Already tired of the traditional methods of sculpting your face, like using a gua sha or facial exercises? Struggling with baby fat on your face is quite common. But chubby little cheeks and baby fat on the face are
so last season. So, officially, the latest trend of using chin straps has arrived for the beauty experts.
The desire for a defined jawline is not new. But using a chin strap might be! This is one of the most appealing beauty techniques, requiring no needles or surgery. Still wondering what is a chin strap is?
A chin strap is a compression garment designed to support the jawline and neck. Generally used during the post-op recovery process for facial surgeries such as facelifts and neck lifts, they also help reduce swelling and promote healing. Some research also shows they can improve sleep quality by controlling snoring and teeth grinding. “The gentle compression helps keep the tissues in place, ensuring that the skin adheres to its new contours throughout the healing process,” said David Shafer, MD, FACS, a double-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue.
The chin straps sit comfortably around your chin and wrap around your head to provide support. But it shouldn’t be so tight that it causes discomfort or restricts blood flow. Meanwhile, beauty experts recommend wearing this overnight while sleeping or during the day while watching TV or working.
On the other hand, experts are claiming that these straps can’t sculpt the jawline. “Chin straps are not intended to sculpt the jawline long-term significantly,” stated Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. “They may reduce puffiness and swelling temporarily, but they don’t affect fat deposits or skin laxity in a lasting way.”
What is the solution? The chin strap’s primary role is in post-operative care following facial surgery. However, if worn for a longer period, it may help temporarily sculpt the jawline. But when these are treated aggressively for longer periods, they can lead to headaches, restricted blood flow, and more.
Dr Shireen Furtado, senior consultant, medical and cosmetic dermatology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, told India Today, “In the long run, there’s no strong evidence to suggest that these bands can permanently change face shape or tighten the skin,” adding, “I do not recommend compression bands as a reliable way to achieve a lifted look. They may give a temporary slimmer effect, but this is not the same as a true facelift or skin tightening. Compression bands may be used for recovery after surgery, but they are not a proven beauty tool for long-term lifting.”
While chin straps, due to their low cost, tend to make people believe that they are beneficial in sculpting the face, experts find no use in the overuse of the product in sculpting the face.
