How to Use ShifaCup

How to Use ShifaCup

ShifaCup is designed to be simple — but a few details make a real difference in how effective and comfortable each session is. Here's exactly how to use it.

Before you start

  • Clean the area. Wash and dry the skin where you'll apply the cup. The cup needs a clean, slightly oiled surface for proper suction and a smooth glide.
  • Apply a light oil. Use a small amount of massage oil, body oil, or coconut oil on the skin. This helps the cup glide if you want to do moving cupping, and prevents the suction from pulling at dry skin.
  • Charge the device. A fully charged ShifaCup will give you 30-40 sessions before needing a recharge.

Step-by-step

  1. Choose your cup attachment based on the area you're treating. Smaller cups for neck, shoulders, and joints. Larger cups for back, thighs, and abdomen.
  2. Power on the device and select your starting suction level. Beginners should start at the lowest level.
  3. Place the cup on the skin and let the suction build. You'll feel the skin lift gently into the cup. This is normal.
  4. If using moving cupping, slide the cup slowly along the muscle in long, smooth strokes (toward the heart for circulation, or along the muscle line for tension release).
  5. If using stationary cupping, hold the cup in place for 1-3 minutes per spot. Avoid leaving it in one place longer than 5 minutes.
  6. Activate heat or red light therapy if desired. These can be combined or used separately.
  7. To remove the cup, press the release button. Do not pull the cup off forcefully.

How long is a session?

Most full sessions are 10-20 minutes. Spread the time across multiple body areas rather than concentrating on one spot. Stop if you feel sharp pain, dizziness, or discomfort beyond the normal pulling sensation.

Aftercare

  • Drink a full glass of water after your session. Cupping increases circulation, and hydration supports the response.
  • Avoid hot showers, intense exercise, or alcohol for 4-6 hours after a session.
  • Light marks will appear and fade within 3-7 days. They are normal and not bruises in the traditional sense.
  • Wipe the cup attachments with rubbing alcohol after every use.

How often to use

For general wellness and recovery: 2-4 sessions per week, with 24-48 hours between sessions on the same area.

For acute pain or muscle tension: daily short sessions are fine, alternating between different muscle groups so you don't over-treat any one spot.

When NOT to use ShifaCup

Do not use cupping on:

  • Broken, irritated, or sunburned skin
  • Areas with active rashes, eczema, or open wounds
  • Directly over varicose veins
  • The face (use a face-specific cupping device for that)

Consult a medical professional before use if you are pregnant, have a chronic medical condition, are on blood thinners, or have a heart condition.

Need help?

Email shifacuplb@gmail.com with any questions about technique or use — we typically respond within 24 hours.