Cupping massage is an ancient form of massage that is becoming increasingly popular in the Netherlands and Belgium. It is now commonly used both in professional massage practices and at home. But what exactly is a cupping massage? When should you do a cupping massage, and what effects does it have? What types of cups are available? We tell you everything you need to know!
Table of Contents
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What is a cupping massage?
- Should I move the cups or not?
- Why do red circular marks appear?
- How did cupping massage originate?
- When should you do a cupping massage?
- What conditions can cupping massage help with?
- What are the benefits of cupping?
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What types of cupping cups are there?
- Silicone massage cups
- Anti-cellulite cupping cups
- Glass cupping cups with a bulb
- Fire cupping cups
- Cupping cups with a pump
- Facial cupping cups
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What types of cupping massages exist?
- Cellulite cupping massage
- Facial cupping massage
- Connective tissue cupping massage
- Leg cupping massage
- Back cupping massage
- Cupping massage for scars and stretch marks
- Wet cupping
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Tips for using cupping massage in your practice
- Choose the right cups
- Cleaning the cups
- What massage oil should I use for cupping massage?
- Tip for combining cupping with connective tissue massage
- What do you need for a cupping massage?
- Do I need to take a course?
- Risks of cupping
- Contraindications for cupping
What is a cupping massage?
A cupping massage is a type of massage that uses cups made of glass, silicone, or other materials. These cups are placed on the skin and suctioned to create a vacuum.
This vacuum can be created in various ways, such as using a pump. The vacuum effect lifts the skin and underlying connective tissue into the cup. This increases blood circulation in the treated area and helps release adhesions in the connective tissue.
Should I move the cups or not?
There are different ways to perform a cupping massage. You can leave the cups stationary on the skin, or you can move them while they remain vacuum-sealed. When using the moving technique, it is necessary to apply massage oil to the skin.
Why do red circular marks appear?
After a cupping massage, red circular marks often appear on the treated area, which may even turn blue. This happens because the vacuum effect intensifies blood circulation in that area. The severity and duration of the marks depend on the intensity and method of the cupping massage.
How did cupping massage originate?
Cupping massage is an ancient healing technique. As early as 3000 BC, cupping massages were performed in East Asia using heated cups that created suction when placed on the skin.
In the Middle East, cupping massage was also practiced, particularly in the form of wet cupping, where small cuts were made in the skin before applying suction to draw out "bad" blood.
Cupping was also used in medieval Europe, including the Netherlands, as part of bloodletting practices believed to help cure diseases.
Today, both dry cupping and wet cupping are performed. In this blog, we mainly focus on dry cupping, as it is the most commonly used method in the Netherlands.
When should you do a cupping massage?
A cupping massage can be a standalone treatment or incorporated into other massage techniques, such as sports massage, therapeutic massage, or connective tissue massage.
Cupping massage is commonly used to relieve pain and promote muscle recovery after exercise. The demand for cupping massage is growing, making it a valuable addition to any massage practice.
More and more people are also using cupping at home, particularly for reducing cellulite. We will discuss this in more detail later.
What conditions can cupping massage help with?
Cupping massage can be effective for a variety of conditions, including:
- Neck pain
- Headaches
- Shoulder pain
- Back pain
- Arm pain
- Muscle injuries
- Cellulite
- Adhesions in connective tissue
- Scar treatment (for older scars)
- Fibromyalgia
- Stretch marks
- Wrinkles
- Energy blockages
What are the benefits of cupping?
Cupping has a strong effect on the skin and connective tissue. It is also used to promote muscle recovery and to relieve energy blockages in holistic massage techniques.
Cupping massage significantly impacts connective tissue. Conditions caused by adhesions in the connective tissue can often be effectively treated with a series of cupping massages. For chronic or recurring issues, cupping can help break the cycle of pain and tension by loosening stiff connective tissue.
For muscle-related complaints, cupping can be beneficial because the vacuum effect strongly stimulates blood circulation in localized areas. This enhances the body's ability to remove waste products and supply nutrients, accelerating the healing process.
What types of cupping cups are there?
There are different types of cups used for cupping massage. Which cupping cup you should purchase depends on personal preference. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Below, we outline the different types of cupping cups.
Silicone massage cups
Silicone massage cups are widely used and are generally the preferred choice for beginners, as they are very easy to use. By squeezing the cup and placing it on the skin, a vacuum is created without the need for additional accessories.
Another advantage of silicone massage cups is that they are unbreakable. These cups are made of thick silicone material, which makes them durable. However, it is important to clean them properly to prevent them from becoming sticky. Additionally, silicone massage cups are significantly cheaper than glass cups.
Anti-cellulite massage cups
Anti-cellulite massage cups have a different shape than regular silicone cupping cups. An anti-cellulite cupping massage involves moving the vacuum-sealed cups over the skin. The unique design of these cups allows for a more intense vacuum effect. Additionally, they provide a firm grip, even when massage oil is applied.
Cupping for cellulite reduction is becoming increasingly popular for home use. To meet this demand, many manufacturers produce special anti-cellulite massage cups for home use. These are also made of silicone but tend to be softer and less durable than professional silicone anti-cellulite cups. These home-use cups often come in fun colors or playful shapes, such as pineapple-shaped cups or ones that look like little ghosts.
Glass cupping cups with a bulb
Glass cupping cups with a bulb work differently from silicone cups. By squeezing the bulb and placing the cup on the skin, a vacuum is created inside the cup.
Glass cupping cups with a bulb have a more luxurious appearance than silicone cups. Unlike the flexible silicone cups, glass cups are rigid. They also allow for a stronger vacuum compared to silicone cups, making them suitable for clients who are already familiar with cupping massage.
One disadvantage of glass cupping cups is that they are more fragile and can break if dropped. Additionally, hand-blown glass cupping cups with a bulb are more expensive than standard silicone massage cups.
Fire cupping cups
Fire cupping cups are made of glass but do not have a bulb to create suction. Instead, a vacuum is created using fire—typically by briefly placing a flame (such as an alcohol-soaked cotton ball) inside the cup before quickly positioning it on the skin.
The main difference between fire cupping and other cupping methods is that the cups become warm, providing additional heat to the skin. However, the intensity of the vacuum is difficult to control with this method. Fire cupping should only be performed by experienced practitioners.
Cupping cups with a pump
Cupping cups with a pump are usually made of rigid polycarbonate. Like glass cups, they maintain their shape, unlike the flexible silicone cups. These cups are placed on the skin, and a vacuum is created using the pump.
This method is not recommended for beginners, as it requires some prior knowledge or training. The advantage of polycarbonate cupping cups with a pump, compared to glass cups, is that they are unbreakable.
Facial cupping cups
Special cupping cups are available for the face. These cups are designed differently from standard cupping cups and are generally smaller in diameter.
The shape of these facial cupping cups ensures that the suction intensity is lower and more controlled, allowing for precise application. Since facial skin is more delicate and has a thinner layer of connective tissue, it is crucial to use special facial cupping cups.
Because the vacuum effect in these cups is gentler, red marks generally do not appear as they do with other types of cups.
The Vivoya Capri Cupping Set is an excellent choice for those looking for a professional facial cupping set. This set is specifically designed for the face and includes cups of various sizes for treating different areas. The cups are made of skin-friendly and safe silicone, making them durable and easy to clean. Additionally, the Vivoya Capri Cupping Set is simple to use and comes with a handy guide. The cups are small and lightweight, making them ideal for travel.
What types of cupping massages exist?
There are different types of cupping massages. A major distinction is between dry cupping and wet cupping. In wet cupping, small incisions are made in the skin before applying the cups. Additionally, cupping massages can be tailored for various purposes, such as cellulite reduction, facial treatments, or connective tissue therapy. It is also used for scars and stretch marks.
Cellulite cupping massage
Cellulite, also known as "orange peel skin," develops when fat cells accumulate in the subcutaneous connective tissue. This reduces blood circulation and causes waste products to build up, leading to the dimpled appearance of cellulite.
Cupping massage can help reduce cellulite, particularly when using the moving cupping method. By lifting the skin and improving blood circulation in the connective tissue, the appearance of cellulite is diminished.
Facial cupping massage
Facial cupping massage uses specially designed facial cups. These cups are shaped differently than standard cups, ensuring a gentler vacuum effect.
This type of cupping is commonly used to reduce wrinkles, improve skin texture, and deeply cleanse pores. As a result, facial cupping massage is increasingly being incorporated into beauty treatments.
Connective tissue cupping massage
Adhesions in connective tissue can cause various complaints, including pain and restricted movement.
Cupping massage can effectively treat long-term complaints by loosening the connective tissue, increasing blood circulation, and restoring normal function.
Leg cupping massage
Cupping massage is often applied to the legs for different purposes. Cellulite reduction is one common use, but cupping is also beneficial for muscle recovery and treating persistent muscle pain in areas such as the calves.
Back cupping massage
Cupping massage on the back can be used for two main purposes:
Targeting muscle tension – By increasing local blood circulation, muscles receive more oxygen and nutrients, promoting relaxation.
Stimulating reflex zones – The body's organs, bones, and muscles are connected to the spine via nerves. Chronic conditions can cause adhesions in the back’s connective tissue, which may prolong discomfort. Cupping helps release these adhesions, restoring balance and aiding recovery.
Cupping massage for scars and stretch marks
Cupping massage can also help reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks by stimulating blood flow in the affected areas. This enhances the skin’s natural healing process, making scars and stretch marks less visible over time.
However, it is important not to perform cupping on fresh scars—only on scars that have fully healed.
Wet cupping
All the techniques discussed so far fall under dry cupping. However, there is also wet cupping, which involves making small incisions in the skin before applying the cups.
One example of wet cupping is Hijama massage (Hijama means "suction" in Arabic). In this practice, blood is drawn out through the suctioned area. Some believe this helps remove "impure" or "bad" blood and may aid in treating certain conditions.
Tips for Using Cupping Massage in Your Practice
Would you like to incorporate cupping massage into your massage practice? Before getting started, we have compiled some useful tips to help you begin properly.
Choose the Right Cups
Above, we outlined the different types of cupping cups and their properties. If you are new to cupping massage, we recommend starting with silicone cups because they are easy to use.
If you also want to perform facial cupping, be sure to purchase specialized facial cupping cups. If you are a professional massage therapist looking for high-quality equipment, BellaBambi cups might be the right choice for you.
Cleaning the Cups
It is essential to clean your cupping cups properly after each use. This is not only important for hygiene but also helps prolong the lifespan of your cups.
The best way to clean cupping cups is with lukewarm water and a mild cleaning agent, such as dish soap. Allow them to air dry or use a clean, soft cloth.
Even though dry cupping only comes into contact with intact skin, it is still advisable to disinfect the cups after cleaning. If you use silicone or polycarbonate cups, be careful not to use alcohol-based disinfectants, as these can dry out the material. Do not put the cups in the dishwasher, as this can also damage the material.
If you maintain your cupping cups correctly, they will last a long time!
What Massage Oil Should I Use for Cupping Massage?
As mentioned earlier, cupping massage can be performed in two ways:
Stationary cupping – The cups are placed on the body and left in one position. In this case, you do not need massage oil.
Gliding cupping – The cups are moved across the skin while vacuum-sealed. For this method, massage oil is necessary.
The best choice is a natural massage oil. Choose an oil that aligns with the intended effect of the massage. For muscle relaxation, opt for a sports massage oil. For facial cupping massage, use a light, nourishing facial massage oil.
Tip: Combining Cupping with Connective Tissue Massage
If you plan to combine cupping massage with connective tissue massage, it is advisable to start with connective tissue massage.
Connective tissue massage is an intensive technique that is performed without massage oil. Cupping massage (when using the gliding technique) requires oil.
For practical reasons, it is best to begin with connective tissue massage and finish with cupping massage.
What Do You Need for a Cupping Massage?
To perform a cupping massage, you need several essential items:
Cupping cups – Choose the type that best suits your needs (silicone, glass, pump cups, etc.).
Accessories – Some cups require additional accessories, such as a pump.
Natural massage oil – Necessary for gliding cupping techniques.
A massage table – Ensures comfort for both you and your client.
Would you like more information on what you need for a professional massage practice? Read our detailed guide here.
Do I Need to Take a Cupping Massage Course?
If you are new to cupping massage, taking a course is highly recommended.
A cupping course will teach you the background and history of cupping.
You will also learn how to adjust the intensity of the vacuum to suit different clients.
To appear professional and ensure the safety of your clients, a cupping massage course is definitely advisable.
If you plan to use pump-style cupping cups, a course is essential, as these cups can create very strong suction, which must be carefully controlled.
Risks of Cupping
Cupping carries certain risks. The risks are greater with wet cupping, as the skin is punctured, which increases the risk of infection.
However, dry cupping also has some risks. If too much suction is applied, or if the same area is treated too frequently, tissue damage can occur.
Be cautious and ensure you fully understand the technique before performing cupping massage.
Contraindications for Cupping Massage
Cupping massage is not suitable for everyone. There are certain contraindications (situations in which cupping should not be performed).
If you enroll in a cupping massage course, you will learn about all the contraindications. Below are some examples:
- Fever
- Infectious diseases
- Use of blood thinners
- Pregnancy
- Blood disorders
- Varicose veins
If a client has any of these conditions, do not perform a cupping massage on them.
Final Thoughts
Cupping massage is rapidly gaining popularity. Due to increasing demand, adding cupping massage to your practicecan be a great way to expand your services!
Would you like help choosing the right cupping set for your practice?
Contact our customer service at +31 (0)162 788 133
Or send us an email at info@zengrowth.nl
We will be happy to assist you!
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