Has anyone else’s FYP been filled with TikTok’s obsession with Bella Hadid’s cheekbones? If you’re as intrigued as I am, I’m here to tell you there’s a technique that will instantly give you that snatched look: buccal massage. Beloved by celebrities like J.Lo and Meghan Markle and with over 83 million views on TikTok, #buccalmassage offers a non-invasive way temporarily achieve those coveted cheekbones.
To learn more about the benefits of buccal massage, I turned to estheticians Maria Cristina Bruno, founder of Fix Facial Bar in Toronto, Canada, and Amanda Jeppesen, founder of Sous La Face with locations in Toronto, Canada and Los Angeles.
What is Buccal Massage?
Buccal massage, also known as intraoral massage, is performed in the buccal cavity — the inside area of your cheeks. Unlike traditional facials, this technique works its magic from the inside of your mouth. “By working those deep facial muscles, buccal massage helps combat jaw tension, sagging muscles, and promotes deep tissue release,” explains Jeppesen.
Additionally, buccal massage is said to offer even more beauty benefits. “The treatment sculpts the jawline and lower face, plumps the skin by increasing circulation and blood flow, and tones facial muscles over time,” says Bruno.
Buccal massage helps to achieve a temporary sculpted appearance by addressing two key factors. “By draining lymphatic fluid from your face, it reduces puffiness and minimizes any swollen appearance,” explains Bruno. Simultaneously, this technique targets your fat pads, facia, and facial muscles from both inside and out, unlocking tension and lengthening muscles that can become shortened and tense. It’s kind of like Pilates for your face.
