The A-Lister Facial That’s Got Hollywood Talking
It’s not every day someone gives your jawline a workout from inside your mouth. But that’s exactly what happened when I signed up for a buccal facial — the A-lister-approved treatment that’s part deep-tissue massage, part sculpting sorcery. Loved by the likes of Meghan Markle and Kate Moss, this peculiar-sounding ritual is fast becoming the insider’s secret to a snatched, de-puffed face — and yes, it’s as strange (and fabulous) as it sounds. It’s one of the most bizarrely brilliant beauty treatments I’ve ever tried. Here’s the low-down.
So… what is a buccal facial?
In short? It’s the facial that dares to go where no other treatment has gone before—inside your mouth. The word “buccal” refers to the cheek area, and this deep-tissue facial involves your therapist massaging your face both externally and internally (yes, you read that right) using their fingers to knead out the tension in your jaw, cheeks, and facial muscles.
This intra-oral technique can naturally lift, sculpt and contour, reduce puffiness and stimulate the lymphatic system.
Holly Warren, Holistic Facialist & Energy Healer
What to expect (besides the mouth invasion!)
Expect a bit of giggling at first—because it is strange to have someone essentially poking around your gums in the name of glow. But once you settle in, the magic happens. The therapist massages areas of your face that never get attention—think jaw, cheeks, and even the inside of your lips. It boosts circulation, releases built-up stress, and leaves your face looking sculpted, de-puffed, and suspiciously like you’ve had “work” done—without the needles.
How is it different from a regular facial?
Regular facials focus on the surface—cleansing, exfoliating, massaging, masking. Lovely pampering stuff, that we all love, however buccal facials go below the surface, working into the muscle structure of the face. It’s part facial, part deep-tissue massage. And where most facials leave you blissfully relaxed, buccal facials wake you up—in a “wow, I feel lifted!” way.
Who should try one?
• Jaw-clenchers and teeth-grinders
• Anyone prone to puffiness or facial bloating
• People wanting to sculpt their cheekbones and jawline without filler
• Those curious to explore the “inside-out” approach to skincare
• Anyone who’s up for trying the latest trend in the name of wellness
The treatment offers a great relief for those who suffer with TMJ (tenderness in jaw joints and surrounding muscles) discomfort and those who seek a more holistic natural alternative treatment.
PS: if you’ve had cosmetic filler or recent dental work, check with your practitioner first—this facial goes deep.
Where to go?
If you’re in London, you’re spoilt for choice with buccal masters:
• Nichola Joss – Often dubbed The Queen of Facial Sculpting, her signature inside-out technique is the stuff of celebrity legend. Meghan Markle and Gisele are fans—and after one session, you will be too.
• Bodyism Notting Hill – The go-to for the wellness elite. Their sculpting facials include buccal massage and feel like a reset button for your face.
• Adeela Crown – Known for her couture sculpting and A-list glow-ups.
• FaceGym – Their Signature Sculpt includes intraoral massage and leaves you red-carpet ready.
• Lisa Franklin Clinic – Luxe, discreet, and very results-driven.
• GA Salons– Expect top-trained therapists in this well-kept secret beauty destination.
