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A little preparation makes cupping easier to understand. Christine covers what to mention beforehand, what to report during a session and how to leave with a clear aftercare plan.

Preparing before the cups go on

Cupping makes more sense when preparation and aftercare are talked about before treatment begins. Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, likes to start by hearing about your skin. Is it easily irritated? Have you had any recent procedures or treatments on the area? Have you reacted to cupping or adhesive products in the past?

Your plans for the coming days matter too. If you will be returning to training, wearing a fitted outfit or attending a wedding, a photo shoot or a beach day soon afterwards, say so. Visible marks can linger, and you may want to factor that into timing.

Speaking up during the session

Let Christine know straight away if the pulling becomes uncomfortable, if anything feels like burning, or if you start to feel dizzy or light-headed. Cups can be loosened or removed quickly, and adjusting early is always preferable to pushing through.

Leaving with an aftercare plan

Before you head home, ask what skin changes are normal to see and who to contact if your skin or how you feel seems out of the ordinary. A short, specific plan written for you is far more helpful than a long list of general rules found online.

It is also worth noting how you feel over the next day or two, so you have something concrete to discuss at your next visit.

Reviewing what you came in for

Choose one everyday task or symptom before treatment, such as lifting a bag or sleeping on one side, and plan to talk about it at follow-up. Include comfort and how well your skin settled in that conversation. Marks are only one piece of information, and the decision to continue should come back to your purpose, your response and the alternatives available.

Before you arrive

For a session at the Freshwater clinic, wearing loose, comfortable clothing and arriving with a note of any upcoming events will make it easier to plan a session that suits your week.