Cupping - Body & Facial
Cupping is a traditional therapy that uses suction to gently lift the skin and underlying superficial tissues. It has a long history across several cultures, including Chinese Medicine, Middle Eastern and other traditional healing systems, with documented use extending back thousands of years.
Traditionally, Chinese Medicine practitioners often created suction by briefly introducing heat into a glass cup before placing it on the skin—a technique commonly known as fire cupping.
At Willow Tree Acupuncture, we use modern vacuum cups. These allow the practitioner to create and carefully control the amount of suction without using a flame.
At Willow Tree Acupuncture, cupping is selected when clinically appropriate and tailored to each individual's needs and treatment goals.
❋ What to expect
One of the most recognisable features of cupping is the circular red, pink or purple marks that can sometimes remain after treatment.
These marks are caused by the suction affecting tiny blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. They are not an indication that “toxins” have been removed from the body, and darker marks don't necessarily mean there was a greater health problem in that area but can mean that a stagnating blood or a lack of circulation was in that area.
The marks are usually temporary and gradually fade over several days, although occasionally they can remain for longer.
❋ What does it feel like?
Most people describe cupping as a firm pulling, stretching or pressure sensation. The amount of suction can be adjusted throughout treatment to keep it comfortable.
Depending on the treatment, cups may remain stationary for several minutes or may be gently moved across lubricated skin in a technique sometimes called moving or sliding cupping.
Cupping is most commonly used to help with muscular tightness, tension, stiffness and musculoskeletal discomfort. The suction gently lifts the skin and superficial tissues, creating a different type of tissue stimulation from massage.
Cupping may be incorporated into treatment for:
Tight or tense muscles
Neck and shoulder tension
Upper and lower back discomfort
Muscle soreness and fatigue
Stiff or restricted-feeling areas
Post-exercise muscle recovery
Supporting local circulation
Relaxation and general wellbeing
❋ What is cupping used for?
What is Facial Cupping?
Facial cupping is a gentle form of cupping specifically designed for the delicate tissues of the face, jawline and neck. Small, soft cups create a light vacuum that gently lifts the skin and superficial tissues.
Unlike traditional body cupping, facial cups are usually kept moving across the skin rather than left stationary, using much lighter suction. The aim is not to produce the characteristic circular cupping marks or bruising associated with body cupping.
Willow Tree offers facial cupping in the facial rejuvenation , cosmetic acupuncture service.
What is Facial Cupping Used For?
Facial cupping may be used to:
Encourage local circulation to the skin
Help release facial and jaw muscle tension
Provide gentle soft-tissue stimulation
Support a fresh, healthy-looking complexion
Help with feelings of facial puffiness through gentle massage techniques
Complement treatment for the appearance of fine lines and signs of ageing
Promote relaxation