Can blisters caused by cupping be punctured?

After cupping therapy, blisters may easily form—especially if the suction intensity or duration is improperly controlled.

Once blisters appear, first assess their size and volume to determine whether they should be punctured—a decision that depends on two scenarios:

If the blisters are small, no special treatment is required; they will typically resolve and be reabsorbed spontaneously. Normal daily activities can continue, but care should be taken during bathing or dressing to avoid rupturing the blisters.

If the blisters are large, first puncture the blister roof with a sterile needle, then gently absorb the exuded tissue fluid using a sterile cotton ball. Finally, cover the area with a thin layer of gauze to promote ventilation, prevent friction or abrasion, and protect the injured skin. Keep the area dry; healing—including scab formation—usually occurs within about one week.

Blisters following cupping may also result from excessive internal dampness in the patient’s body. In such cases, patients should modify unhealthy lifestyle and dietary habits to reduce dampness accumulation. Alternatively, blisters may arise from improper cupping technique—such as excessive negative pressure or excessively prolonged cup retention—both of which can contribute to blister formation.