Does Cupping for Cellulite Work?
So you’ve heard all the positive talk, but does cupping for cellulite work? Most women have cellulite—it’s totally, 100% normal. Just as you can embrace it and love it, you’re not in the wrong for wanting to change it. With so many cellulite treatments available, you might be wondering does cupping work for cellulite?
While there’s an endless choice of creams and in-office treatments you can try, cupping therapy is a holistic treatment that may improve the appearance of cellulite. Here’s everything you should know about cellulite cupping—including what it is, the benefits, and whether it’s worth it.
What is Cupping?
Cupping is a holistic treatment and an ancient form of alternative medicine dating back as early as 3000 BCE. The process involves using suction to improve blood flow, increase circulation, and stimulate lymphatic drainage. It is commonly performed by acupuncturists in the treatment of health and wellness concerns, offering everything from pain relief to relaxation and cellulite reduction.
In traditional Chinese medicine, cupping is said to bring blood and energy known as ‘qi.’ Besides improving blood circulation, cupping treatments can alleviate issues deep in the fascia (connective tissue).
Types of Cupping
There are two main types of cupping: dry and wet. Dry cupping, also known as fire cupping, is the more common and less invasive of the two. It involves placing a cup on the skin and creating suction by heating the air inside the cup, which can help promote circulation, reduce muscle tension, and provide pain relief.
Wet cupping is a more invasive and riskier procedure. It begins with dry cupping, followed by the creation of small incisions or punctures on the skin. The cups are reapplied to the punctured areas, drawing a small amount of blood or bodily fluids. Wet cupping is often used for detoxification but carries greater risks, including infection.
Both dry and wet cupping should be performed by trained practitioners. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist before undergoing these therapies, especially if you have underlying medical conditions.
Does Cupping for Cellulite Work?
Dry cupping therapy has been proven to decrease cellulite in women. By applying negative pressure to the skin, cupping promotes the drainage of accumulated fluids, toxins, and lymphatic capillaries, helping to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
A study from 2015 indicates that dry cupping for cellulite can be effective in improving its appearance. The dry cupping therapy was applied to the thighs of forty female subjects. Results showed that the mean grade of cellulite was decreased following the cupping treatment.
Does cupping help cellulite? While studies have shown a temporary improvement, it’s important to bear in mind that the effects may just be that—temporary. Cellulite is a complex condition influenced by genetics, diet, and hormonal imbalances. Anti-cellulite cupping might provide temporary improvements by removing the buildup of fluids and toxins, but it is unlikely to be a long-term solution for cellulite.
That being said, there are certainly many reasons to try cupping for cellulite. By stimulating lymph drainage and reducing fluid retention, cellulite cupping therapy can be extremely beneficial for your overall wellbeing.
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Benefits of Cupping
Does cupping for cellulite work? It certainly can. However, this alternative medicine practice can offer a number of other benefits, including pain relief and stress reduction. Here are a few reasons to treat yourself to a cupping massage.
Pain Relief
Cupping is often used to relieve muscle ache as well as joint pain. The suction created by the silicone cups can help increase blood flow to the affected area, which may reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort. It can help loosen tight muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce knots or trigger points.
Improved Blood Circulation
Cupping can enhance blood circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the targeted areas. This increased blood flow may support the body’s natural healing processes and promote overall wellness. Good blood circulation has been linked to improved heart health, brain function, and muscle function.
Relaxation and Stress Reduction
Many people find cupping sessions to be calming and stress-relieving. Studies have shown cupping can help with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is believed that the increased circulation promoted by cupping helps release endorphins (mood-boosting chemicals).
Immune System Support
By enhancing blood circulation and promoting the body's natural healing mechanisms, cupping may provide a boost to the immune system, helping the body fight off illnesses and infections. In fact, some people undergo cupping therapy purely for the health boosting benefits.
Skin Health
Cupping may improve skin texture by increasing oxygen and nutrient supply to the skin. This can be beneficial for conditions like acne, eczema, and cellulite. Does cupping for cellulite work? Research shows that it can reduce the appearance of dimpling. However, this may only be a temporary effect.
Does Cupping Reduce Thigh Fat?
While many people use cupping for cellulite, this procedure can also be used to reduce thigh fat. It does this by targeting fat deposits around the waist and thighs. By affecting the deep tissues, cupping reaches visceral fat which can be removed through the lymphatic system.
This doesn’t mean you’ll see a significant improvement in the appearance of thigh fat. However, cupping can be an effective treatment for achieving slimmer thighs. That being said, it will require multiple sessions to see a visible difference.
How to Do Cupping at Home
If you’re wondering how to do cupping on yourself, it is possible. However, you should acquaint yourself with the proper procedure to avoid any unpleasant side effects. Dermatologists recommend going to a licensed professional for cupping. But if you’d like to try cupping at home, here’s a step-by-step guide you can follow.
Step 1: Apply a thin layer of body oil or body lotion to the area you would like treated. This will help with the movement of the cups.
Step 2: Place the cup on the area you’d like to treat. Squeeze, release, and glide the cup using circular motions. Repeat for ten times on each area.
Step 3: Continue the process for 10 to 15 minutes and repeat three times per week.
How Long Does it Take for Cupping to Work on Cellulite?
To get the best results from cellulite cupping, aim to apply the suction cup 10 times on each thigh for around five weeks. You should start to see smoother skin after two to three weeks. However, it may take up to several weeks to see a visible improvement.
Cupping for Cellulite Side Effects
Cupping for cellulite is generally safe for adults. However, you should avoid cupping if you are pregnant, have heart disease, or take blood thinners. You should refrain from cupping if you have sunburn, skin wounds, varicose veins, or recent injuries.
Some potential side effects of cupping may include marks on the skin, worsening skin problems, and infection. Speak to your dermatologist or healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns related to cupping.
Cellulite Cupping Works Best with
It’s best to take a two-pronged approach to treating cellulite. As effective as cupping for cellulite can be, combining the treatment with topical cellulite formulas can be even more helpful in smoothing out dimpling. Here are some of our favorite formulas.
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Truly’s Anti-Cellulite Routine
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A 2-step treatment for your smoothest belly, butt, and thighs. You get: a citrusy, cellulite-targeting mask and serum powered by a blend of multi-functional flavonoids and retinol to mobilize stored fats and and manifest smoother, plumper skin.
Does Cupping Reduce Cellulite?
Does cupping for cellulite work? Small studies have shown that regular cupping sessions can improve the appearance of cellulite on the butt and thighs. That being said, effects aren’t likely to be permanent. In order to maintain the effects, you will need to keep up with cupping sessions. You can also try pairing cupping therapy with other cellulite treatments such as dry brushing, cellulite massages, radiofrequency, cellulite-fighting skincare, and laser therapy.
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Photo by RDNE Stock project, Pexels
