Here's Why People Are Putting Suction Cups on Their Faces

Remember when, during the 2016 Olympics, everyone saw those giant, red, circular marks all over Michael Phelps’s back and was like, “That solves it! He really isn’t of our species!”

Then we found out the marks were because of cupping and accepted the fact that, yes, he is human. (Well, superhuman.) All of a sudden, friends and random acquaintances started praising the benefits of cupping on their non-Olympic athlete bodies and our interest was piqued.

But the craze really reached a fever pitch when we started to hear rumblings about people using this technique on their faces. Here’s what you need to know. 

What is facial cupping? The ancient practice of cupping uses suction cups directly on the skin to promote circulation and relieve muscle tension. Proponents of facial cupping say it reduces puffiness, softens fine lines and wrinkles, stimulates collagen and helps products absorb more easily.

How do you do it? One of two ways. First, you can get it done at a spa or salon. Those treatments will set you back upwards of $150 for one session. If you’re more of a DIY gal (or on a budget), you can buy a cupping kit from Amazon for under $30, read the instructions carefully and do it to your own face. (Here’s an at-home tutorial from blogger Scout the City.) From start to finish, it typically takes just 30 minutes.

Does it actually work? Surprisingly well. In addition to a few friends singing the practice’s praise, we checked in with celebrity makeup artist Maki Ryoke (she’s worked on everyone from Nicole Kidman and Gigi Hadid to Lana Del Rey and Kate Hudson). She’s an expert on Eastern beauty rituals, including cupping, which she says facilitates a glowing, younger-looking complexion. 

But will it leave giant red polka dots on my face? That would be funny (after the fact), but no. The suction isn’t nearly as strong on as it is on your back or legs because the skin on your face is much more delicate.

So yes, it looks kinda weird while you’re doing it. But if it means a smoother, less puffy complexion, we’re more than willing to give it a try.