Have you ever wondered about those circular marks on athletes' bodies during the Olympics or seen them on the back of a friend who just came from a therapy session? Those marks are the remnants of a practice that has been around for centuries – cupping therapy. we delve into the world of cupping marks in Hijama therapy, shedding light on what they are, why they appear, and what they signify.
Hijama in Dubai, also known as cupping therapy, is an ancient form of alternative medicine that involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. This suction is believed to mobilize blood flow and promote healing. The term "Hijama" is derived from the Arabic word "hajm," which means sucking.

Cupping therapy dates back to ancient Egyptian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern cultures. It was practiced by the Egyptians as early as 1550 BC and later adopted by the Greeks and Romans. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also endorsed cupping as a remedy for various ailments.
During a cupping session, cups are placed on the skin and either heated or pumped to create a vacuum. This vacuum draws the skin and superficial muscle layer into the cup, promoting blood flow to the area. The suction may also help to release tension and toxins trapped in the body.
Cupping marks, also known as "sha," "cup kisses," or "hickey-like" marks, are the discolorations left on the skin after a cupping session. These marks typically range in color from pink to deep purple and can vary in size and shape.
Cupping marks can appear in different forms, including:
These are the most common types of cupping marks and appear as round bruises on the skin.
Sometimes, cupping may leave linear marks, especially if the cups are moved along the skin during the session.
In some cases, the cupping marks may be faint and barely visible, indicating mild suction.
The appearance of cupping marks can provide valuable insight into the body's condition. In traditional Chinese medicine, the color and intensity of the marks are believed to reflect the level of stagnation or imbalance in the body's energy (qi) and blood circulation.
Several factors can influence the appearance and severity of Hijama marks, including:
The intensity of the suction applied during the session.
The length of time the cups are left on the skin.
Some individuals may bruise more easily than others.
Certain medical conditions or medications may affect bruising.
Cupping marks typically fade within a few days to a week, depending on the individual's healing ability and the severity of the marks. Applying ice or arnica gel to the area may help speed up the healing process.
To minimize the appearance of cupping marks, consider the following tips:
Drink plenty of water before and after the session to keep the skin hydrated.
Massage the area gently after the session to improve circulation and reduce bruising.
Apply arnica gel or cream to the affected area to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Avoid hot baths, saunas, or strenuous exercise immediately after cupping to prevent exacerbating bruising.
Cupping marks in Hijama therapy at Dynamic Clinic are a natural consequence of the suction applied during the session. While they may look alarming, they are generally harmless and fade within a few days. By understanding the causes and characteristics of cupping marks, individuals can make informed decisions about their therapy sessions.
What is Hijama Therapy?
Hijama in Dubai, also known as cupping therapy, is an ancient form of alternative medicine that involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. This suction is believed to mobilize blood flow and promote healing. The term "Hijama" is derived from the Arabic word "hajm," which means sucking.
Origins of Cupping Therapy:
Cupping therapy dates back to ancient Egyptian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern cultures. It was practiced by the Egyptians as early as 1550 BC and later adopted by the Greeks and Romans. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also endorsed cupping as a remedy for various ailments.
How Does Cupping Therapy Work?
During a cupping session, cups are placed on the skin and either heated or pumped to create a vacuum. This vacuum draws the skin and superficial muscle layer into the cup, promoting blood flow to the area. The suction may also help to release tension and toxins trapped in the body.
Understanding Cupping Marks:
Cupping marks, also known as "sha," "cup kisses," or "hickey-like" marks, are the discolorations left on the skin after a cupping session. These marks typically range in color from pink to deep purple and can vary in size and shape.
Different Types of Cupping Marks:
Cupping marks can appear in different forms, including:
a. Circular Marks:
These are the most common types of cupping marks and appear as round bruises on the skin.
b. Linear Marks:
Sometimes, cupping may leave linear marks, especially if the cups are moved along the skin during the session.
c. Faint Marks:
In some cases, the cupping marks may be faint and barely visible, indicating mild suction.
What Do Cupping Marks Mean?
The appearance of cupping marks can provide valuable insight into the body's condition. In traditional Chinese medicine, the color and intensity of the marks are believed to reflect the level of stagnation or imbalance in the body's energy (qi) and blood circulation.
Factors Influencing Cupping Marks:
Several factors can influence the appearance and severity of Hijama marks, including:
a. Suction Pressure:
The intensity of the suction applied during the session.
b. Duration of Cupping:
The length of time the cups are left on the skin.
c. Individual Sensitivity:
Some individuals may bruise more easily than others.
d. Underlying Health Conditions:
Certain medical conditions or medications may affect bruising.
Duration of Cupping Marks:
Cupping marks typically fade within a few days to a week, depending on the individual's healing ability and the severity of the marks. Applying ice or arnica gel to the area may help speed up the healing process.
Tips for Minimizing Cupping Marks:
To minimize the appearance of cupping marks, consider the following tips:
a. Hydration:
Drink plenty of water before and after the session to keep the skin hydrated.
b. Gentle Massage:
Massage the area gently after the session to improve circulation and reduce bruising.
c. Arnica Gel:
Apply arnica gel or cream to the affected area to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
d. Avoiding Heat:
Avoid hot baths, saunas, or strenuous exercise immediately after cupping to prevent exacerbating bruising.
Conclusion:
Cupping marks in Hijama therapy at Dynamic Clinic are a natural consequence of the suction applied during the session. While they may look alarming, they are generally harmless and fade within a few days. By understanding the causes and characteristics of cupping marks, individuals can make informed decisions about their therapy sessions.