A Unique Beauty Treatment Beloved By US Celebrities Has Finally Landed In Adelaide

Since starting an apprenticeship at the Intercontinental Sydney as a sixteen-year-old, Shannon Lewis has spent three decades in the beauty industry. “I’ve been doing it pretty much my whole life,” she laughs as she describes a journey that has taken in plenty of highlights, including being awarded Endota’s Beauty Therapist of the Year in 2019. And if there’s one she’s learned along the way, it’s the importance of keeping up with the latest trends.

That’s how the owner of SHA Skin & Body at 3 The Parade first came across Buccal Massages. This innovative technique relieves tension in the muscles around the face, “but it’s not a standard facial,” explains Shannon. “I massage all 17 major muscles of the face, which improves blood flow, helps to sculpt around the jowls and assists with lymphatic drainage and fibrosis removal… And no skincare or machinery can do a facial like this because I’m massaging the muscles from the inside out.”

Shannon admits that the treatment “can feel a little strange at first,” because it requires her to insert her fingers into the client’s mouth. But by slowly working on the lips and easing into the cheek massage, she keeps it as relaxing as possible. “The clients don't have to open their mouths or bite down on anything and once they get past the first couple of seconds, they realise that it's quite nice and their jaw feels really good,” she says.

By loosening the jaw muscles that pull the face downwards, Buccal Massage can help to eliminate fine lines and result in a noticeable lift for the entire face. As a result, Shannon has had plenty of clients coming in before big events like weddings but she says this change in appearance is actually a side effect of the treatment.

“Injectables and fillers alter your appearance without treating the root cause of the problem,” she explains. “But this treats the effects of ageing by improving circulation. And because it removes built-up fibrosis it can also help with inflammation and pigmentation… A lot of men don't want Botox or fillers but still want to look after their skin and overall wellbeing so this treatment is also perfect for them.”

Though it’s only a recent phenomenon, Buccal Massage is already a hit with A-listers like Meghan Markle, Kate Moss, Jennifer Lopez, Kristen Bell and Marc Jacobs. As the first professional to offer the unconventional technique in Adelaide, Shannon has been overwhelmed by the response since opening at the start of this year and it’s no surprise that she has already attracted several local clients who make use of the off-road parking and private entrance to keep a low profile.

In addition to the Buccal Massage, SHA offers full body massages and a range of treatments with a focus on advanced skincare and holistic rejuvenation. Looking forward, Shannon hopes to grow the business into an integrated wellness space offering coaching, sound therapy and breathwork. But for now, she is working hard to ensure that she provides a welcoming environment for clients with calming music, soft lighting and thoughtful aftercare. “This is more a spa or wellness space than a clinic,” she explains. “I want to make everyone feel special when they walk in, so every treatment is designed to elevate your wellbeing and unleash your natural radiance.”

Mention the Parade Blog when you book your Buccal Facial and you can try this groundbreaking technique for just $299