What are the benefits of cupping facial massage?
- improves blood circulation, lymph flow, helps get rid of swelling
- saturates cells with oxygen, improves skin color, removes toxins
- improves tone, helps get rid of redness and rashes
- tightens pores
- reduces the depth of wrinkles and creases
- Helps achieve a clear facial contour, get rid of double chin and jowls
- activates the production of natural collagen
- eliminates bags and dark circles under the eyes, fights a tired look
- improves overall well-being, strengthens the immune system
- relaxes, relieves tension, headaches, insomnia.
What is the procedure
Cupping massage is a special technique of influencing the epidermis using vacuum cups. During the procedure, small jars are applied to the required areas of the face, which kind of suck in the skin, thereby activating many processes.
As a result:
- metabolism is normalized;
- the functioning of the blood circulation and lymphatic system improves;
- toxins are eliminated;
- muscles are strengthened;
- collagen production increases, etc.
The procedure significantly rejuvenates and returns the natural glow to the face in just a few sessions.
Effect of massage
Carrying out a course of cupping facial massages gives the following effect:
- saturates cells with oxygen;
- reduces the volume of wrinkles;
- reduces capillary fragility;
- improves elasticity and reduces sagging;
- smoothes the skin;
- removes toxins;
- tightens pores and minimizes swelling;
- strengthens facial muscles and more.
The effectiveness will be slightly higher if sessions are carried out the required number of times, taking into account all the features of the epidermis.
When the result appears
With the right approach to performing massage movements with cups, the result should be noticeable 10 hours after the end of the first session and consist of:
- in improving complexion,
- in reducing sagging,
- in narrowing pores,
- in a feeling of lightness on the face.
Getting rid of many problems and significant improvement of the skin occurs only after completing a course of such sessions.
Advantages and disadvantages
The principle of operation is to actively stimulate skin cells using vacuum cans. This massage has a number of positive and negative aspects. Cosmetologists highlight the main advantages of the procedure:
- Deep cleansing and nutrition.
- Significant reduction in pores.
- Strengthening facial and facial muscles.
- Normalization of blood circulation and lymphatic system functioning.
- Complete removal of toxins.
- Improved appearance and overall health.
Cupping massage technique, watch in this video:
Along with the positive aspects, cupping massage has some disadvantages:
- The likelihood of exacerbation of chronic diseases, especially those associated with lesions of the facial nerves.
- Manifestations of bruising or slight swelling.
- Burning sensation on the face.
In rare cases, in the late afternoon, there may be a slight increase in body temperature, which normalizes by morning without drug treatment.
As a rule, negative consequences occur if a person did not follow the rules during the session, or contraindications were not taken into account.
Indications and contraindications
Many specialists recommend cupping massage to those people who have the following severe problems on their face:
- swelling, especially in the eye area;
- excess fat deposits, including a double chin;
- dullness or sagging skin;
- increased dryness of the epidermis;
- weak facial muscles.
In some cases, performing such a procedure can cause irreparable harm to health, so it is necessary to refuse cupping massage:
- for oncological diseases;
- if there are lesions of the lymph nodes;
- have problems with blood clotting;
- for various wounds on the face;
- if there are infectious diseases;
- with extensive rashes or allergic reactions;
- for some neurological diseases.
It is worth rescheduling the session to a more favorable time in case of general malaise, fever or high blood pressure.
Who should perform facial cupping massage with care?
- Women during their periods. There is a risk of bruising due to the special sensitivity and receptivity of the body.
- For those with oily skin. In this case, you need to choose special oils (we talk about them in the following paragraphs) that will help normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands.
- During surges in blood pressure, we advise you to conduct the session with caution. The procedure activates blood circulation, which can lead to even greater changes in blood pressure.
- For those with raised moles. Walk around them at a distance of at least 1 cm.
- If you have thin skin, start the procedure with light movements. Assess your skin reaction a day after the session. You can increase your movements during the next procedure if there are no bruises or pronounced capillaries.
- There is a risk of stretch marks! Carefully study the cupping massage scheme before your first session.
What is vacuum massage
A cosmetic procedure during which the face or body is exposed to special cups that draw in the skin is called vacuum massage. The benefit of this is achieved due to the fact that, due to pressure, the connective tissue capsule with fat cells ruptures, the contents come out, and the lymphatic system removes it from the body. In addition, the vacuum facial massager acts with a pulse wave in all directions, that is, comprehensively, eliminating not only swelling and deposits, but also other skin defects.
How to choose banks?
- Silicone. Inexpensive and easy to use option. They are designed for two or three courses, after which they lose their shape, which will reduce the effectiveness of the procedure.
- Rubber. Lightweight and inexpensive, just like silicone ones. The downside is that rubber absorbs dirt and oil aromas, which quickly renders the jars unusable.
- Glass with rubber nozzle. Sturdy, durable option.
- Plastic with pneumatic mechanism. Good for those who find it more convenient to create a vacuum using a special mechanism.
- With magnet. They combine the effects of vacuum and magnetic therapy.
- Jars with a valve are a salvation for those with sensitive skin. Allows you to regulate pressure. Good for the area around the eyes.
What types of banks are there? (4 options)
Depending on the material used, vacuum jars for the face can be made of glass, rubber, plastic, or silicone.
They have the following features:
- Silicone ones are easy to use. Widely used in cosmetology centers and at home. Their shape is made in the form of an arc, there is a dense ring at the base. Do not deform, do not break. They are universal, therefore they are used on various areas of the face and neck.
- Plastic ones are equipped with a special screw. It is he who pumps out the air and regulates the suction force of the skin. Some products are equipped with magnets. These jars combine the effects of magnetic therapy and vacuum therapy.
- Glass ones are a small vessel in the form of a flask with a rubber pump that draws out air. Very easy to use, but can break if used carelessly. Often such products for cosmetic massage are sold as a set, for example, alpina plast vacuum cosmetic jars set 4 for the face. They all have different sizes, so they can be used on other parts of the body (legs, shoulders, hips). You can buy Alpina Plast vacuum cosmetic jars, set of 4 for the face, on the distributor’s official website on the Internet or in a pharmacy.
- Rubber ones are cheap. Their material is coarser than the previous ones, thanks to this the intensity of the massage can be increased. It is very easy to regulate the degree of impact on the skin; just reduce or increase the compression of the jar with your fingers. But there are disadvantages: shorter service life, absorption of odors from oils or creams by the material, difficulty in washing.
You can buy vacuum jars for the face made of rubber, plastic, silicone or glass in cosmetic stores, pharmacies or order online.
How to work with banks correctly?
Vacuum action is divided into two types: static and dynamic.
The static version of cupping massage is used if it is necessary to particularly carefully work out certain areas of the face (jowls, double chin, eyebrow folds). Place the jar on the selected area, leave for 4 seconds, and then move to the next point. Start with a light pressure, as too intense cupping can lead to bruising. With each session it is necessary to increase the exposure time, maximum - 25 seconds.
A dynamic version of cupping massage is moving cups over the entire surface of the face. This technique is used with special oils or gels to improve gliding.
Features of the procedure
How to prepare
Before the session, you need to remove hair from your face, thoroughly cleanse your skin of makeup, and then wash with a cosmetic product that is suitable for your skin type. After washing, pat your face a little with a clean towel or disposable napkin, and then immediately apply massage oil or cream.
Which oil to choose
Most vegetable oils dry out the skin, and also, to one degree or another, clog pores and lead to rashes, i.e. has a comedogenic effect.
As an alternative, many cosmetologists recommend using semi-oily creams that are ideal for your skin.
Low comedogenic oils:
- Grape seed oil.
- Argans.
- Evening primrose.
- Hemp.
- Hazelnut.
- Almond.
When choosing cups for massage at home, cosmetologists recommend paying attention to pharmacy companies that specialize in the manufacture of medical equipment:
- Glass jars with a silicone nozzle from the Ukrainian manufacturer Alpina Plast.
- Medical massager “Miracle Bank” of small diameter.
- Silicone jars for vacuum facial massage LURE.
Facial massage lines
Dynamic cupping facial massage is carried out strictly along the massage lines:
middle of forehead→temple
corners of lips→earlobes
center of chin→earlobes
inner corner of the eye → outer corner of the eye (perform the movement through the lower edge of the eye) → inner corner (through the top of the eye)
bottom of the nose wing→top of the nose wing (and vice versa)
middle of chin→top of neck
Failure to follow the rules will lead to a negative effect. The skin will sag, the oval will become less clear, and swelling of the face will appear.
Why do we need vacuum cups for the face?
Vacuum cups are small pear-shaped vessels used to provide deep massage. Previously used for the back, chest, etc.
Since the containers were quite large and created strong pressure, they were not used on the face, as this could lead to injury to delicate skin and hematomas.
Modern massage cups can have a wide variety of sizes: from 1 cm or more in diameter. This expands their functionality and makes it possible to use them in the facial area.
Products help improve cellular metabolism in the epidermis and deeper layers of the skin:
- provide local blood flow;
- normalize blood circulation and oxygen saturation of cells;
- improve lymphatic drainage;
- get rid of excess fluid and swelling.
Also, massage procedures with cups have a rejuvenating and fat-burning effect.
They contribute to the destruction of fibrous partitions and the release of fat cells, warming and toning muscles, tightening the facial contour, and smoothing out wrinkles.
This is accomplished through negative pressure—vacuum. It is created when air is sucked out of the jar, the skin is drawn inward.
The difference between the pressure on the skin and inside the jar provides the therapeutic effect.
Dynamic technique:
- Apply oil to skin.
- Take a position that is comfortable for you. When a person feels stiffness in any part of the body, it is reflected on his face. Therefore, be sure to sit in such a way that you feel comfortable for the next 15-20 minutes.
- The first session lasts 15 minutes. Subsequent ones - up to 25 minutes. The procedure is carried out every other day for a month. The course can be repeated several times a year, but not earlier than a month after the end of the previous one. If severe redness on the skin, bruises, or bruises appear, reduce the intensity of movements or stop the session.
- Start by working on the neck area. Swipe a medium or large jar (40-50 mm) 5 times in the direction from the back of the head to the neck. From the sides of the neck to the center, from bottom to top, do the same 5 times. From the middle of the chin to the earlobes, working the double chin area, 10 times. In the future, you will be able to independently adjust the number of repetitions, based on the need for particularly careful study of a particular area.
- Take a medium-sized jar (20 mm), work on the cheekbones: from the lower base, go to the ear through the bottom of the cheekbone. Repeat 5 times on both sides. Work a parallel line from the center of the chin to the earlobe. This technique will make your face clearer and more sculpted.
- Using a small jar, work the nasolabial folds in the direction from the wings of the nose to the lips (5 times).
- To get rid of bruises, bags under the eyes, crow's feet: use a small jar to move from the inner corner of the eye to the outer corner along the line of the brow ridge. Return to the starting position along the lower eyelid line. 2-3 repetitions for the first session will be enough, since the skin in this area is especially delicate. Do not put pressure on the can while performing the movements!
- Pay attention to the forehead area, since for many it is in this area that the first signs of aging appear - wrinkles and creases. From the bridge of the nose to the temples, from the center of the forehead to the hair, from the top center point to the hair. Each line must be worked 10 times. To work out the eyebrow wrinkle, it is better to use a static technique.
- Rinse off any remaining oil from your face, clean and dry the jars. Do not put wet jars in a storage container, this can lead to the formation of mold and an unpleasant odor.
- Dry your skin with a towel. We recommend using disposable paper towels, which prevent the possibility of dirt and infection.
- Apply cream. Keep your face relaxed for 10-15 minutes after the session. It is useful to make a mask at this time.
Effect of vacuum massage
The effect of the procedure is strong, powerful and even a little aggressive. This contributes to the following beneficial effects of vacuum massage:
- unevenness of the skin surface is removed, it ceases to be lumpy, becoming smooth and soft to the touch;
- swelling is eliminated, regardless of the cause;
- due to the effect on fat deposits, the effect of facial slimming is observed;
- tissue trophism increases, as a result of which the texture and tone of the skin improves, it becomes more elastic;
- shallow wrinkles are smoothed out;
- fibrosis decreases (overgrowth of connective tissue due to excessive collagen production);
- blood circulation and lymph flow are stimulated;
- the regeneration properties of the epidermis are enhanced;
- bags under the eyes are eliminated;
- pigment spots become less noticeable, scars fade.
Keep in mind that such results are fully observed only when the procedure is performed by a certified cosmetologist, following all the rules and using the appropriate tools. A home session is possible if you purchase special equipment, but you should not expect a comprehensive result from a vacuum massage done according to instructions on the Internet.
Basic mistakes when carrying out
Please read these points carefully to minimize the negative effects and complications after the procedure.
- Insufficient cleansing of the skin before the procedure provokes activation of inflammatory processes.
- Neglecting to treat jars with alcohol-containing products will lead to the appearance of rashes and pimples.
- Carrying out a session without taking into account massage lines will lead to stretching and sagging of the skin.
- Due to too intense exposure or a long cupping massage, bruises appear.
- Essential oil may cause allergies. The day before the first session, check the reaction: apply a drop to your wrist, leave for 15 minutes. There is no redness or itching - you can carry out the procedure.
- A strong impact on the lymph nodes can lead to their inflammation and a sharp increase in body temperature. Avoid these areas.
- Impact on protruding moles can lead to their subsequent inflammation.
- Being in an uncomfortable position provokes facial tension, which negates the effectiveness of cupping massage. Always take the most comfortable position during the session.
Oil selection
Before the procedure, you need to prepare massage oil. This cosmetic product will help the jar glide well over the surface of the epidermis without causing painful or uncomfortable sensations.
Skin type | Which oil is suitable |
Dry | Sesame, flaxseed, olive, almond, apricot kernel, wheat germ oil |
Fat | Jojoba, hazelnut, avocado, poppy, shea (karite) oils |
Mixed | Pumpkin, coconut, safflower, calendula, black cumin, sandalwood oil |
Sensitive | Musk, macadamia, argan, grape seed almond, juniper, sea buckthorn oils |
How to choose an essential oil?
Based on your skin type and the effect you want to achieve.
Dry skin: olive, avocado oils.
Oily skin: sunflower oil, jojoba, orange, grapefruit, lemon. Remember that if, along with fat content, you are worried about an active inflammatory process (acne, rashes), then it is better to refuse the procedure. Cupping massage is indicated for those with oily skin, contrary to the myth that the procedure will only aggravate the problem. It helps to improve the functioning of the sebaceous glands and reduces the production of sebum.
Aging skin: wheat germ oils, sandalwood.
To reduce the appearance of pigmentation: mint oil.
For facial slimming: jojoba oil.
Regularity is the key to success. A course of cupping massage will give you a lasting rejuvenating result, which must be maintained once a week after the end of the main sessions.
If you do not want to stop your passion for massage techniques at the amateur level, we advise you to visit the website of the School of Masters, which presents online and offline programs for training in the art of massage! Taking courses from the School of Masters brings the day closer when your hobby will begin to bring happiness to others and a decent income to you!
Author of the article:
Practicing: 27 years, Teaching: 20 years
Contraindications to the procedure
Unfortunately, the procedure is contraindicated for some women and in order to remove the above skin defects, they have to resort to other manipulations. So, vacuum massage cannot be done if:
- the presence of injuries and open lesions on the skin: scratches, cuts, bleeding wounds, ulcers;
- rosacea;
- large moles on the face;
- sensitive, easily vulnerable skin;
- fragility and fragility of blood vessels;
- if the area of inflammation (pimples, acne, clogged sebaceous glands) is too large.
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Reviews
You can see photos and read reviews about this procedure in our previous material. Women who have tried vacuum massage most often evaluate this experience positively, but there are also neutral comments.
Anna, Perm
I used to often visit a cosmetologist. But after the birth of a child, there is practically no time left for yourself, you have to constantly get out and look for information on how to properly care for yourself at home. At some point, small wrinkles that appeared on my forehead led me into real panic. On the advice of a friend, I decided to try a new procedure and learned how to perform a facial massage. During the first session and after it, the sensations, of course, were not entirely familiar. At first it was as if the skin was pinching, then there was even slight swelling. I noticed the result after just a few weeks - the skin was noticeably smoother, and the wrinkles were not so deep.
Veronica, Nizhny Novgorod
I tried vacuum massage for the first time in a salon. The procedure seemed so pleasant that I wanted to repeat it. It was only when I thought about how much I would have to pay for the course that I wanted to give up this idea. Then I read that massage with cups can be done at home. In principle, nothing complicated, I quickly got used to it. I don’t see any special results yet, but during the sessions I feel very relaxed – I turn on pleasant music and use my favorite oil. Afterwards I felt as if I had returned from vacation. Colleagues at work began to compliment me. I don’t know if it’s the massage, but overall I feel much better.
Irina, Taganrog
I tried this massage, did 10 procedures myself, but not regularly, but when I was in the mood. To be honest, I expected more. Maybe it’s just that not enough time has passed and we need to continue.
Ekaterina, St. Petersburg
I have very oily skin. Anything - this unpleasant shine immediately appears. Plus minor rashes. Can you imagine this picture? I read on the Internet about vacuum massage and decided to try it, because jars and oil are inexpensive. Within a week, I noticed that I began to take out matting wipes and powder less often. In addition, the rashes that made me constantly feel complex have disappeared.
Angelina, Sochi
I looked at the “before” and “after” pictures of the cupping massage course and thought that these were most likely miracles of treatment. But I decided to try it anyway. The result was pleasantly surprising. It feels like even the shape of the face has changed a little - it seems to have tightened up, the contour has become neater, the double chin has noticeably shrunk.
Svetlana, Lipetsk
For girls with sensitive skin, like me, I don’t recommend experimenting with their appearance. Especially if there is a holiday ahead. I didn’t read about the contraindications and subtleties of skin restoration after this massage, so I did it too intensely on the eve of my first day at a new job. As a result, the “beautiful” one arrived - with bruises. So be careful, treat your skin as gently as possible first, so as not to be disappointed.
Elena, Anapa
A year ago I took a massage course, now I do it periodically to maintain it. The result pleased me. I won’t say that the wrinkles have disappeared, but they have become less pronounced. I can also note that my complexion has changed - it has become so even and beautiful that I practically stopped using foundation. Now I apply regular BB and feel comfortable. Perhaps this is due not only to cupping massage, because I additionally changed my diet - I excluded sweets, carbonated drinks and baked goods. I periodically take vitamin complexes designed specifically for skin, hair and nails.
Angelika, Murmansk
I tried a lot, but vacuum facial massage, which you can do yourself, is in no way inferior to them in terms of effectiveness. Even small pimples and dark circles under my eyes, which I couldn’t overcome before, went away. I shelled out so much money, but in the end ordinary banks helped. Conveniently, getting them is not a problem - you can find them in any pharmacy. The main thing is to choose the right diameter. I immediately bought two sizes so that I could use small jars to treat the area near the eyes and nasolabial folds, and large jars to treat all other areas. There is nothing difficult about the procedure, you just need to get used to it.
Oksana, Sevastopol
Is it worth bothering with such home tricks as facial massage with cups? I think if you want to look good without spending a lot of money, this is a good solution. You can easily figure out how to do a massage. Of course, you shouldn’t expect results right away. I didn’t even feel much difference after the first time. For pleasant changes to occur, you need to do vacuum facial massage at home regularly and strictly follow all the rules. It is important not to steam your face too much - after such an incident I had rashes and bruises.
Is special facial preparation necessary?
Before starting the massage, the skin should be cleansed. Remove makeup with a cotton pad with foam, wipe your face with lotion. You can wash your face with water using a scrub. Then the face must be steamed with hot compresses from a decoction of calendula, string or chamomile.
After a bath, sauna or hot bath, no additional exposure is required. There is no need to greatly expand the pores, otherwise red spots will remain after the massage. For sensitive skin, it is better to avoid this stage entirely.
During the preparation process, it is important to pay attention not only to the face. Hands should be washed with soap. Thoroughly disinfect jars with products containing alcohol. It is convenient to use napkins.
You can also treat them with soapy water and wipe dry. Under no circumstances should you lend your banks to friends and relatives for temporary use.
Preparing for a massage
Before the massage, you should thoroughly clean the epidermis of dirt and makeup.
Then you should dry your face with a towel and apply oil to the skin instead of the usual moisturizers.
The procedure requires the correct technique, otherwise, instead of reducing wrinkles and increasing the elasticity of the epidermis, inflammatory processes, damage to the vascular network, and hematomas are possible.