What are the treatments for cupping burn injuries?
Nov 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, the treatment for cupping-induced burns mainly includes immediately removing the heat source, cooling the area with cold water, disinfecting and protecting the wound, managing blister wounds, and applying topical medications to promote healing. Burns should be treated promptly to prevent infection from worsening. In daily care, keep the wound dry and clean, change sterile gauze regularly, and avoid friction and contact with water.
Generally, treatment methods for burns caused by cupping mainly include immediately removing the heat source, cooling the area with cold water, disinfecting and protecting the wound, managing blister wounds, and applying topical medications to promote healing. Burns should be treated promptly to prevent worsening infections. Specific measures are as follows:
1. Immediately remove the heat source
Quickly remove the burning or overheated cupping device to prevent continuous thermal exposure to the skin, stop damage from spreading deeper into tissues, and minimize the extent and depth of the burn.
2. Cool the area with cold running water
Rinse the burned area continuously with flowing cold water at 15–20°C for 15–20 minutes. This helps dissipate residual heat, reduces further tissue damage, and effectively relieves pain.
3. Disinfect and protect the wound
After rinsing, clean the wound with sterile saline solution to remove contaminants, then gently apply iodophor for disinfection. Cover the area with sterile gauze afterward to isolate it from external bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.
4. Manage blister wounds
Small blisters do not need to be punctured; their outer skin provides natural protection for the wound. If large blisters interfere with movement, a healthcare provider should use a sterile needle to drain the fluid while preserving the overlying skin. Do not peel off blistered skin yourself, as this may expose the wound and lead to infection.
5. Apply topical medications to promote healing
Apply burn ointment under medical guidance. These medications help maintain a moist wound environment, relieve pain, and promote regeneration of epidermal cells. Avoid home remedies such as toothpaste or soy sauce, which may irritate the wound or interfere with clinical assessment.
In daily care, keep the wound dry and clean, change sterile dressings regularly, and avoid friction or contact with water. Maintain a light diet and consume adequate protein-rich foods to support recovery. Seek immediate medical attention if the burn covers a large area, shows signs of pus, or is accompanied by fever, to prevent delayed treatment.
