What is Cupping?

by Kate Miller on Jul 20 2026

Cupping in kink creates striking circular marks on the skin using suction, and the sensation can range from gentle pressure to intense pulling.

Cupping: Cupping is a kink practice where cups are placed on the skin to create suction, drawing the tissue upward and producing pressure, warmth, and sometimes vivid temporary marks.

Also known as: suction cupping, erotic cupping.

Cupping uses small cups, usually made from glass, silicone, or plastic, placed against the skin to create a vacuum seal. That suction lifts the skin and underlying tissue upward into the cup, which produces a distinctive pulling pressure. The feeling is often described as a deep, spreading warmth that can feel grounding or intense depending on how much suction is applied. Many people find it deeply relaxing, while others are drawn to the more intense sensations at higher suction levels. The round marks it leaves behind are caused by small blood vessels breaking beneath the skin and typically fade within one to ten days.

In kink, cupping is often used as part of sensation play or incorporated into power exchange scenes. If you feel a bit nervous about trying it, starting with silicone squeeze cups is a good idea because they give you easy, immediate control over the level of suction with no fuss. Glass cups used with a flame to create suction, sometimes called fire cupping, carry significantly higher risk and require real skill and experience to do safely, so they are best left to people who have had proper hands on training. Always agree on a safe signal or safeword before a session, and check the skin regularly during play. Avoid cupping over bony areas, broken skin, varicose veins, or anywhere that feels uncomfortable, and never leave cups on for longer than around five to ten minutes at a time.

Types of Cupping

Cups come in a few different forms, and each one gives you a slightly different level of control and sensation.

Silicone Cups: Soft, squeezable cups that create suction when you compress and release them, making them the most beginner friendly and easiest to control.
Plastic Pump Cups: Rigid cups attached to a hand pump that lets you dial in the exact level of suction you want, giving you precise and repeatable control.
Glass Cups: Traditional smooth glass cups that are used with a flame to create suction, producing a strong and even pull but requiring significant experience to use safely.
Rubber Bulb Cups: Cups with a built in rubber bulb that you squeeze to generate suction, offering a simple one handed operation that is easy to use on yourself or a partner.

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Key things to know

Silicone squeeze cups are the easiest starting point because you can release suction instantly if anything feels uncomfortable.
The circular marks cupping leaves are temporary and caused by small blood vessels breaking beneath the skin, so knowing this helps you and your partner plan around any events where you want clear skin.
Cups should never be placed over broken skin, varicose veins, or bony areas because doing so raises the risk of injury.
Agreeing on a safeword or safe signal before you start matters because it gives both of you a clear, stress free way to pause or stop the scene at any moment.
Keeping sessions to around five to ten minutes per area is a sensible guideline because prolonged suction can cause skin damage beyond normal temporary marking.

FAQ

Is cupping safe to try at home?

Silicone and plastic pump cups are generally considered the most approachable options for home use because they give you direct control and are easy to release quickly. Fire or flame cupping is a different matter and carries a real risk of burns if you are not trained in the technique, so it is best avoided unless you have learned from someone experienced. Start with light suction, short sessions, and always have a safeword in place before you begin.

Does cupping hurt?

The sensation varies a lot depending on the suction level and where the cup is placed. At low suction it tends to feel like a gentle, warm pulling pressure that many people find pleasant or even relaxing. Turning up the suction increases the intensity, so you can work your way up gradually and find what feels right for you.

How long do the marks last?

The round marks, sometimes called cup kisses, are caused by small blood vessels breaking beneath the skin and usually fade within one to ten days depending on your skin and how much suction was used. They are not typically painful to the touch in the way a regular bruise might be. If you have an important event coming up, it is worth planning your session timing with that in mind.

What areas of the body are best for cupping?

Fleshy areas with a good amount of soft tissue work best, such as the back, thighs, buttocks, and the backs of the upper arms. Avoid placing cups directly over the spine, joints, or any bony prominences, and steer clear of broken or irritated skin. If you are unsure about a specific area, starting conservatively and checking in with your partner often is always the right call.

Do I need any other supplies?

A good massage oil or body safe lubricant applied lightly to the skin around the cup edge can help create a better seal and make removal more comfortable. Keep a soft cloth nearby to wipe the skin after the session. If you notice any unexpected skin reaction beyond normal redness or marking, it is worth speaking to a doctor before playing again.

This entry is for education only. It is not medical advice, and HotCherry is a retailer, not a medical provider. If you have questions about your own health, please talk with a doctor or another qualified specialist.

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