Having extra fat under the chin, often called a double chin, is a common concern for many people. A double chin can make you feel self-conscious and detract from an otherwise slim appearance. While genetics plays a role, there are also lifestyle habits and remedies that can effectively tackle fat under the chin.
What Causes Fat Under the Chin?
There are a few key reasons why double chins develop:
- Weight Gain - Gaining weight, especially in the face and neck area, is one of the most common culprits of a double chin. As the body stores excess fat, this can accumulate under the chin. Losing weight addresses fat overall.
- Genetics - Some people inherit a genetic predisposition to store fat in the chin and neck region. This gives the appearance of a double chin despite an otherwise healthy weight.
- Aging - As we get older, skin loses elasticity and the facial tissues weaken, causing them to sag. This creates excess skin under the chin that appears as a double chin.
- Posture - Spending long periods looking down at phones, computers, books, etc. can shorten the neck muscles. This pulls skin forward and creates a double chin look.
Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Double Chin
Making certain lifestyle adjustments can have a big impact on improving a double chin over time:
- Lose Weight - Carrying excess weight, especially in the neck and face region, directly contributes to a double chin for most people. Losing even 5-10 lbs through diet and exercise can slim fat under the chin.
- Improve Posture - Spending less time looking down at phones and electronic devices helps prevent shortened neck muscles that drag skin forward.
- Stay Hydrated - Staying hydrated keeps skin plump and supple, reducing the sagging under the chin. Drink at least 64 ounces of water daily.
- Moisturize Skin - Using moisturizers formulated for the neck keeps the skin hydrated and elastic to minimize sagging.
- Manage Stress - Stress impacts cortisol levels and causes water retention and weight gain, worsening double chins. Try relaxing activities like yoga, meditation, or massage.
Double Chin Exercises
Performing facial exercises that target the muscles under the chin and neck are effective for tackling a double chin. Here are some of the best to try:
Head Rolls
- Tilt your head back to look at the ceiling
- Slowly roll your head in a circle going clockwise 5 times, then counter-clockwise 5 times
- Repeat 2-3 times daily
Chin Tilts
- Tilt your head back and look at the ceiling
- Open your mouth slightly
- Using only your neck muscles, face forward bringing your chin to your chest
- Hold for 5 seconds, then tilt head back
- Repeat 10-15 times
Pucker Lips
- Purse lips together like you are going to kiss
- Hold contracted position for 20 seconds
- Relax lips and repeat 10 times
Chew Sugar-Free Gum
- Chewing gum works out the chin muscles
- Aim for at least 30 minutes daily
- Choose sugar-free gum
Say Vowel Sounds
- Say vowel sounds out loud in exaggerated motions
- Open mouth wide saying “O” and stretch chin down with “E”
- Do 5 repetitions of A-E-I-O-U
Additional Remedies for Double Chins
Using specialized tools and treatments can also tackle fat under the chin:
- Gua Sha Massage - This massage technique uses a gua sha tool to improve blood flow and drain fluids. Performed daily, it helps sculpt and tone facial muscles.
- CoolSculpting - This non-surgical fat reduction treatment freezes and kills fat cells under the skin via controlled cooling. Several treatments reduces a double chin.
- Kybella - These FDA approved deoxycholic acid injections permanently destroy fat cells. A series of treatments is needed but results are long-lasting.
- See a Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon - Medical aesthetic specialists have access to the latest double chin treatments like laser liposuction, chin implants, or neck lifts. Schedule a consultation about options.
Makeup, Facial Hair, and Clothing Tips
In addition to medical and lifestyle measures, using makeup, growing facial hair, and wearing strategic clothing pieces can hide a double chin:
- Contour with Makeup - Blend bronzer below the chin and add highlighter above to "push" features up and create a slimming effect.
- Grow a Beard (Men) - Facial hair like a beard, goatee, or stubble camouflages double chins by covering skin.
- Wear Collared Shirts or Scarves - Collars and scarves provide structure underneath the chin area to hide loose skin. Turtlenecks also disguise double chins.
In Conclusion
Getting rid of a double chin takes consistency with lifestyle changes like losing weight, improving posture, staying hydrated, and doing targeted exercises. Medical treatments like CoolSculpting, Kybella, and surgical options also produce more defined facial contours. Using makeup tricks, growing facial hair, and wearing strategic garments can hide a double chin while you work on longer term solutions. Focus on sustainable habits rather than quick fixes for the best chance of success minimizing fat under the chin.
