Will cupping massage cause lines or wrinkles? (Please no filler or Botox recommendations).

Question

I have some lines under my eyes that are far worse when I smile (skin bunches up). I've been doing a lymphatic drainage massage (mini facial silicone cup + organic argan oil) to reduce bags and droopiness for almost the past two years. I've found it works well for that but I'm wondering if it's causing my lines? It it touted as actually preventing and helping those things and the people selling the devices say it won't cause those issues. Has anyone ever had any patients that used this method?

Jessica Lattman, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I do have many of my patients get lymphatic drainage massage after surgery.  I find it can be very helpful to reduce swelling and speed recovery.  So I think it would be helpful to reduce fluid under the eyes.Cupping, from what I understand, sucks the skin up with suction.  If this is stretching the eyelid skin, then it may be contributing to wrinkles.  But I don't have any experience with cupping around the eyes.

Adam Scheiner, MD · Answer

Dear Green Eyes,Lines and wrinkles are due to skin aging. A part of this is normal genetic aging but a larger part is due to past sun exposure.  Massage and cupping don't produce that skin damage. Its likely due to past sun exposure. Using sun block daily and wearing sunglasses when outside can help to stop further skin damage. Otherwise, medical skin creams with Retin-A or light treatments can help to repair past sun damage. My deep laser RESET procedure can reverse past sun damage but is a surgery. I hope this was helpful.

Will cupping massage cause lines or wrinkles? (Please no filler or Botox recommendations).

Answers (2)