"Cupping therapy is the oldest and most widely used medical treatment in human history" - Raw Esthetics
Facial Cupping is going main stream, and we aren't mad about it. Cupping is popping up as a cosmetic treatment service at many Holistic Skin Studios and Spas, and for a good reason: it's beneficial for a thriving body. Not only is there a visible result, but the restorative and relaxation benefits are deeply nurturing to one's soul. But now, women are opting to learn proper facial cupping and take home cupping sets for private skin rituals they can do themselves.
What is Facial Cupping?
When applied to the face, gentle suction from silicone or glass cups is applied locally to the surface of the skin in an effort to increase blood flow and circulation to the tissues. Cupping can give skin the appearance of plumping and firming, among other benefits listed further on in this article. The cups are suctioned and pulled along lymphatic pathways, fine lines or adhesions... or "kissed" onto sections of the face, neck and chest. Facial cupping uses different techniques than body cupping and it's important to see a professional or learn proper technique.
Though cupping therapy in the cosmetic field is a relatively new practice, it's long and rich history shows evidence of it's effectiveness in healing the body.
above photo credit: Gretchen Newman, LMT, Skin Therapist and Reiki Master
History of Cupping Therapy
Ancient healers around the world, have practiced some mode of cupping therapy regularly as a medical tool; these healers knew that cupping was beneficial for healing the body and preventing disease. Hollowed out gourds, and later animal horns were used to create a vacuum in which to let out toxins and facilitate healing.
Fun Fact: Latin name for cupping, ‘cucurbitula’ is derived from gourds(Cucurbitaceae)
The exact origin of cupping therapy is debated, but has been depicted in Egyptian hieroglyphics, dating back to 1500BC. In the world's oldest medicinal book, "Ebers Papyrus", the text describes cupping therapy accelerating the healing process, treating conditions including fever, pain, vertigo, menstrual imbalances and more. The ancient Greek physician Hippocrates also compiled extensive descriptions of cupping and it's applications. Cupping therapy is a primary focus in traditional Chinese medicine, dating back as far as 1000 BC. It has been written about as a beneficial medicine by Taoist alchemist & herbalist, Ge Hong and Zhao Xuemin. Cupping therapy also spread from Arabic & Islam to Italy and greater Europe. Many diverse human civilizations across the world have contributed to the rich history and continuation of cupping therapy.
Benefits of Facial Cupping
Cupping Therapy Stimulates 4 different physiologies: lymphatic, vascular, nervous and muscular systems.
“Using the cups creates a lot of space between the soft tissue and skin, which allows blood flow, oxygen, and therefore leads to healing,” says Dr. Mahsa Ahmadi, DTCM, R.Ac., C, SMAC, who offers facial acupuncture and facial cupping at Collective Skin Care in Vancouver
- Enhance Circulation - both blood and lymphatic, the filtering system that detoxifies body and skin
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles with consistent use in combination with holistic skin care rituals
- Reduces Puffiness, moving fluid toward lymphatic points for elimination
- Reduces Inflammation and pathogens
- Promotes Lymphatic Drainage
- Reduces Muscle tension, including headaches and physical stress
- Clears Sinuses
- Enhances Collagen Production - stimulates collagen that keeps our skin taut
- Strengthens Elastin - what keeps skin elastic and firm
- Natural Lifting, Tones and Tightens Skin
"Cupping has become an essential part of my practice; I use it during both holistic facials and bodywork sessions. I find cupping to be such an incredible technique due to its versatility - it is gentle enough to facilitate relaxation, yet powerful in its ability to relieve deep muscular tension. I also think that cupping, along with gentle massage, is one of the most effective means of encouraging lymphatic drainage, which helps support the immune system and promotes a vibrant complexion." - Gretchen Newman, LMT of Rosaluna Welness
Contraindications of Facial Cupping
Refrain from cupping if you experience any of the following. If you are unsure, consult a medical professional or seek a professional practitioner for guidance:
- Active Acne Breakouts (only work around or under the active area such as neck or chest)
- Acute Inflammation
- Tumors
- Cancer
- Thrombosis
- Heart Disease
- Sick / Illness
- Rosacea
- Open Wounds
- Pacemaker
- Hemophelia
- Pregnancy
Cupping is wonderful for women with...
- Fine Lines
- Mature skin
- Sagging skin
- Loss of elasticity
- Puffiness
- Under eye circles
- Inflammation
- Acne
- Chronic sinus congestion
- Clogged pores & skin congestion
- Head or Neck Tension
- Stress
Before Getting Started
- Always first, deeply cleanse your skin with a Cleansing Oil and warm washcloth removal
- Apply a facial mist all over skin and press in, repeating if necessary
- Apply a moderate amount of low-comedogenic Oil or Oil-based serum to neck, chest and face.
- Movements should be slow and steady
- Apply at least 3 strokes for each area of the face
- Apply only light suction to avoid bruising and broken capillaries (facial cupping should not result in purpa like in body cupping)
- For best results, follow the ritual below 3x per week.
WATCH OUR NEW VIDEO DEMONSTRATION
with Holistic Esthetician, Ashley Green
How to Select Facial Cups:
For face, you have the option of simple silicone cups or silicone & glass cups.
SILICONE CUPS are usually flexible cone shapes which are easy to manipulate and require less skill, these are best for beginners.
GLASS CUPS like the sets we carry, are made from a medical grade glass tube attached to a silicone bulb. These take a bit more practice and hand strength to manipulate, but they are more aesthetically pleasing in my opinion. This style comes apart so you can wash and sanitize them.
Sizing
Glass cups usually come in 4 sizes
- 15mm - ideal for around eyes
- 25mm - ideal for larger sections of face and jaw
- 35mm - ideal for neck and chest
- 55mm - ideal for body
CLICK HERE TO SELECT A 4-PIECE GLASS CUPPING SET
Wilder North cannot be held responsible for any actions made, implied or expressed by anyone as a result of this guidance.
The above statements are for educational purposes only and have not been evaluated by the FDA. They are in no way intended to heal, prevent or treat any illness. Please consult your doctor if you are seeking medical advice.
The above content is the result of my own knowledge and research gleamed from the following resources, to whom we have no association:
References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/...
Dana Waldie, Licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist