Breadcrumbs ![Is Facial Massage Really Worth It?](https://media.sheerluxe.com/YDGwSC6mwcxAS9AUC2-wWnG5etQ=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2Fsl-site-assets-231026-facial-massage.jpg) Image: @The_Moments [Skincare](/beauty/skincare) / 23 October 2026 # Is Facial Massage Really Worth It? From buccal to lymphatic and sculptural massage, there are countless facial treatments promising more defined cheekbones and a fresher-looking complexion. But how do they differ and which ones deliver the most visible results? We asked two experts to explain each technique, including what it does and how to choose the right treatment for you. ByRebecca Hull / [ Save To My Favourites ](/user/login?destination=/markdownify/node/54613) Image: @The_Moments All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products. [ ![](https://media.sheerluxe.com/s8Q-ZAn5OUdMCl-SstsOYJkSf_8=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2Fsl-221026-facial-massage-1.gif) ](https://www.instagram.com/the_moments) @The_Moments ## How Facial Massages Differ… “I often use a combination of buccal, lymphatic and sculptural techniques in my treatments, but they each have a very different purpose and way of working with the face and each can be booked individually. Buccal massage focuses on the deeper facial muscles, particularly around the cheeks, jaw and mouth. What makes it unique is that it involves working both externally and inside the mouth, allowing access to muscles that are difficult to reach through traditional facial massage. The chewing muscles and jaw can hold a lot of tension, which may cause discomfort and affect how fluid drains from the face. “Lymphatic drainage is a much lighter, more rhythmic technique designed to encourage the natural movement of lymphatic fluid. It focuses less on the muscles and more on fluid movement and reducing water retention. Sculptural massage is more dynamic and works primarily with the facial muscles and surrounding tissues. Through lifting movements, kneading and carefully applied pressure, it helps release tension and enhance the appearance of facial definition. For me, the distinction is simple: lymphatic drainage focuses on fluid movement, sculptural massage works on muscular tension and facial contours, while buccal massage lets us work with the muscles from a completely different angle.” –[ *Ksenija Selivanova*](https://link.amazon/B0bClGBN3)*, facial massage expert* ## What’s Involved In Each Treatment… “Each technique offers a completely different experience. Lymphatic drainage is incredibly calming and gentle. Think of a light flow over the skin, as though there’s water underneath the surface and you’re guiding it towards a drain. The movements sweep from one side of the face to the other without breaking contact. It’s deeply relaxing and many clients are surprised by how little pressure is needed when the focus is on drainage. “Sculptural massage is more dynamic and quicker, using medium to firm pressure to bring warmth and blood to the surface. It uses a combination of lifting, sculpting and targeted movements to work through areas of muscular tension and give the face a more defined appearance. Buccal massage is probably the most unusual sensation if you haven’t experienced it before. The practitioner wears gloves and places a finger inside the mouth, then pulls and stretches the cheeks from within. Working deeply into the muscle from the side can feel uncomfortable but the release of tension can also feel great.” –[ *Michaella Bolder*](https://www.instagram.com/theboldermovement)*, facialist and founder of The Bolder Movement* [ ![](https://media.sheerluxe.com/ov8RDOt7szr2glzvLK2oJKga1t8=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2Fsl-221026-facial-massage-2.jpg) ](https://www.instagram.com/michaellabolder) @The_Moments; @Michaella_Bolder ## What To Expect At An Appointment… “The important thing is to get to know the client and try to understand how they’d like to feel when they leave. We start with questions like: do they wake up with puffiness? Do they clench their jaw? Are they noticing tension around the mouth or changes in facial definition? Are they looking for relaxation or something more targeted? We also discuss medical history, skincare routine, recent aesthetic procedures and anything else that could influence the treatment. We then assess the face, paying attention to areas of muscular tension, visible puffiness, natural asymmetry and how the tissue responds. From there, the treatment is tailored to the individual.” – *Ksenija* ## Which Skin Type Is Best Suited To Which Treatment… “Lymphatic drainage is particularly well suited to clients experiencing puffiness or fluid retention, especially around the eyes, cheeks and jawline. It can be a lovely option when the face feels heavy or looks less defined than usual. It’s also a fantastic technique for those with more sensitive skin. Sculptural massage is ideal for those who want to address facial tension while encouraging a more lifted, sculpted look: think a more defined jawline and cheekbones, a more open gaze and lifted brows. Buccal massage is especially effective for clients who carry tension around the jaw, grind or clench their teeth, or experience tension in the neck and shoulders. Long-term changes from these techniques do require consistency though. It’s important to distinguish between temporary changes in facial appearance and permanent structural changes. Massage can influence tension, fluid movement and the way facial contours appear, but it can’t permanently reposition facial fat, lift significantly lax skin or replace medical treatment for jaw disorders.” – *Ksenija* [ ![](https://media.sheerluxe.com/dVcVsAZGS6OnNxqoP6VMmhTtAz4=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2Fsl-221026-facial-massage-3.jpg) ](https://www.instagram.com/the_moments) @The_Moments ## How Combining Treatments Reaps Different Benefits… “It’s rare that one face needs just one type of massage. For example, we might begin with gentle lymphatic drainage to encourage fluid movement and address puffiness, then use sculptural techniques to release muscular tension, before incorporating buccal massage for a final lift and release. Rather than focusing on one movement in isolation, we need to encourage people to understand how different techniques can work together.” – *Michaella* ## When You’ll See Results… “Certain results can be visible immediately: the face may look more lifted and sculpted, with a glow and softened lines. These changes can last for days. The longevity varies considerably, though. Puffiness can return depending on sleep, hydration, hormonal fluctuations and other lifestyle factors. Muscular tension may reappear if someone continues to clench their jaw or carry stress in their face. Consistency and supportive lifestyle habits can help maintain results.” – *Ksenija* ## How Often You Should Be Booking Treatments… “There’s no universal rule; it depends on the individual, their concerns and how their skin and facial muscles respond. I usually recommend one treatment every other week for two or three sessions, followed by one session a month if your budget allows. At-home massage can be done daily, or three to five times a week if you have the time.” – *Michaella* ## Finally, Which Risks & Contraindications You Need To Know About… “Facial massage is generally well tolerated when performed correctly, but some contraindications apply. Active skin infections, cold sores, significant inflammation, open wounds, recent facial surgery or dental procedures can all be reasons to postpone or adapt a treatment. Particular care is needed following Botox, dermal fillers, threads or other aesthetic procedures. Clients should follow the advice of their treating clinician before booking facial massage. Buccal massage requires additional attention to hygiene and oral health. It can’t be performed if there are active mouth infections, ulcers or certain dental problems. People with suspected blood clots, significant cardiovascular conditions or conditions affecting lymphatic drainage may also need medical clearance, especially before lymphatic techniques. A properly trained practitioner should be able to explain when a treatment is appropriate, when it needs modifying and when it shouldn’t be performed.” – *Ksenija* [ ![](https://media.sheerluxe.com/rIHbhFdDaz9_abdT8JkV1x-L6Uo=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2Fsl-221026-facial-massage-5.jpg) ](https://www.instagram.com/the_moments_studio_london) @The_Moments_Studio_London [ ![](https://media.sheerluxe.com/14KMKRazxM5ziVCeRm9DAjLFRVc=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2Fsl-221026-facial-massage-4.gif) ](https://www.instagram.com/michaellabolder) @Michaella_Bolder ***DISCLAIMER**: Features published by SheerLuxe are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. Always seek the advice of your GP or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programme.* [ Sign in to comment with your SheerLuxe profile ](/user/login?destination=)Or continue to comment as a Guest below [View the discussion thread.](http://sheerluxe-dev.disqus.com/) *more from* Beauty [View All Beauty](/beauty) ![9 Beauty Buys Under £10 That Perform Like Luxury Products](https://media.sheerluxe.com/0QDb7rDH9we7ENDpGoEu3E8PJ9o=/200x267/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2Fsl-portrait-121026-rhea-beauty-under-ps10.jpg) [Beauty](/beauty) / 12 October 2026 [## 9 Beauty Buys Under £10 That Perform Like Luxury Products ](/beauty/9-beauty-buys-under-ps10-that-perform-like-luxury-products) ![October’s Best New Beauty Buys](https://media.sheerluxe.com/dtQtiM8zUW6qBcRXTrwEf-5afAI=/200x267/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2Fsl-site-assets-081026-october-new-beauty-hero-thumb.jpg) [Beauty](/beauty) / 08 October 2026 [## October’s Best New Beauty Buys ](/beauty/octobers-best-new-beauty-buys-0) ![Everything Our Beauty Director Is Buying, Booking & Using Right Now](https://media.sheerluxe.com/BcyLvVb1_c0MVPlDtTDpoAPOaV0=/200x267/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2Fsite-assest-071026-what-our-beauty-director-is-buying-right-now-hero-thumb.jpg) [Beauty](/beauty) / 07 October 2026 [## Everything Our Beauty Director Is Buying, Booking & Using Right Now ](/beauty/everything-our-beauty-director-is-buying-booking-using-right-now) ![8 Cult Pharmacy Buys French Girls Swear By](https://media.sheerluxe.com/WFyNRV6OTRdmWEtwXPO-YtmXLIU=/200x267/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2Fsl-site-assets-061026-alex-french-pharmacy-hero-thumb.jpg) [Beauty](/beauty) / 06 October 2026 [## 8 Cult Pharmacy Buys French Girls Swear By ](/beauty/8-cult-pharmacy-buys-french-girls-swear-by) ![Want To Invest In An LED Mask? 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