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

Dec 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

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.

1. Exudation of Skin Tissue Fluid

Cupping creates negative pressure, increasing capillary permeability in the local skin area and causing tissue fluid to exude, forming yellow fluid. After stopping cupping, keep the skin dry and clean, avoid friction, and recovery usually occurs spontaneously within a few days.

2. Excessive Temperature Inside the Cup

High temperature during cup retention can irritate the skin, leading to epidermal damage with minor exudation of tissue fluid. Reduce the cupping temperature, shorten the duration of cup retention, and apply medical-grade vaseline locally to protect the skin.

3. Eczema

Inflammation due to damaged skin barrier can be aggravated by the negative pressure of cupping, resulting in increased exudation and yellow fluid discharge. Under medical guidance, topical corticosteroid creams such as hydrocortisone butyrate cream, desonide cream, or mometasone furoate gel can be applied. Keep the affected area well-ventilated and avoid scratching.

4. Seborrheic Dermatitis

Inflammation caused by overactive sebaceous glands may worsen with cupping stimulation, leading to increased exudation. As directed by a physician, topical treatments such as ketoconazole cream, miconazole clotrimazole cream, or tacrolimus ointment may be used. Maintain a light diet and reduce fat intake.

5. Impaired Lymphatic Return

Blocked lymphatic vessels cause lymphatic fluid accumulation, and the negative pressure from cupping promotes its exudation. Medical evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause. Medications such as micronized purified flavonoid extract (MPFF) tablets, diosmin tablets, or calcium dobesilate capsules may be prescribed. In severe cases, lymphatic reconstruction surgery may be required.

During routine cupping therapy, temperature and duration should be carefully controlled, and procedures should be performed at qualified institutions. If yellow fluid discharge is accompanied by redness, swelling, or increased pain, cupping should be stopped immediately and medical attention sought. Maintaining skin hygiene and a balanced diet can enhance skin resistance and reduce the likelihood of adverse reactions.

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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 does the color of cupping marks indicate?

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.

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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.