Facial cupping has become a hot trend in the beauty world, and for good reason! This ancient technique uses small suction cups to massage the face, promoting circulation, lymphatic drainage, and a more youthful appearance.
Intrigued but unsure where to start? Don't worry, this DIY guide will walk you through everything you need to know about giving yourself a facial cupping massage at home.
What You'll Need:
- Facial cupping set: Look for a kit with various sized cups for different areas of the face.
- Facial oil or lubricant: This helps the cups glide smoothly and prevents pulling.
- Gentle cleanser
- Washcloth
Prepping for Your Facial Cupping Session:
- Cleanse your face: Remove all makeup, dirt, and oil with a gentle cleanser. Pat your face dry with a clean washcloth.
- Apply facial oil: A light layer of oil will create a smooth surface for the cups to glide across.
The Cupping Massage:
- Start with the neck: Use a larger cup to gently glide upwards along your neck, promoting lymphatic drainage.
- Jawline and cheeks: Use a medium-sized cup. Begin at the chin and glide upwards along the jawline towards the ear. Repeat on both sides. Then, use the same technique on your cheeks, starting at the corner of your mouth and moving upwards towards the temples.
- Forehead: Use a larger cup again. Glide the cup in smooth, upward motions across your forehead, starting between your eyebrows and moving outwards towards your temples.
- Brow area and under the eyes: These areas are delicate, so use the smallest cups with very light pressure. For the brow area, use short strokes following the shape of your brow. Avoid going too close to the eye itself. Under the eyes, use very gentle strokes outwards towards the temple.
General Tips:
- Be gentle: The key is a light touch. You should feel a slight suction, but not discomfort.
- Glide, don't pull: Always move the cups in smooth, gliding motions. Avoid pulling on the skin.
- Don't stay in one place: Keep the cups moving to avoid leaving marks.
- Focus on lymphatic drainage: Remember, the goal is to move fluid towards the lymph nodes.
- Relax and enjoy: Take some deep breaths and focus on the relaxing sensation of the massage.
Aftercare:
- Cleanse your face: Remove any remaining oil and rinse your face with cool water.
- Moisturize: Apply your favorite moisturizer to hydrate your skin.
- Relax: Enjoy your radiant and glowing complexion!
A Few Cautions:
- Facial cupping is not suitable for everyone. Avoid it if you have broken skin, rosacea, or any other skin conditions.
- If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop immediately.
- Consult your doctor before trying facial cupping if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any underlying health concerns.
With consistent practice, facial cupping can become a part of your regular skincare routine, leaving you with a noticeably brighter, firmer, and more youthful-looking face. So, grab your cups, relax, and enjoy the glow!
Yours in good health,
-Sonia Beauchamp
The Haleiwa Massage Muse
on the North Shore of Oahu