You may not know what cupping is, but
chances are you saw the pictures of Michael Phelps’ large, bruise-like circles
on his back at the 2016 summer Olympics—the result of the Chinese medicine
treatment, which is often used to provide relief for pain, migraines, fatigue
and high blood pressure. Facial cupping, however, is a treatment all its own,
and when done right, it can make your skin glow. Here’s what we know.
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“Cupping uses small glass or silicone cups
to create negative pressure by stretching the skin and underlying tissue that
dilates capillaries,” says Dr. Elizabeth Trattner, holistic aesthetician and
cosmetic acupuncturist, noting that it feels like a gentle massage of sorts. “It
has been used for thousands of years on the body and the face to stimulate
tissue blood flow and the draining of lymph, which moves stagnant energy. By
bringing circulation of blood to the face, collagen and elastin production is
improved, which can soften the appearance of lines and wrinkles. It also
delivers an anti-inflammatory effect and can help with facial pain like trigeminal
neuralgia as well.”
Plus, you don’t have to worry about those
purple circles when it comes to facial cupping because, as Dr.
Trattner explains, the cups are always moving with the help of a serum, oil or
cream that facilitates movement rather than continuous suction in one spot. You
definitely don’t want to try cupping on dry skin. And just like any massage, remember
to drink water after a treatment to help flush the lymph.
Although cupping touts big benefits, New
York plastic surgeon and wellness expert Kenneth Rothaus, MD, says there is no
peer-reviewed scientific evidence to support any of its claims. “Even if
cupping has recognizable benefits, it is not for everyone,” he says. “If you are on
anticoagulants (blood thinners) or have a rash, an open wound or any skin
condition that results in skin fragility, you should not try cupping. The
treatment should be approached with some caution and tempered optimism.”
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Dr. Tratter says you should also avoid cupping if you have
inflamed skin or sunburn, or recently had fillers or neurotoxins (Botox) two
weeks prior. “It’s important to always seek care of a trained cosmetic
acupuncturist or aesthetician, as aggressive cupping over carotid arteries,
such as those in the neck and chest, may release blood clots.”
Both doctors note that facial cupping can be done as often
as three times a week—if attempting to DIY, it’s essential to learn the proper
technique. “At least once a month someone comes in to see me with a bruise on
their face from doing cupping at home themselves the wrong way. I advise
investing in a lesson where a qualified practitioner can help you address your
specific issues, rather than watching a video online.”
Source: DailyBeauty – A beauty blog powered by NewBeauty Magazine –