more vivid and negative. Emotional Release:- Some people report an emotional release during or after treatment, which can manifest as unexpected feelings of sadness, tearfulness, despair, grief, anger, frustration, irritability, happiness, joy, mania, boredom or relief. This is a normal response to the body's energy balancing and the therapeutic aspects of touch especially where repressed emotions have been the source of disharmony in a person’s health. Most aftereffects of treatment are mild and resolve within a few days to weeks especially when following the aftercare. Although safe, sometimes more serious complications or after-effects can occur with this treatment. Rare But Serious Side-Effects - Severe Skin Reactions:- Persistent discoloration or altered pigmentation. Temporary or Permanent marking, Scarring or disfigurement. Keloid Scarring. Scalds. Burns. Infections such as Sepsis and Cellulitis can occur. Internal Complications:- Risks of serious complications such as: Movement of Blood Clots. Thrombosis. Embolism. Strokes. Haemorrhage. Kidney damage. Liver damage. Muscle, Nerve, or Tendon damage. Significant Allergic reaction such as Anaphylaxis. Neuro-physical reaction:- Fainting, Dizziness, Syncope, Shock, Hypoglycaemia, Severe Hypotensive Crisis, Tachycardia or alteration in body temperature. Please contact your practitioner or Healthcare provider as soon as possible if you experience any unusual or severe reactions especially within 12 hours post treatment or your symptoms are not showing signs of improvement 48 hours after the treatment.

Aftercare and Recovery

Following treatment, due to the delicate nature of the vasculature, particularly around the face, your skin can have visible bruising, redness, swelling or feel warm, sore or tight. These effects may last from 5 to 14 days, and some individuals may also experience fatigue and tenderness. To support your recovery and optimize the results of your treatment, please adhere to the following guidelines:

Apply an ice pack or a cooling aloe vera gel to the area for the first 24-48 hours.
Skin care: for facial treatments Avoid wearing makeup for the first 24 hours post-treatment and cleanse your skin daily using a water-based moisturizer to reduce redness.
Products: for facial treatment Apply daily sunblock with SPF 20 or higher daily for 14 days to prevent post-operative hyperpigmentation and maximise the skin outcome. Consider applying vitamin A or C serums daily for 30 days after treatment and avoid any harsh skincare products for 30 days post-treatment
Environment: Avoid hot baths, showers, saunas, sunbeds, or sunbathing for 24 hours after treatment to prevent skin damage. it’s vital to avoid direct sun exposure, or intensive sunlight exposure from solariums for 2 weeks or until the skin is fully healed.
Additional Treatments: Refrain from undergoing any other treatments for 48 hours to prevent potential interactions.
Hydration: Increase your water intake over the next 7 days to support detoxification. Herbal teas and fruit juices are also beneficial.
Caffeine and Alcohol: Reduce caffeine intake and avoid alcohol, energy drinks, and recreational drugs for 24 hours post-treatment and 12 hours prior.
Smoking and Vaping: Minimize or avoid smoking, vaping, and all nicotine products for 48 hours.
Activity Level: Avoid strenuous activities, heavy exercise, or long drives for 24 hours to allow your body to rest and recuperate.
Wellness: Try to reduce stress, maybe try light exercise, going for a walk, breathing or mediation to help.
Follow-Up Care: Adhere to any specific aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth recovery and achieve the best possible results from your treatment.

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