The internet buzzes with beauty trends, and ‘mewing‘ is currently dominating the conversation.
We’ll examine this technique to see if it delivers on its promise of a sculpted jawline.
What is Mewing?
Mewing is a facial posture exercise where the tongue is held against the roof of the mouth in a particular way. Proponents suggest this tongue positioning, reminiscent of a cat’s meow, can lead to a more defined jawline, better facial structure, and improved breathing.
The Origins of Mewing
Mewing stems from orthotropics, a theory created by British orthodontists John and Mike Mew, focusing on the impact of tongue posture and breathing on facial development.
However, John Mew’s dental license was revoked in the UK for overstepping his professional scope.
Does Mewing Work?
The mewing concept remains theoretical, as there is currently no definitive scientific evidence to validate its claims of jawline sculpting or facial reshaping. Facial development is primarily influenced by genetics and environmental factors, notably diet and chewing patterns.
Nevertheless, some experts propose that proper tongue posture, like resting it on the palate, might play a role in healthy oral development and potentially influence facial structure during childhood growth, requiring further research.
Potential Benefits and Risks
The effectiveness of mewing for facial sculpting is not definitively proven, but it is suggested that it might encourage better nasal breathing, which could lead to benefits like improved sleep and oxygen intake.
However, these benefits can be achieved through other methods. While mewing is generally considered safe, incorrect tongue posture could result in teeth misalignment or TMJ problems in some cases. Consulting a dental professional is recommended before starting any facial posture exercises.
Alternatives for Jawline Definition
If you’re looking for ways to define your jawline, there are safer and more established options:
Facial exercises: While facial exercises can enhance jaw muscle tone and potentially refine your appearance, they are not a rapid solution. Changes will be gradual and require sustained effort.
Maintaining a healthy weight: Losing weight can sometimes lead to a more defined jawline as facial fat decreases.
Consulting a cosmetic professional: For a more defined jawline, cosmetic options like fillers or surgery exist, but professional consultation and risk assessment are essential.
The Takeaway
Despite its popularity, mewing’s claims about jawline sculpting lack scientific backing. More research is necessary to understand the connection between tongue posture and facial development.
Prior to trying mewing, consult with a dental professional. Remember, proven methods for jawline definition exist, and professional guidance is always recommended.