A double chin, also known as submental fat, is a condition where an extra layer of fat forms around the neck, causing the appearance of a "second chin."
Although it is not a sign of poor health, it can be aesthetically displeasing for some, and when it comes to our appearance, many of us are our worst critics. So, when we see something we don't like about ourselves, it can be really tough to deal with. In fact, many people feel self-conscious about their double chin, which can destroy their self-image and self-esteem. However, it is important to keep in mind that double chins are actually quite common, occurring in more than two-thirds of the population.
While they are often associated with weight gain, several other causes, such as genetics and aging, can also result in the double chin. That's why you can get a double chin even if you are physically fit. So what causes this pesky little pocket of fat, and is there anything that can be done about it?
The good news is that there are a number of ways to get rid of a double chin. But first, let's take a closer look at what causes them.
What are the Causes of Double Chin
There are a number of causes of a double chin. Some of the most common include:
Genetics
Genetics is the passing of traits from parent to offspring, and it is quite possible for a person to have a double chin due to genetics.
Some people are simply blessed with a good chin line no matter how much weight they gain, while others may develop a double chin even if they are relatively thin. This is often due to genetics – if your parents or grandparents had a double chin, you’re more likely to have one too.
Unfortunately, not much can be done to change your genetic makeup. However, some lifestyle choices and exercises can help minimize the appearance of a double chin, e.g., mewing.
Weight Gain
The dreaded double chin. It's often one of the first places we notice weight gain and one of the hardest to get rid of. But why does weight gain cause a double chin?
When you gain weight, your body stores excess fat cells in areas like the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs. But for some people, these fat cells also accumulate around the neck and chin, which can cause a double chin. Although anyone can develop a double chin, it is most often seen in people who are overweight or obese.
Age-Related Changes
According to dermatologists, one of the most common age-related changes that can cause a double chin is the loss of skin elasticity. As we age, our skin produces less collagen and elastin, which are proteins that give our skin its firmness and elasticity. The loss of these proteins causes the skin to become loose and saggy, often forming a double chin.
In addition, the fatty tissue under the skin begins to break down, which can also contribute to the formation of saggy skin. Age-related changes in the structure of the jawbone can also play a role in the development of a double chin. As we get older, the jawbone often recedes, causing the skin overlying it to droop and form a fold.
In such age-related cases, cosmetic surgery and jawline exercises may be the best solution for addressing this problem.
Poor Posture
When we constantly crane our necks over phones or computers or hunch our shoulders forward, it can cause the platysma muscle to weaken. The platysma muscle is the large muscle that connects the neck to the chin.
This weakening puts additional strain on the muscles and connective tissue in your neck, leading to a condition called "turkey neck." Turkey neck is characterized by sagging skin and wrinkles around the jawline, and it can be very difficult to get rid of once it develops.
In addition to causing a double chin, poor posture can also lead to headaches, neck pain, and fatigue.
Poor Diet and Lack of Exercise
When you consume foods high in fat and calories, your body stores this excess energy as fat. If you don't burn off this extra fat through exercise, it can begin to accumulate in your chin area, leading to a double chin. Additionally, if you lead a sedentary lifestyle, your muscles will gradually weaken and start to atrophy leading to poor muscle tone. This can cause the skin around your chin to sag, making a double chin more noticeable.
You need to create a calorie deficit by eating fewer calories and exercising more to eliminate a double chin formed due to weight gain.
How to Get Rid of Double Chins
Anybody can develop a double chin, regardless of weight. Luckily, there are several ways to get rid of this stubborn fat area. For many people, simply making some lifestyle changes such as eating a healthier diet and getting more exercise can help to reduce the appearance of a double chin. There are also specific exercises that target the muscles in the neck and jawline, helping to define the contours of the face. You can also add in a chewing exercise device like the 3.0 CHISELL Regular Bite to increase the intensity of your jawline exercise.
Another way to reduce a double chin is to make changes to your diet. Remember, a double chin is just extra fat around your face, so if you can reduce the overall fat in your body, you’ll see a reduction in your double chin. Eating a healthy diet low in calories and fat will help you lose weight and reduce the appearance of a double chin. In addition, eating foods high in protein and fiber and combining them with exercise will help tone the muscles in your face and jawline, making your double chin less noticeable. So, ensure you’re eating a healthy diet and getting plenty of exercises. Even something as simple as walking 30 minutes a day can help.
However, if lifestyle changes and exercise don't provide enough results, many cosmetic treatments can be used to minimize the appearance of a double chin. These include injectables, as well as surgical options like liposuction.
Finally, always remember to take good care of your skin. This includes using sunscreen, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking. By taking these steps, you can help keep your skin and jawline looking young and healthy for years to come.
