Facial massages have garnered a lot of hype from those seeking a sculpted look, but are they the best way to refresh the face? An alternative method - cupping - may offer unique benefits without the need for professional help.
Cupping continues to maintain its popularity almost a decade after it first captured mainstream attention in 2016.
The unique skin care technique is lauded by experts for its blood circulation benefits, using small cups to create suction.
It is claimed the lymphatic drainage benefits of the practice also reduce facial puffiness and stimulate collagen. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits.
Improved blood flow to the face can enhance the radiance of the skin
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Dr Neemisha Tailor, a practitioner at Dr Ducu Clinics, explained that when performed correctly, facial cupping can lead to immediate and long-term improvements in skin tone and texture.
How does cupping work?
The cupping technique involves using small cups placed on the skin of the face, creating suction that promotes blood flow to the area.
"The suction stimulates the circulation, which can help deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells, improving overall skin health," Dr Tailor told GB News.
Better blood flow also plays a key role in nourishing skin tissue.
However, Dr Tailor stressed that the technique must be performed properly to avoid injury, particularly in those with sensitive skin or specific conditions.
"It's always a good idea to consult a skin care professional or dermatologist if you have sensitive skin or specific skin conditions," she advised.
How does cupping affect skin appearance?
Facial cupping can benefit the skin's appearance in several ways, but Dr Tailor highlights radiance as the most notable benefit.
"Facial cupping can have several positive impacts on the appearance of the skin, primarily due to the improved circulation and stimulation of the skin's natural headline processes," the expert explained.
Further improvements may include reduced puffiness and smoother skin texture, added Dr Tailor.
She went on: "The increased blood circulation can promote collagen production, which helps to improve skin elasticity."
"Over time, this may lead to smoother, firmer skin with fewer lines and wrinkles."
Facial cupping may support lymphatic drainage
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Additionally, reduced puffiness is often most noticeable around the eyes and jawline due to improved lymphatic drainage.
"The lymphatic system is responsible for removing toxins, waste products, and excess fluids from the body, and stimulating it can help reduce puffiness, promote detoxification and improve overall skin appearance," noted Dr Tailor.
Over time, some users report fine lines and wrinkles, possibly due to muscle relaxation, which decreases repetitive facial expressions.
Dr Tailor explained: "Facial cupping can relax the facial muscles, reducing tension in areas that may contribute to frown lines or a tense appearance over time."
Although the practice has been around for decades, there is a lack of good-quality studies confirming its efficacy as a beauty treatment.
As a result, most claims about the benefits of cupping remain anecdotal rather than scientific.
