Cupping for cellulite uses a silicone or glass cup to lift the skin and slide it over oiled thighs and glutes. It can make dimpled skin look smoother for a while. Bruising is common, and the evidence is thin.
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What is cupping for cellulite?
A cup placed on the skin creates suction that lifts the surface tissue. Moving the cup back and forth over oiled skin is the version people use for cellulite, usually on the thighs, hips and glutes.
How do you do it at home?
- Apply massage oil or lotion to the area.
- Squeeze a silicone cup, place it on the skin and let it grip.
- Slide it slowly back and forth or in circles.
- Keep going for ten to fifteen minutes per area.
- Repeat two or three times a week.
According to Healthline, silicone cups bruise less and are easier to use on yourself than glass ones.
What does the research say?
A 2015 pilot study of 40 women who used moving cupping on their thighs for five weeks found a lower cellulite grade at the end. Beyond that the research is limited and mostly low quality, so treat any promise of lasting results with caution.
Does cupping bruise?
Often. Marks can last days to a couple of weeks. Skip cupping on sunburn, wounds, varicose veins and recent injuries, and check with a doctor first if you are pregnant, take blood thinners or have a heart condition.
What are gentler options?
| Option | Feel | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Glass cup | Strong suction | Bruising common |
| Silicone cup | Moderate suction | Less bruising |
| Cellulite roller | Gentle rolling | Rarely |
| Knobbed vibrating massager | Vibration through raised knobs | Rare at normal levels, with oil |
The ryng contour V3 is the knobbed option: glide it over oiled thighs for three or four minutes, or strap it on. More in our guide to cellulite massagers.
the ryng contour V3
A knobbed fascia ring for thighs, hips and glutes. Glide it with oil, or strap it on hands-free.
See the ryng contour V3