Everything You Need To Know About Buccal Massage: Expert Beauty Guide

Published on December 29, 2023

In 2023, we saw various beauty treatments rise, and one of them is buccal massage. With your every scroll through TikTok or Instagram, chances are you’ll see someone trying it for themselves. Or,  a video advertisement for some medical spa. 

When we think of massage, we imagine a therapist manually applying pressure to a patient’s muscles and tissues. It is done mainly to improve their physical and mental state. Yet, there are types of massages that aren’t only for relaxation or injury management. They are also for beauty purposes. 

There are many innovative cosmetic and wellness solutions. One of them is buccal massage. We’ll spoil it, it is good. Keep reading as we’ll discuss everything there is to know about it. We’ll talk about what it is, its benefits, what you can expect, and its safety. We’ll also rule out how long the effects last. Also, what you should do afterward. Let’s start.

What Is a Buccal Massage?

Buccal or intraoral massage involves massage of pressure points inside the mouth. It is done to stimulate the muscles and ligaments in the buccal fat pad. Upon doing, it tightens and contours the area. This beauty treatment can render the same result as dermal fillers when done consistently. Yet, it doesn’t need needles and potential side effects. The procedure also involves massage of other facial areas too. 

When facial tissues stiffen due to stress, injury, overactive jaw, or medical disorder, they obstruct many things. They obstruct blood flow, lymphatic circulation, and detoxification. Tissues also do not acquire enough nutrients and oxygen. It then will lead to water retention. It will introduce puffiness. Moreover, a dull complexion. Finally, drooping cheeks and jowls. Buccal massage will resolve all of these dilemmas. It stores numerous skin benefits.

Buccal Massage Target Areas 

During a buccal massage, the provider massages the following: 

1. Inside of the mouth
2. Shoulders
3. Neck
4. Chin and the area underneath
5. Jaw
6. Lips and mouth
7. Nasolabial folds
8. Around the nose
9. Eye area

Benefits of Buccal Massage

1. Improved blood circulation 

Like all kinds of massages, buccal massages involve applying manual pressure. It is done to muscles and ligaments. It enhances blood flow. Likewise, it boosts circulation.

2. Excess fluid removal and reduced puffiness 

Buccal face massage also aids in draining excess fluids. It acts to depuff the mid-face area. It can also alleviate dark under-eye circles. 

3. Tighter skin on the lower face 

Relaxing the facial and neck muscles that pull down on the jawline can lift the skin. It renders a temporary non-surgical facelift effect. 

4. Rejuvenated appearance 

Buccal face massage introduce improved blood flow. It also render increased circulation. More importantly, a lifted lower face. Combining the three, you’ll find a more youthful appearance. 

5. Clearer skin and reduced acne 

Acne can manifest due to poor circulation. It can also be because of a blocked lymphatic system. Buccal massage helps detoxify the area. It can reduce breakouts. It can clear your skin. 

6. Less tension in the lower face 

Buccal massage helps relieve tension in the lower face. Pressure happens due to stress—and repeated jaw clenching. 

7. Reduced chronic pain 

Buccal massage relieves jaw tension. It can ease related symptoms such as headaches and facial pain. This procedure is also helpful in managing TMJ disorders. 

8. Reduce sinus discomfort 

By boosting circulation and lymphatic flow, buccal massage helps drain mucus. In doing so, you lessen sinus discomfort. 

Does Buccal Massage Work?

Yes. Buccal massage is a unique preventative and corrective technique. It blends facial sculpting with an intra-oral massage. In doing so, you can access muscles that are generally not addressed. It is a beautiful treatment for sculpting, relaxing, and improving lower facial tone.

What Can You Expect During a Buccal Massage?

The provider prepares the patients for buccal massage by massaging their shoulders and neck. It is to improve lymphatic flow. Then, they make their way toward the chin, jaw, and around the mouth. It is done to stimulate the muscles. 

Some providers may start from the crease of the nose downward toward the chin. They ought to massage the muscles around the mouth and lips. Then, proceed to the oral cavity. 

Upon the central part of the treatment, the providers will clean their hands. After, put on disposable gloves to safeguard against infection in the patient’s mouth. They use circulation motions and massage the inside of the mouth. They will use their thumbs and index fingers. All while using the other fingers to massage the outside, cheeks, nasolabial folds, around the nose, and the eyes. The provider also stretches the patient’s lips sideways and pulls them up. They will hold them for several seconds and will release them. 

The treatment takes half an hour to a full hour.

Is Buccal Massage Safe?

Buccal massage is safe in the hands of experienced and qualified cosmetic professionals. It’s best to go to a reputable medical spa. Inexperienced providers without knowledge of facial anatomy may introduce medical dilemmas. They may bring irritation. Also, inflammation. Finally, infection to the patient’s mouth.

Should Anyone Avoid Buccal Massage?

Buccal massage is safe for most people. Yet, the following patients may need to postpone the treatment: 

1. Patients who had Botox or fillers in the previous two weeks 
2. Those with skin infections, eczema, or psoriasis 
3. Patients with active breakouts 
4. Patients with thyroid issues 
5. Patients with local disease and irritation 
6. Those with bleeding gums 
7. Those with cold sore outbreaks
8. Those with lymphatic issues 
9. Pregnant patients 

How Long Do the Effects of Buccal Face Massage Last?

Buccal face massage brings in immediate results. How long it lasts will depend on the stress level in your lifestyle. 

Like gel nails and hair color, consistent maintenance acquires the best outcomes. If you’re specifically fixating on sculpting and want to use massage as an alternative to filler or Botox, you want to come in once every two weeks. It is for the first two to three months. Then, once the muscles are toned and plump, it’s more about continuance.

What Should I Do After a Bucal Massage Session?

You will feel deeply relaxed after your session. Yet, your facial muscles might feel a little weary. Depending on your level of tension going into the treatment, your face or jaw may feel sore, achy, or tender. If so, lay a warm compress. It helps to soothe the muscles. 

It’s vital to stay well hydrated, too. It will help flush any toxins released during the session. Continuing your normal daily activities is fine. But, you should take it easy for the day.