Kobido Up®️ is a modern interpretation of the ancient Japanese Kobido massage – a sculpting, rhythmical and deeply fascial technique designed to revive the face from within. This exceptionally effective ritual works across the face, neck and shoulders, combining lymphatic drainage with lifting and contouring movements to enhance circulation, stimulate collagen and release tension held in the jaw and neck.

Throughout the treatment, precise techniques of varying intensity are used to restore balance to the facial muscles and awaken deeper layers of the skin, fascia and nervous system.

A completely natural alternative to more invasive aesthetic treatments.

As every face responds in its own unique way, results reflect the individuality of each client, enhancing your skin’s natural expression rather than creating a uniform outcome.

Kobido Up®️ is not a standard facial massage.

It is a highly technical Japanese lifting technique that works on muscle tone, fascia, lymph flow and skin vitality.

The treatment creates:

•⁠  ⁠Lifted facial contours

•⁠  ⁠Reduced puffiness

•⁠  ⁠Brighter, more energised skin

•⁠  ⁠Softer expression lines

•⁠  ⁠Better muscle symmetry

•⁠  ⁠Deep relaxation of jaw and neck tension

When combined with buccal massage, the effects become even more powerful - working on deeper facial layers that no external massage can reach.

A perfect choice if you want lasting, natural-looking results without invasive procedures.

Buccal massage is an advanced intra-oral technique designed to reach the deeper layers of the facial musculature. Working gently from inside the mouth, it releases tension that traditional external massage cannot access, helping to soften expression lines, restore muscle balance and refine the natural contours of the face.

This highly specialised method is especially beneficial for those experiencing jaw tightness, clenching or grinding offering profound relief while enhancing the overall sculpting and lifting effect of your treatment.

Yes — when performed by a trained professional. As an MSc physiotherapist, I use clinical hygiene, gloves and anatomical precision.

Does it hurt?

Most clients find it relieving. Some experience mild pressure in tight areas, particularly if they clench their jaw.

Lifting and de-puffing results are visible immediately and last several days.

With repeated sessions, the effects become longer-lasting as muscle tone improves.

For best results, a series of treatments is recommended:

•⁠  ⁠Weekly or fortnightly for 3–6 sessions

•⁠  ⁠Then monthly maintenance

Yes — a skin test is required before applying facial kinesiotaping. Some skin types can be sensitive or prone to allergies, so a small test patch is placed in a discreet area and worn for 24 hours.

This ensures your skin tolerates the tape comfortably and allows the treatment to be carried out safely and effectively.

Although both treatments are completely non-invasive, there are situations where it is best to postpone your session or seek prior advice. Most contraindications are temporary, meaning that once the area has healed, you can safely enjoy the treatment again.

General contraindications (for both Kobido and Buccal):

•⁠ ⁠active infections or acute inflammatory conditions (including skin conditions on the face, e.g., active cystic or pustular acne)

•⁠ ⁠fever

•⁠ ⁠fresh cuts, wounds or significant irritation

•⁠ ⁠cancer during active treatment (with medical consultation)

•⁠ ⁠uncontrolled hypertension

•⁠ ⁠recent aesthetic procedures requiring healing time (please see below for details)

•⁠ ⁠fragile or reactive blood vessels / advanced telangiectasia (assessed individually)

•⁠ ⁠recent injuries to the neck or cervical spine

Specific contraindications for Buccal Massage (intra-oral work):

•⁠ ⁠recent tooth extraction

•⁠ ⁠active inflammation or infection in the gums or oral cavity

•⁠ ⁠ulcers, cold sores or open sores inside the mouth

•⁠ ⁠irritation or wounds inside the mouth

•⁠ ⁠advanced periodontal disease

•⁠ ⁠difficulty opening the mouth comfortably

Contraindications related to aesthetic treatments:

•⁠ ⁠laser or mesotherapy – wait until the skin has fully healed

•⁠ ⁠dermal fillers – wait 4–6 weeks

•⁠ ⁠anti-wrinkle injections – wait 2–3 weeks

•⁠ ⁠PDO threads – minimum 6 months

•⁠ ⁠chemical peels – wait until irritation has resolved

Kobido Up®️ and external facial massage techniques are generally considered safe and deeply relaxing during pregnancy. Many expectant clients find the treatment soothing, especially for jaw, neck and shoulder tension.

However, buccal massage (intra-oral work) is not recommended during pregnancy.

This is because hormonal changes can increase gum sensitivity and the risk of inflammation, and the intra-oral environment requires higher caution.

For pregnant clients, I offer beautiful modified treatments that focus on:

•⁠  ⁠gentle sculpting techniques

•⁠  ⁠lymphatic drainage

•⁠  ⁠tension release in the jaw, neck and shoulders

•⁠  ⁠relaxation of facial muscles

These adaptations ensure a safe, restorative and comfortable experience throughout pregnancy.

For facial work, I use Elemis oils, known for high-quality, skin-nourishing ingriediens to ensure comfort, safety and exceptional results.

For some targeted areas I use Bio-Oil, a gentle, lightweight formula that supports smooth manual work while respecting sensitive skin. 

For the intra-oral portion, no lubricant is applied inside the mouth. Instead, I use medical-grade gloves and specialised techniques that allow effective work without introducing any products internally.

If you have any allergies or product preferences, please let me know before your treatment - I am always happy to adapt.

For the best experience, please ensure your skin is clean and free from makeup or heavy skincare products. Avoid active exfoliants, retinol and strong acids for 24 hours beforehand to keep the skin calm and receptive.

As I will be working across the head, neck, shoulders and décolleté, choose comfortable clothing with easy access to these areas and remove any necklaces and earrings before we begin.

Above all, make yourself comfortable - this is your time to unwind and fully relax.

Most clients leave feeling deeply relaxed, de-stressed and noticeably lifted. You may see an immediate improvement in facial contour, brightness and reduced puffiness.

After buccal massage, it’s normal to experience a slight feeling of openness or lightness around the jaw. In some cases, mild temporary tenderness can appear in areas that were particularly tight — this typically settles within a few hours.

Your skin will look refreshed and energised, with results continuing to develop over the next day as circulation and lymphatic flow increase.

After your treatment, drink plenty of water to support lymphatic drainage and help your body eliminate toxins released during the massage.

Avoid heavy makeup, intense exercise, saunas and hot showers for at least 4–6 hours, especially after buccal massage.

If you’ve had any recent aesthetic procedures, follow the specific aftercare advised by your practitioner.

Your face may be more receptive to skincare immediately after the treatment — gentle hydration and minimal products work best.

Allow yourself time to enjoy the feeling of relaxation and openness in the face and neck.

Kobido Up®️ and buccal massage significantly increase circulation, lymphatic flow and the activity of the deeper facial tissues. Because your skin and muscles are in a heightened, responsive state immediately after the session, heat and intense activity can interfere with the benefits of the treatment.

Here’s why:

•⁠  ⁠Increased heat (sauna, hot shower, steam) can cause excess redness, overstimulate the skin and counteract the calming, balancing effects of the massage.

•⁠  ⁠Intensive exercise raises blood pressure and muscle tension, which may reduce the lifting and relaxing results you’ve just achieved.

•⁠  ⁠Heat and sweating can irritate freshly stimulated tissues and make the skin more reactive.

•⁠  ⁠The face continues to drain and de-puff for several hours after treatment; heat or high activity may interrupt this process.

Avoiding heat and strenuous activity for a few hours allows your muscles, fascia and nervous system to fully settle — giving you longer-lasting lifting, sculpting and relaxation results.

I offer mobile treatments across Surrey, covering: Leatherhead, Fetcham, Ashtead, Bookham, Oxshott, Cobham, Esher, Epsom and Dorking.

If you are located just outside these areas, feel free to get in touch — I will do my best to accommodate where possible.

All gift vouchers are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase, giving plenty of time to book and enjoy the treatment.