A double chin can occur when the musculus mylohyoideus--the muscle directly underneath the chin, slackens with age. The result is the impression of a second chin, which many people find unattractive and seek to eliminate. Other causes of a double chin are obesity, bad posture or simply genetics. Facial exercises can be effective in tightening the chin muscle and diminishing the appearance of a double chin.
Step 1
Drink a large glass of water, and splash your face with warm water. If your skin is well hydrated and warm, it will enable you to perform facial exercise more proficiently; when skin is dry and cold, it is less pliable.
Step 2
Tilt your head upward so you are looking at the ceiling. Press your tongue firmly against your upper mouth and swallow. Lean your head to the right while still looking up and swallow again. Repeat the action tilting your head to the left. Make sure your tongue is pressed against your mouth during the exercise. Repeat the swallowing action a total of three times in all three directions.
Step 3
Lie on your back on the floor or another hard flat surface with your knees pulled up and your arms relaxed at your sides. Lift your head as far as you can toward your chest, keeping your shoulders against the floor. Hold the pose for five seconds, then lower your head slowly. Repeat five times.
Step 4
Place both thumbs directly under the tip of your chin. Grip your chin using the sides of your index fingers. Push the end of your tongue against the roof of your mouth. You will feel the flabby skin beneath your thumbs become tense. Hold for five seconds and relax. Repeat 10 times.
Step 5
Tilt your head back. Using the backs of your fingers, gently slap the area under your chin for approximately two minutes. Start softly, gradually increasing the pressure and speed. This will improve circulation and help to firm the skin.
Step 6
Apply a light natural moisturizer to the entire face and neck, and perform a facial massage for several minutes. Start at the base of the neck and, using light upward strokes, proceed to the brow.
Tips and Warnings
- Execute facial exercises at least five times per week for maximum benefits. Drink plenty of water before and after performing the exercises to hydrate the skin, and help flush fat cells. Losing excess weight will also improve the appearance of a double chin. Disguise with makeup. Well applied makeup can lessen the visual aspect of a double chin. After applying foundation, concealer and powder choose a contouring powder one shade darker than your skin tone. Blend it in well along the jawline and under the chin, using a wide blusher brush.
References
- Drugs: Description of Mylohyoid Muscle
- All Bells Palsy: Facial Exercise
- "Facial Resistance Training"; Deborah Crowley; 2001
- "Five Minute Face Lift"; Reinhold Benz; 1991
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