Buccal massage and holistic facial

Buccal – or intra-oral massage - is a specialised (non-surgical) face massage method which targets both externally and internally of the mouth.

It provides a unique way to aid release of facial and muscle tension.

It works by releasing the muscle tension, aiding circulation and lymphatic drainage.

Rima Shah designed and was the lead tutor of the Neal’s Yard Remedies Holistic Facials course for the initial 10 years, training other practitioners about how to do the Neal’s Yard Remedies Holistic Facial.

The session starts with consultation, where details about your skin type, skin routine and general lifestyle considerations are taken and also ruling out any contra-indications.

The treatment begins with a deep cleanse of the skin and décolleté area.

This will be followed by a deeper face massage, after which the intra-oral buccal massage will be done. 

For this, the inside of the mouth/cheeks will be massaged along with the external areas.  The therapist will wear surgical gloves to work on the inside of the mouth.

The rest of the treatment may include a mask, and moisturiser. The specific products used will vary according to your individual requirements, therefore giving you a bespoke treatment.

The whole treatment does not just stop at the face but includes face, head, shoulders, neck and décolleté area.

The session ends with comprehensive aftercare advice on lifestyle, general health improvements and skin care advice.

Following the treatment clients have reported feeling a deep level of relaxation and peace. In addition their skin was said to feel fresher and smoother, and looked clearer and more radiant.

Regular treatments will provide long term benefits and a greater sense of well-being.

The whole session lasts for 1 hour, and is an ideal solution for relaxing, toning and reviving the skin and facial muscles.

Ultimately, with the Holistic facial and buccal massage treatment you should experience a relaxing and pleasurable treatment, which leaves you relaxed and revived.

The intra-oral buccal massage has a range of benefits, both aesthetically and holistically.

By target and toning the muscles around the mouth it can help with muscle tone.  This leads to a gentle ‘lift’ to the cheek and jawline.  More regular sessions provide a more defined change.

Combined with the other facial treatments, such as my Vodder decongestive lymphatic drainage, it can provide additional benefits to the complexion and reducing puffiness.

The jaw tension can also create TMJ syndrome and by working on reducing the muscle tension it could provide TMJ relief (I also have training in specific TMJ massage).  Sinus pressure relief is also another added benefit many have felt.

Contraindications to buccal massage

• Oral infections - like oral thrush, herpes/cold sores
• Recent dental treatment - recent fillings, extractions, crowns etc
• Mouth/oral ulcers
• Severe TMJ - if very inflammed and painful
• Gum disease - inflamed and bleeding gums
• Teeth braces and retainers
• Blood disorders - such as haemophilia, low platelet count etc
• Allergies to surgical gloves or latex
• Lip fillers and botox - please allow a minimum of 6 weeks post fillers before having this treatment

Please speak to us if any of these apply to you.