AMM 129: Jawline Trends: Mewing and Jawliner Myths Uncovered
July 05, 2024
This episode explores the recent surge in jawline enhancement techniques among teenage boys. From silicone jaw trainers to facial fitness gum and the popular practice of “mewing,” these trends have captivated millions online. Through expert interviews, listeners will learn about the doubtful scientific backing and potential risks of these methods. Dental professionals and dermatologists weigh in, offering cautionary advice and emphasizing the importance of focusing on healthy habits over quick fixes.
Quick Takes
- Silicone jaw trainers and facial fitness gum are popular among teenage boys with millions of views on videos, but lack scientific evidence of efficacy.
- “Mewing,” a trend on TikTok and Reddit, involves pressing the tongue against the roof of the mouth to reshape the jawline without scientific validation.
- Experts caution against jawline enhancement gimmicks, emphasizing that stronger jaw muscles won’t reshape the jawline and may even pose risks to teeth and jaw joints.
Episode Transcript
It’s Friday, July 5, 2024. Today, we’re diving into the online trend storming the beauty world: jawline enhancement techniques among teenage boys.
Silicone jaw trainers and facial fitness gum have exploded in popularity. Videos of teens using these products have garnered millions of views. But let’s be clear: there’s minimal scientific evidence backing their efficacy. Dental professionals are skeptical about promised jaw shape changes, with no comprehensive studies affirming these claims.
Not to be overlooked is “mewing,” which involves pressing the tongue against the roof of the mouth to reshape the jawline. Despite its lack of robust scientific validation, mewing has amassed hundreds of thousands of followers on TikTok and Reddit.
Anton Perl, CEO of Jawliner, mentions the inspiration from their silicone jaw trainer’s success in developing facial fitness gum. But be warned, it’s not cheap—$41.99 for a two-month supply. Perl advises against its use for those with pre-existing jaw issues, noting its high mass compared to regular gum.
Sachin Patel, founder of Rockjaw, notes growing demand for their facial gum, not just from teen boys, but from a wide range of men, including corporate professionals and athletes. This demand has been organic since they launched in 2020, predating the TikTok trend.
However, experts warn against these gimmicks. Dentist Mark Burhenne, co-founder of the “Ask the Dentist” podcast, emphasizes that stronger jaw muscles won’t reshape the jawline. Weight loss might naturally showcase jaw definition, but chewing hard gum can potentially damage teeth and stress jaw joints.
Dermatologist Dr. Kavita Mariwalla shares a personal story: her 12-year-old son asked for jawline-enhancing gum, revealing just how pervasive these trends have become. She advises against such products, reminding her son that genetics play a significant role in physical appearance.
The bottom line? These jawline-fixation trends lack credible scientific validation and may pose risks. Focus on healthy habits and let nature take its course.