Today, everyone seems obsessed with skincare treatments, from chemical peels to buccal face massages. While injectables and cosmetic procedures can offer instant results, many people are turning to non-invasive alternatives that enhance their natural beauty. If you’re looking for a treatment that promotes sculpting, relaxation and skin rejuvenation without needles or downtime, then a buccal massage should be on your radar.

“Buccal massages really make a great difference in releasing tension and stress in your jaw, which carries a lot of tension,” said Lisset Tresvant, an esthetician and owner of Glow Esthetics Spa. “It’s a great alternative to having to get Botox, a face-lift, or fillers.”

The buccal massage treatment is popular because it sculpts, de-puffs and de-wrinkles the face. This method is quickly becoming a go-to method for those seeking a more youthful, refreshed appearance. Whether you’re new to the concept or considering adding it to your routine, here’s everything you need to know about buccal massage.

What Is a Buccal Face Massage?

A buccal face massage is a skincare technique. This facial differs from others because it not only massages the external facial muscles, but the inside of the mouth as well. Referred to as the “inner-cheek massage,” buccal face massages shape, lift and relieve tension in the face.

Along with the physical attributes, these massages offer a load of emotional and spiritual benefits. Similar to most massages, a buccal face massage helps relieve stress in the face. It acts as a form of lymphatic drainage, helping to detoxify the skin. Buccal face massages also boost circulation in the skin, increasing blood flow for a natural glow and skin elasticity. Tresvant mentioned that some of her clients rely on buccal face massages to de-stress them, specifically after experiencing jaw tightness or a bad migraine.

“A lot of my clients get headaches, have [temporomandibular joint] disorders, or feel like they clench their jaws at night,” she explained to 21Ninety. “It’s helped with releasing tension from their jaw, releasing stress and letting go of emotional build up.”

The massages also can help your skin absorb products easier.

How Fast Does Buccal Massage Work?

According to Tresvant, people can see the results of a buccal face massage almost instantly. However, people tend to see the best results after four to six weeks.

Similar to other skincare treatments, consistency and practice is key with this massage. This means that the more you get a buccal face massage, the easier it will be for your skin to adapt to lymphatic drainage. This temporary treatment can offer long term sculpting and shaping when done consistently.

“As long as you continue doing [buccal face massage] it’s going to tighten your skin, so the results will eventually be everlasting,” Tresvant said.

How Often Should You Do A Buccal Face Massage?

Since it’s such a non-invasive technique, you can essentially do this massage as much as you want.

“There isn’t a time frame on how often you can do it,” Tresvant said. “It’s not done with any machines, you’re just using your hands. We’re just releasing tension, [and] massaging the face.”

It may be especially beneficial to practice after a heavy night of drinking, which can sometimes cause your face to swell, or after experiencing a stressful day. Even people who have botox and fillers can get buccal face massages. As long as you wait a couple weeks in between your sessions, it’s fine and won’t compromise your treatments.

How to Do A Buccal Face Massage At Home

Although most estheticians offer buccal face massages as a service, you can successfully do the treatment at home with the right steps. Tresvant suggests incorporating the facial massage after cleansing and right before applying your serums.

To effectively achieve the massage at home, first use a cream, serum or oil with lots of slip to help your hands glide seamlessly across the face. According to Tresvant, some recommendations to use include natural shea butter, rose oil and hemp oil.

“You’re going to put your hand into the back of your jaw. Put your thumb in there and massage [your cheeks] upward,” Tresvant explained, adding that your hands should be massaging in circular motion toward our mouth.

Ultimately, Tresvant believes Black women deserve to pamper themselves.

“There’s a lot of things that you can do at home, but if you have the ability to allow someone else to do it the benefits are so much better,” Tresvant said.

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