What the marks are
When a cup draws the skin upwards, small blood vessels near the surface release blood and fluid into the surrounding tissue. Unlike a bruise from an impact, there is no crushed tissue, so the marks are not painful and do not go through the same yellow-green stages. They are circular, matching the cup, and range from faint pink to deep purple.
How long they take to fade
Light pink marks are usually gone within two or three days. Red marks fade in three to seven days. Dark purple marks can take seven to ten days. People who bruise easily, are older, or have thinner skin may take a little longer. Marks fade faster with gentle movement and hydration.
What the colour means
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, darker marks are read as areas of stagnation or congestion. In practical terms, darker marks appear where the tissue is tighter or where circulation is poorer, and they tend to become lighter with successive treatments as the area improves. A dark mark is not a sign of harm.
Covering and caring for them
Keep the area warm and covered for the rest of the day, avoid cold, wind and swimming for 24 hours, and avoid strong sun on the marks. There is nothing to apply; they resolve on their own. If you have an event coming up, book cupping at least a week ahead or ask for lighter suction.
When to ask about a mark
Blistering, broken skin, spreading redness or a mark that is painful rather than tender is not typical and should be reported. These are rare with a trained practitioner. At Omnia in Chiswick, cupping is delivered by TCM-trained practitioners who set suction to your skin.