Buccal Massage – Is It Worth It?

Facial treatments come and go, but some techniques stand out for their unique approach and visible results. One of the most talked-about in recent years - Buccal massage. It might sound unusual — and it is. But for those in the know, it’s an incredibly effective tool for relieving jaw tension and enhancing facial contour.

Let’s dive into what it really is, who it’s for, and why it might just be the missing piece in your self-care routine.

What Is Buccal Massage?

Buccal massage is a specialised intraoral facial massage that works both inside and outside of the mouth to release deep muscular tension. The technique targets muscles like the masseter and buccinator, which play a key role in chewing, facial expression, and jaw movement. These muscles often hold a lot of unconscious tension — especially if you clench, grind your teeth, or deal with stress.

How Does It Work?

A typical buccal massage begins with external facial work to warm up the tissues. Then, with gloves on, I carefully work inside your cheeks, applying gentle but firm pressure to tight spots.

This technique:

• Improves blood flow and lymphatic drainage in the face
• Releases adhesions and fascia restrictions around the mouth and jaw
• Balances muscle tone, which can lift and sculpt facial contours

Though it might feel unusual at first, many people describe it as deeply relaxing and surprisingly satisfying as tension melts away.

Key Benefits of Buccal Massage

Buccal massage isn’t just about luxury — it offers real therapeutic and aesthetic benefits:

• Reduces TMJ pain and jaw tightness
• Alleviates headaches linked to muscle tension
• Contours the jawline and lifts facial features naturally
• Promotes lymphatic drainage, reducing puffiness
• Enhances skin glow and circulation
• Improves sinus drainage and breathability

It’s a perfect treatment if you want results without relying on fillers or injectables.

Who Should Try It?

This treatment is ideal especially for those who:

• Suffer from jaw clenching or TMJ discomfort
• Experience facial asymmetry or tightness
• Spend long hours at a desk or under stress, leading to facial tension
• Prefer natural beauty enhancements over cosmetic procedures

If you grind your teeth at night, hold tension in your jaw, or want a more sculpted look without chemicals, buccal massage is worth a try.

What to Expect in a Session

Sessions typically last 60 minutes. You’ll remain reclined and relaxed while I’ll alternate between external facial work and intraoral massage.

• Gloves are worn at all times during the intraoral portion
• You might feel unusual pressure at first, especially if your muscles are very tight
• As tension releases, the sensation often shifts to deep relaxation

You may notice an immediate lightness in your face, with a subtle sculpted appearance that improves with repeated sessions.

Frequency and Maintenance

While a single session can produce noticeable results, the effects are cumulative. For best results:

• Follow up with monthly maintenance
• Combine with manual lymphatic drainage for added benefits

This treatment pairs beautifully with holistic skincare, and/or gua sha for a truly integrative approach.

Contraindications

As with any hands-on therapy, buccal massage isn’t for everyone. Avoid if you have:

• Active dental infections, mouth ulcers, or recent dental surgery
• Severe TMJ dislocation or unstable jaw issues (unless cleared by a specialist)

Buccal massage is more than a beauty trend. It’s a deeply therapeutic treatment that taps into the often-overlooked connection between facial tension, stress, and overall wellbeing. It can help you look lifted and feel lighter — both inside and out.

If you’re looking for buccal massage in London or want to explore a more holistic facial therapy experience, I offer tailored sessions in Marylebone that combine both functional and holistic approach.

Book your buccal massage today — your jaw will thank you.

Marta Suchanska

Certified Massage Therapist / Year 4 Student Osteopath