Cupping therapy, an ancient practice, has seen a resurgence in popularity, often recognized by the distinctive circular marks it leaves on the skin. These red or purple discolorations are a natural and expected outcome of the treatment. The appearance of these marks is a direct result of the physics of suction applied to the skin combined with a localized reaction within the body’s smallest blood vessels. Understanding this process explains why the skin responds with such noticeable coloration.
The Mechanics of Suction
The process begins with creating a vacuum inside the cup placed against the skin. This vacuum generates negative pressure that pulls the skin, underlying soft tissues, and muscle upward into the cup. The negative pressure can be achieved through different methods.
Traditional Fire Cupping
In traditional fire cupping, a flame is briefly introduced inside a glass cup, heating the air. When the hot cup is quickly placed on the skin, the air cools and contracts, creating the necessary vacuum that lifts the tissue.
Modern Pump Cupping
Modern pump cupping uses plastic cups with a mechanical hand pump or an electrical device to manually suck the air out once the cup is sealed against the body.
Regardless of the method used, the resulting negative pressure generates a powerful suction force. This force stretches the skin and underlying tissues, setting the stage for the physical reaction that causes the color change.
The Physiological Cause of Skin Marks
The suction’s force pulls on the skin, causing the tiny, delicate blood vessels just beneath the surface to dilate and expand. These microscopic vessels, known as capillaries, are incredibly fragile. The extreme stretching and pressure caused by the vacuum can lead to these capillaries rupturing or leaking.
When the capillary walls break, small amounts of blood are released into the interstitial tissue directly under the skin’s surface. This leakage of red blood cells creates the visible discoloration. This phenomenon differs from a bruise caused by blunt force trauma, which is a contusion involving deeper tissue damage.
In scientific terms, the pinprick-sized marks where blood has leaked are called petechiae. Larger, bruise-like areas of discoloration are known as ecchymosis. This pooling of blood in the superficial tissue is considered a purposeful microtrauma, prompting a localized immune response. The body recognizes the extravasated blood and initiates a healing cascade to metabolize the leaked red blood cells.
Interpreting the Color and Duration of Cupping Marks
The color of the marks is interpreted by practitioners as an indication of the level of blood flow or stagnation in the treated area.
Interpreting Color
A light pink or faint red mark generally suggests good circulation and minimal tissue stagnation. Brighter red marks may indicate active inflammation or a more recent strain. Darker shades, such as deep red, purple, or maroon, are associated with a greater volume of blood released, suggesting significant or long-standing tissue tension. As the body processes the leaked blood, the marks may shift to a yellowish or greenish tint, a sign of the natural healing process. The dark color is temporary and a normal reaction to the therapy.
Duration of Marks
The duration of these marks varies depending on the darkness of the mark, the individual’s skin type, and their overall circulation. Most cupping marks fade and disappear within three to seven days. Darker marks, which indicate more blood pooling, may take up to ten days or occasionally two weeks to fully resolve. Applying a moisturizer and staying well-hydrated can assist the body in clearing the marks by promoting circulation and lymphatic drainage.