Softening a square jawline can be achieved through various methods, ranging from simple exercises and makeup techniques to medical treatments and surgical procedures. The approach depends on the underlying cause of the squareness, whether it's bone structure, muscle size, or fat distribution.
Understanding the options allows individuals to explore the most suitable methods for their aesthetic goals.
Methods to Soften a Square Jawline
Based on common approaches, several techniques can help create a softer jawline appearance. These methods target different aspects, from muscle relaxation to visual contouring.
Mewing
Mewing is an oral exercise focused on improving tongue posture. While its effectiveness is debated and results can be subtle and gradual, it involves placing the tongue correctly against the roof of the mouth, which proponents believe can influence facial structure over time by promoting proper oral posture.
Square Jaw Contour Makeup
Using square jaw contour makeup is a non-invasive way to visually soften the appearance of a prominent jawline. Strategic application of darker shades along the jawline edges and lighter shades on areas like the chin and cheekbones can create shadows and highlights that give the illusion of a softer, more oval shape. This is a temporary solution offering immediate results.
Night Guard to Reduce Squared Jaw Muscles
Wearing a night guard to reduce squared jaw muscles is a technique often related to conditions like bruxism (teeth grinding), which can enlarge the masseter muscles (jaw muscles). A night guard can help relax these muscles, and in some cases where the squareness is due to muscle hypertrophy (enlargement), reducing muscle activity can potentially lead to a slight softening over time.
Avoid Chewing Gum
Habitual avoiding chewing gum can also help prevent the masseter muscles from becoming overly developed and prominent. Chewing gum exercises these muscles, potentially contributing to a more squared appearance if done frequently and vigorously.
Treatments With Injecting Botox
One of the most popular medical treatments is treatments with injecting Botox. Botox (botulinum toxin) can be injected directly into the masseter muscles. This temporarily paralyzes or weakens the muscles, causing them to atrophy (shrink) over several weeks. This reduction in muscle size effectively softens the angle of the jawline, creating a smoother line. Results typically last for several months.
Plastic Surgery
For a permanent and significant change, plastic surgery is an option. Surgical procedures can involve reducing the jawbone itself (mandibular reduction surgery) or removing excess fat deposits in the jowl area. These are more invasive procedures requiring significant recovery time but offer lasting results in reshaping the jawline.
Summary of Softening Methods
Here is a quick overview of the techniques discussed:
| Method | Type | Description | Permanence | Primary Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mewing | Exercise | Improving tongue posture | Variable | Oral Posture |
| Contour Makeup | Cosmetic | Using makeup to create shadows and highlights | Temporary | Visual Illusion |
| Night Guard | Appliance/Therapy | Reduces jaw muscle activity (often for bruxism) | Variable | Masseter Muscles |
| Avoid Chewing Gum | Lifestyle | Prevents overdevelopment of jaw muscles | Dependent | Masseter Muscles |
| Botox Injections | Medical Injectable | Weakens and shrinks masseter muscles | Temporary | Masseter Muscles |
| Plastic Surgery | Surgical | Reshapes jawbone or removes tissue | Permanent | Bone Structure/Fat |
Choosing the right method depends on individual factors such as desired results, budget, tolerance for risk, and the specific reason for the squared jawline. Consulting with a medical professional or cosmetic specialist is recommended to understand the best options for your situation.
