What does the color of cupping marks indicate?

Dec 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

In general, the color of cupping marks varies and reflects different health conditions, with common colors including bright red, dark red, purple, light blue, grayish-white, etc. In addition, the color of cupping marks can be influenced by individual differences, so there is no need to be overly concerned about a single result. However, if abnormal mark colors persist over time or are accompanied by significant discomfort, medical attention should be sought promptly to evaluate one's health status based on specific circumstances.

Generally, the color of痧 (sha) marks from cupping therapy varies and reflects different health conditions. Common colors include bright red, dark red, purple, light bluish, grayish white, etc. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Bright Red

Bright red sha spots often indicate the presence of heat pathogen in the body, possibly caused by recent consumption of spicy foods, emotional irritability, or external invasion of heat. Heat pathogen steaming the blood vessels leads to local congestion of qi and blood, resulting in bright red sha after cupping. This is often accompanied by heat-related symptoms such as dry mouth and sore throat.

2. Dark Red

Dark red sha spots usually reflect blood stasis in the body, often due to prolonged poor circulation of qi and blood, leading to localized blood stagnation. This condition is commonly seen in individuals who sit for long periods or have a history of trauma. Internal blood stasis impairs local supply of qi and blood, causing the sha color to appear darker.

3. Purple

Purple sha spots typically indicate cold-induced blood stasis. Cold pathogens cause constriction of blood vessels and obstruct the flow of qi and blood, leading to deeper discoloration appearing purple. Individuals with this pattern often feel cold, have cold hands and feet, and experience more pronounced symptoms in cold environments.

4. Light Bluish

Light bluish sha spots suggest the presence of cold-dampness in the body. Dampness, being sticky in nature, impedes the normal flow of qi and blood, while cold causes contraction and stagnation of the channels. The combination of these factors results in poor circulation and a light bluish sha color. Such individuals often experience symptoms like heaviness in the body, sticky and unformed stools.

5. Grayish White

Grayish white sha spots generally indicate deficiency of qi and blood. Insufficient qi and blood result in weak propulsion and inadequate nourishment of the skin after cupping, leading to pale or grayish-white sha. These individuals often suffer from fatigue, pallor, low energy, and other signs of qi and blood deficiency.

In addition, the color of cupping-induced sha can vary due to individual differences, so a single occurrence does not necessarily warrant concern. However, if abnormal sha colors persist over time or are accompanied by significant discomfort, timely medical evaluation is recommended to determine the underlying health condition based on a comprehensive assessment.

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What does it mean when yellow fluid comes out during cupping?

In general, yellow fluid discharge after cupping may be caused by factors such as exudation of skin tissue fluid, excessive temperature inside the cup, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, or impaired lymphatic return. Appropriate measures can be taken based on the specific situation to improve the condition. During routine cupping, it's important to control the temperature and duration, and treatment should be performed at a qualified facility. If yellow fluid is accompanied by redness, swelling, or increased pain, cupping should be stopped immediately and medical attention sought. Keep the skin clean.

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What does it mean when cupping leaves a purple ring with a white center?

The purple ring with a white center after cupping results from the combined effects of local blood circulation and tissue fluid exudation. The central white area typically occurs because the negative pressure is strongest at the center of the cup, temporarily compressing and occluding capillaries. The surrounding purple area represents bruising caused by capillary dilation and minor blood leakage in the peripheral region, which is a normal physiological response following cupping therapy.

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Why do I feel very weak the day after cupping therapy, and what should I do about it?

In general, feeling very weak the day after cupping therapy may be caused by open pores on the skin surface, depletion of qi and blood, hypoglycemia, anemia, hypothyroidism, or other reasons. Depending on the specific situation, improvement can be achieved through general调理 (regulation), medication, or other treatments. Before undergoing cupping, one should clearly understand their physical constitution and avoid the procedure when fasting or fatigued. If the feeling of weakness persists for more than 3 days or is accompanied by dizziness or palpitations, seek medical attention promptly.

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What to do if you took a bath after cupping

Under normal circumstances, after cupping therapy the pores are open, and taking a bath immediately may make one susceptible to dampness and cold, leading to discomfort. If this occurs, corrective measures include promptly drying the body and keeping warm, applying heat to the cupped areas, drinking warm beverages, performing moderate moxibustion to dispel cold, and avoiding further irritation. After cupping, it is important to wait 4–6 hours before bathing, and when showering, opt for a shower rather than a bath with water temperature not too low.