Searching for a plain-English comparison of hijama and dry cupping in South London? This guide explains what each method actually involves, how each feels, and the hygiene differences that matter — so you can ask the right questions and book with clear expectations.
The short answer
Dry cupping uses suction only — no skin is opened. Hijama (wet cupping) adds a second step: shallow incisions are made after the initial suction, and cups are reapplied to draw a small amount of fluid through the skin. Both are complementary therapies. Neither treats, prevents or diagnoses any medical condition.
What is dry cupping, and what actually happens?
In dry cupping, a cup is placed on the skin and suction is created — usually by briefly heating the air inside a glass cup, or by squeezing and releasing a silicone cup. Glass cups are the traditional form; silicone cups are now common because they allow suction without heat. The skin and the tissue just below the surface are drawn upward into the cup. Cups are left in place for several minutes, then removed.
The circular marks that follow dry cupping are caused by the suction drawing blood to the surface. They are not conventional bruises and typically fade within three to ten days, depending on skin type and the depth of suction applied.
No skin is opened at any point. The infection-control requirements are therefore lower than for wet cupping, though any reputable clinic still uses clean technique and clean equipment throughout — and should be transparent about both if asked.
What is hijama (wet cupping) and how is it different?
Hijama follows the same initial suction step, then adds a controlled second stage. After the first set of cups are applied and removed, the practitioner makes very small, shallow incisions on the raised skin using a sterile single-use lancet. Cups are then reapplied over those points to draw a small amount of fluid — a mix of blood, plasma and interstitial material — through the skin surface.
At Sincerity Cupping Clinic, every wet cupping appointment begins with a proper consultation — no shortcuts. Sister Aisha Mejri and Brother Abu Layla, both with 20+ years each in hijama practice, review your health history, current medications, skin condition and comfort level before any cups are placed. If anything suggests the session should be deferred — pregnancy, blood-thinning medication, diabetes, or an active skin infection — you will be told clearly at this stage, not after. Only single-use sterile equipment touches the skin: lancets, cups and dressings are opened in front of you and disposed of properly after each session. A full wet cupping session runs 60-75 minutes, priced from £45. The clinic is at 330 Streatham High Rd SW16 6HH, open every day 10:00-19:00. Our 100+ verified reviews reflect consistent, careful practice from practitioners who have been doing this well for decades.
Because wet cupping opens the skin, the infection-control standard is not optional. Single-use sterile equipment is not a selling point — it is the minimum any client should expect at a clinic offering hijama.
How do the two methods compare at a glance?
| Feature | Dry cupping | Hijama (wet cupping) |
|---|---|---|
| Skin opened? | No | Yes — small, shallow incisions |
| Typical session length | 20–40 minutes | 60-75 minutes including consultation |
| Marks after the session | Circular, fades in 3–10 days | Circular plus incision sites, fades in 5–14 days |
| Infection-control priority | Standard clean technique | Strict single-use sterile equipment essential |
| Suitable during pregnancy? | Usually not — check with your midwife first | Generally avoided — always check first |
Which method might suit me?
This is worth discussing at consultation rather than deciding alone. Some practical points:
- Dry cupping is chosen by many clients for warmth and relaxation goals, and by those who prefer no skin opening.
- Hijama is the traditional Islamic form cited in Sunnah texts. Clients following this practice for spiritual or religious reasons often specifically request wet cupping.
- Suitability applies to both. If you are pregnant, taking blood-thinning medication, have diabetes, or have an active skin condition in the area, please discuss this before booking either method. Your practitioner may defer your session or recommend you speak with your GP first.
Sincerity Cupping Clinic specialises in wet cupping (hijama). If you are unsure which approach is right for you, contact us before booking — we would rather answer your questions first than discover a mismatch on the day.
What should I ask any clinic before booking?
- Do you use single-use sterile equipment for every wet cupping client?
- Are your practitioners fully insured?
- Is there a health consultation before every session?
- Can I choose a same-sex practitioner?
- What does the quoted price include — consultation, equipment and aftercare?
A clinic that answers all five clearly is likely operating to a proper standard. One that hesitates or deflects is worth questioning before you commit.
Where is Sincerity Cupping Clinic and how do I book?
We see clients from across South London — Streatham, Balham, Brixton, Tooting, Clapham, Dulwich, Herne Hill, West Norwood and further afield. The full treatment overview, including preparation and aftercare guidance, is on our hijama services page. For local travel details, the Streatham area guide covers routes, bus stops and parking options nearby.
For a step-by-step walkthrough of the session from arrival to aftercare — including what the consultation covers and what to bring on the day — read what to expect at your first hijama appointment before you book.