Buccal Massage: A Deep Dive into Your Face

Buccal massage. It sounds fancy, almost medical, but in reality, it’s a glorified way of saying someone is going to stick their hands inside your mouth and start massaging your face from the inside out. Is it weird? Absolutely. Is it effective? Well, that depends on who you ask. Some swear by its sculpting powers, others raise an eyebrow (or try to, if their face isn’t too relaxed). But one thing’s for sure—it’s gaining popularity in the beauty and wellness world, with celebrities and facialists hailing it as the holy grail of non-invasive face sculpting.

Let’s get into the juicy details—the good, the bad, and the slightly uncomfortable.

Why People Love It

Sculpting and Lifting Without the Scalpel

If you’ve been chasing that chiselled, defined jawline but can’t be bothered with fillers or, you know, exercise, buccal massage claims to be your shortcut. The deep tissue movements help drain excess fluid, de-puff your face, and give you that elusive “snatched” look. Think of it as contouring, but instead of makeup, it’s your actual bone structure taking centre stage.

Unlike traditional facials that mainly focus on the surface, buccal massage gets deep—literally. By working on the muscles inside your mouth, it claims to lift everything from within, giving a more natural-looking result. Some people even say their cheekbones pop like never before after just one session.

A Workout for Your Face

Just like your body, your facial muscles need love. Buccal massage stimulates the muscles from the inside, supposedly preventing sagging and keeping everything toned. Some even compare it to a facelift without surgery, though that might be a touch optimistic.

It’s also a great way to combat the effects of ageing. Over time, facial muscles weaken and gravity takes over. Buccal massage helps keep those muscles engaged, supporting the skin and preventing droopiness. So if you’re into anti-ageing but not ready for needles or scalpels, this might be a natural alternative.

Tension Release You Didn’t Know You Needed

Clenchers, grinders, and stress-induced jaw lockers—this one’s for you. Buccal massage helps release tension stored in the jaw, cheeks, and even the temples. If your face constantly feels tight from hours of staring at screens or dealing with life, this might be the reset button you need.

People who suffer from TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder) or frequent headaches due to jaw clenching have reported relief after buccal massage. The deep tissue work can ease muscle stiffness and even improve bite alignment over time.

Better Circulation, Glowier Skin

It’s like a lymphatic drainage massage but for your face. By stimulating blood flow, buccal massage can help improve skin tone, reduce puffiness, and give you that fresh, post-holiday glow—minus the actual holiday. Increased circulation means more oxygen and nutrients delivered to your skin, which can help with cell regeneration and overall radiance.

And let’s not forget about detoxification. The lymphatic system plays a huge role in keeping our skin clear and healthy. Buccal massage promotes lymphatic drainage, helping to flush out toxins and reduce water retention.

The Less Glamorous Side

It’s… Unusual

Let’s be honest—having someone’s fingers working inside your mouth is not the most relaxing experience. There’s a fine line between therapeutic and slightly invasive, and buccal massage walks it like a tightrope. Some people love it, others find it deeply uncomfortable.

If you’re the type who gags easily at the dentist, this might not be your ideal self-care ritual. The first session can feel a bit strange, but many people get used to it after a few tries.

Not for the Faint-Jawed

If you have TMJ issues, dental work, or any jaw sensitivities, this might not be your best friend. While it can help release tension, it can also trigger discomfort if not done properly. Proceed with caution, and always go to a trained professional who understands jaw anatomy.

It’s also not recommended if you’ve had recent dental surgery, as it can put unnecessary pressure on healing tissues.

Results Are Temporary

Yes, you’ll walk out of the session looking sculpted and refreshed, but don’t expect the results to last forever. Like any good workout, consistency is key. If you want to maintain that lifted look, you’ll need regular sessions—or start doing some DIY face yoga at home.

For best results, experts recommend getting buccal massage once a week for a few weeks, then spacing it out to once a month for maintenance. But let’s be real—not everyone has the time (or budget) for that level of upkeep.

Not a Budget-Friendly Habit

If you’re looking for a one-off treat, great. But if you’re hoping for long-term results, get ready to invest. Professional buccal massages can be pricey, especially if you want to keep up with them regularly.

Prices vary depending on where you go, but a high-quality session from a reputable facialist can cost anywhere from £80 to £200 per session. Some luxury spas offer it as part of a bespoke facial, which can be even pricier.

Should You Try It?

If you love a good facial, enjoy trying unconventional beauty treatments, or just really need to relax your jaw, then buccal massage could be worth a shot. It’s one of those things that sounds strange but can feel oddly amazing once you get past the initial weirdness. However, if the idea of someone’s fingers inside your mouth makes you cringe, maybe stick to your trusty gua sha or a good old-fashioned nap.

For those who are curious but hesitant, there are also DIY versions. Some facialists offer tutorials, and there are plenty of online videos showing you how to perform a gentler version at home. Just make sure your hands are clean—because, well, hygiene.

Either way, the quest for the perfect jawline continues.