Cupping is an alternative therapy that uses suction cups to stimulate your skin and muscles. It can be done on your face or body.
The suction promotes increased blood circulation, which helps relieve muscle tension, promote cell repair, and aid in other regeneration.
When blood pressure increases on the stratum corneum (the most superficial portion of the epidermis or skin level), new blood vessels are created and the effects of topical collagen cream applications are increased 10 fold thereby producing cellular regeneration.
The cupping system is unique: integrating the maximum benefits of new blood vessel creation and collagen applications so as to provide maximum structural support to tissues and increased cellular regeneration.
Is Anti-Wrinkle facial cupping the same as body cupping?
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.
Body cupping, on the other hand, is primarily used to alleviate aches and pains.
Temporary 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 buildup. These marks fade as your lymphatic system processes the waste.
How does Anti-Wrinkle 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. Collagen applications are immediately applied after cupping providing a rich, deep penetration.
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 Anti-Wrinkle facial cupping ?
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 designed 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. Experts say that discoloration can occur in as little as five seconds, so make sure you keep the cup moving and follow instructions.
Are there any other side effects or risks?
Although facial cupping is generally considered safe – rare, minor side effects are possible. They typically occur during or immediately after the treatment.
You may experience temporary:
- dizziness
- lightheadedness
- nausea
- cold sweats
Experts advise against using facial cupping on broken or inflamed skin. This includes active breakouts, rashes, and sores.
Can you use Anti-Wrinkle facial cups at home?
You will receive instructions on how to best use the cupping method.
How do I get started?
There are a variety of different cupping kits you can use. Some cups are made from hard plastics, while others are soft and gel-like. Both can be equally effective, so it’s ultimately up to your personal preference.
You should always follow the directions on your cupping kit.
General guidelines suggest these steps:
- Wash your face and gently pat dry.
- Lightly massage your face with your hands to release preliminary tension.
- Although face oils are optional, applying a light layer to your skin may help decrease your risk of bruising as you move the cups.
- Start by applying a small cup to your chin and around your mouth. Leave the cup in place for few seconds and then move upward to a new area.
- Swap smaller cups for larger cups as needed, like when you get to your forehead.
- Continue until you have successfully cupped all desired areas.
- If you used a face oil, cleanse your face and pat dry. Otherwise, use a splash of warm water to reopen your pores.
- Continue with your beauty or skin care routine. Facial cupping is said to increase product absorption, so now’s the time to apply.
You may notice minor redness and irritation afterwards. This is normal and should subside within a few hours.
Experts recommend to cup at night so that any irritation that arises is gone by morning.
Mary – a regular client tells us how she uses cups – “I take showers just before bedtime,” she says. “Right after the shower, I put on a face serum and start cupping. If I need more glide, I add a face oil. My cups are only used by me, so afterwards I just wash them with soap and water.”
Smaller cups work best on sensitive areas, including under your eyes and eyebrows, along your nose and T-zone, and around your mouth. Larger cups work best on larger areas of skin, such as your forehead, cheeks, and along your jaw.