This may be done in several ways. The most elaborate is the method of connecting a vacuum pump with a small bell jar having a cock in its top. This is applied to the skin, and the removal of the air immediately causes a hyperemia of the part under the bell. In a moment or so the cup is removed and re-applied in the same manner to the adjacent skin.

Another less elaborate method consists of a small glass cup to the top of which is connected a heavy rubber bulb. Grasping this firmly in the hand and compressing it, the cup is applied to the skin and the grasp on the bulb released. This, of course, makes a partial vacuum, and the same effect is produced as in the previous method, but to a more moderate extent.

Finally, and most commonly, is used an ordinary small glass; a whiskey glass or a claret tumbler make a good size. To proceed with this all that is necessary is a candle and a little alcohol. Wipe the inside of the glass with alcohol, light it at the candle, and as the flame is extinguished place the glass on the skin, and in a few seconds the rarefied air in the tumbler will have contracted sufficently to make a very respectable negative pressure, and just as good a "pull" will be obtained as with the vacuum pump. Remove the glass, wipe it again with alcohol, ignite it, and apply as before. This procedure may be repeated until a sufficient degree of hyperaemia has been produced. In removing the cup, whether it be exhausted by air pump, bulb, or alcohol flame, do not try to pull it off by main strength. Press firmly with the forefinger on the skin just at the edge of the glass, and at the same time push the finger under the glass, tilting it with the other hand. This allows the air to come under the edge, and the glass comes off easily.