Known for its ability to sculpt your features and release tension, the buccal facial is the industry’s most popular treatment.
Celebs such as Jennifer Lopez, Kristen Bell and Meghan Markle are all said to be fans of the treatment too, thanks to its ability to make the skin glow and define facial features.
The treatment is centred around internally massaging the buccinator muscle (hence the name). Because of its location inside the cheeks, it often holds a lot of tension due to stress and jaw clenching. Thanks to the expert hands of a therapist, the buccal massage enables muscles to relax and tension to be reduced.
As a TMJ sufferer myself, I jumped at my chance to a range of different buccal treatments by renowned therapists in Sydney.
Here’s everything I learnt about the buzz-worthy facials on offer.
Buccal Fusion Facial, April Brodie
I was lucky enough to visit renowned April Brodie for her Bee Venom facial last year (Kate Middleton is said to also be a fan). So when I was invited back to experience her buccal treatment, I knew I’d be in for a treat. As one of the few therapists to perform this specialised facial, April is a wealth of knowledge surrounding the buccal muscle, facial techniques and skincare.
What is it?
“It’s a strange but wonderful treatment involving massaging inside the mouth. It works on the muscle fibres to create a lifting effect, manually sculpting and working the muscles and fascia that have become lax and sagged over time, or tight and stiffened by clenching the jaw” explains April.
How long do the results last?
“It differs for every person, but I find the more treatments they have, the better the facial posture sits [and] the longer the results. It’s important to note that optimal results are often seen with a monthly schedule, although some individuals may simply want to enjoy the experience of a buccal facial as a unique treat” she notes.
My verdict:
April’s treatment was everything I expected. Incredibly relaxing, hydrating and soothing- especially for my dry/sensitive skin type. April was so thorough and took the time to explain each step as she performed it, and when it came to the internal massage, she could identify where I held the most tension and paid extra attention to the area. I was so impressed with the immediate results as my features looked so defined and lifted. It’s no wonder it’s a celebrity favourite!
Face Sculpting and Buccal Massage Treatment, Pippa James
Nestled away in her Stanmore salon, Pippa offers 2 hours of bliss with her specialised sculpting and buccal massage. Promising to lift, tone and sculpt my face, I was eager to put this treatment to the test.
What is it?
“The Face Sculpting and Buccal Massage Treatment at my salon is designed to sculpt, lift and tone your face using precise movements and techniques. First, I activate the lymphatic system in the upper chest and face area to help drain fluid and create flow, then move into sculpting and lifting the muscles, melting tension. When it’s time for the buccal massage, I work from the inside [of the mouth], releasing the facial muscles. There is particular emphasis on the muscles around the buccinator muscle which is located in the cheek area” she says.
Can we incorporate these massage techniques at home?
While there’s no denying the benefits of an in-salon experience, if you’re keen to lift and sculpt at home, Pippa says it is possible. “Whenever you are applying a product with a bit of slip like an oil cleanser, face oil, moisturiser or even your SPF, you can work on areas of concern and spend time lifting in upward strokes.”
My verdict:
This was easily one of best treatments I’ve ever had. From start to finish, Pippa worked her magic gently cleansing and massaging my face, neck and chest before moving on to the buccal massage. She created such a safe and warm environment that allowed me to be truly relaxed. I’ll be booking to see her again ASAP.
Intrinsic Illumination Infusion, Isabella Loneragan Skin
Known not only for her expertise in performing incredible treatments, Isabella also passes on her knowledge to other therapists. I was lucky enough to be one of the first to experience a new version of her buccal facial.
What is it?
This 90-minute sculpting treatment involves three different techniques: Buccal massage, Kobido, and Chuanzhi Chinese acupressure points. This combination stimulates the facial muscles, encourages circulation and lymphatic drainage.
What to expect?
For the internal buccal massage, Isabella targets muscles deep within the cheek. Releasing tightness around the jaw and cheekbone, alleviating muscle tension, jaw pain and headaches.
My verdict:
I could tell straight away that Isabella’s three-technique treatment was going to benefit my skin. Yes it was relaxing and I definitely walked away looking more sculpted than when I arrived, but I was also pleasantly surprised with the skincare results. Throughout the treatment, she used her own brand Ragan Skin which my dry skin loved. My complexion looked rosy and healthy, and I noticed my jaw tension had dramatically decreased in the following days.
