Dimples are one of those charming facial features that many people find endearing. While some individuals are naturally born with dimples, others might wish to have them, hoping to enhance their facial aesthetics. Dimples are small, natural indentations in the skin, typically found on the cheeks when someone smiles. These indentations can vary in size, depth, and location, and they are often associated with beauty and youthfulness. In this article, we will explore different methods for obtaining dimples, whether through natural processes, surgical interventions, or makeup tricks. We will also discuss the factors that contribute to the formation of dimples and the myths surrounding their development.
Understanding Dimples: What Are They?
Dimples are genetic traits that result from a small indentation in the skin caused by a minor variation in the structure of the muscles in the cheek. These indentations usually appear when the person smiles, although in some cases, dimples may be visible even when the face is at rest. The most common form of dimple occurs on the cheeks, but some people also develop dimples on their chin or back.
Cheek dimples are typically caused by a congenital condition in which the zygomaticus major muscle, responsible for facial expressions such as smiling, is slightly shorter than normal. This shorter muscle causes a noticeable indentation in the skin when the muscle contracts, leading to the characteristic dimple. The exact mechanism of dimple formation is still not entirely understood, but the leading theory suggests that they are a result of this minor muscle malformation.
How to Get Dimples: Various Methods
If you are looking to achieve the look of dimples, there are several methods available, ranging from natural exercises to cosmetic surgeries. Below are some of the most popular approaches:
1. Dimple-Making Exercises
For those who are looking for a non-invasive, natural way to get dimples, there are certain facial exercises that some believe can help create or enhance dimples. These exercises typically focus on strengthening and toning the muscles around the cheeks, which, in turn, might lead to the formation of dimples over time. While there is no scientific evidence to guarantee that exercises can create permanent dimples, some individuals claim success.
The Cheek Push-Up Exercise:
One of the most popular exercises involves pushing the cheeks inward while smiling or making exaggerated facial expressions. Here’s how you can try it:
- Smile as widely as you can.
- Use your fingers to gently push the skin on your cheeks inward.
- Hold this position for a few seconds, then relax.
- Repeat the process multiple times a day.
The Dimple Pinching Exercise:
This exercise focuses on pinching the area where you want your dimples to appear.
- Place your index finger and thumb on the spot where you want the dimple.
- Gently pinch the skin while smiling.
- Hold for a few seconds, then release.
- Repeat the process several times throughout the day.
It is important to note that while these exercises may tone the muscles in your cheeks, they may not create permanent dimples, especially if there is no underlying muscle malformation.
2. Dimple Creation Surgery (Dimpleplasty)
For those who are looking for a more permanent solution, dimple creation surgery, known as “dimpleplasty,” is a popular cosmetic procedure. This surgery involves a simple procedure in which a surgeon creates dimples by making small incisions inside the cheek and removing a small amount of tissue. The surgeon then sutures the skin to create the indentation, and the result is permanent dimples that mimic the natural ones that occur in some individuals.
The Procedure:
- Dimpleplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia, meaning that the patient is awake but the area is numbed.
- The surgeon makes a small incision on the inside of the cheek, avoiding visible scarring.
- A small amount of tissue is removed, and the skin is sutured in place to create the dimple.
- The recovery time for this procedure is relatively short, with most patients able to return to normal activities within a week.
While dimpleplasty is a relatively safe and effective way to get permanent dimples, it is important to consult with a skilled and experienced cosmetic surgeon. As with any surgery, there are potential risks involved, such as infection or scarring, so it is crucial to ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified professional.
3. Non-Surgical Cosmetic Treatments
For individuals who want a non-invasive alternative to surgery but still desire permanent results, there are a few cosmetic treatments that may help create the appearance of dimples. These procedures typically involve the use of dermal fillers or Botox injections to create temporary indentations in the skin.
Dermal Fillers:
Dermal fillers, such as hyaluronic acid-based fillers, can be strategically injected into specific areas of the cheeks to create the appearance of dimples. This is a less invasive procedure compared to surgery and can be performed in a medical spa or clinic. However, the results are temporary, lasting anywhere from six months to a year, depending on the type of filler used.
Botox Injections:
Botox is typically used to treat wrinkles, but it can also be used to create the appearance of dimples. By injecting small amounts of Botox into the zygomaticus major muscle, the muscle can be temporarily relaxed, causing an indentation in the skin when the person smiles. This method is less permanent than dimpleplasty and requires maintenance treatments every few months.
4. Makeup and Cosmetic Techniques
If you’re not ready for surgery or injections but still want to create the illusion of dimples, makeup can be a simple and effective solution. By strategically applying makeup, you can highlight certain areas of the face, making it appear as though dimples are present.
How to Create Fake Dimples with Makeup:
- Highlight and Contour: Use a contour powder or cream to create shadows on the areas where you want your dimples. Typically, this is on the cheekbones. Apply a highlight to the high points of the cheeks to draw attention away from the center and enhance the illusion.
- Cheek Dimple Stickers: Some people use temporary dimple stickers or adhesive patches. These stickers mimic the appearance of dimples by adhering to the skin and creating an indentation when you smile. While this is a temporary solution, it can give you the look of dimples for special occasions.
This method requires no permanent changes and is a great way to experiment with the look of dimples without committing to any procedures.
Factors That Contribute to Dimple Formation
While some people may be able to get dimples through exercise, surgery, or makeup, the formation of natural dimples is largely dependent on genetics. The genetic factors that contribute to dimple formation are still not fully understood, but studies suggest that dimples are inherited in a dominant manner, meaning that if one parent has dimples, there is a high likelihood that their child will also have them.
Dimples can also be influenced by the structure and shape of an individual’s face. People with more pronounced cheekbones or a slightly rounder face may be more likely to develop visible dimples when they smile. Additionally, certain facial expressions or the amount of fat in the face may impact the visibility and appearance of dimples over time.
Myths and Misconceptions About Dimples
There are many myths surrounding dimples, some of which can lead to confusion about how to get them. Below are a few common misconceptions:
- Dimples are a sign of good health or luck: While dimples are a charming feature, they do not necessarily indicate good health or any sort of special luck. They are simply a natural genetic trait.
- Everyone can get dimples with exercise: While facial exercises may help tone the muscles in the face, they are unlikely to create permanent dimples if there is no underlying muscle variation. In other words, not everyone can develop dimples by simply doing exercises.
- Dimples are only found in women: Dimples are a gender-neutral trait and can be found in both men and women. There is no correlation between gender and the likelihood of having dimples.
Conclusion
Dimples are a beautiful feature that many people desire, either for aesthetic reasons or simply because they find them endearing. Whether you’re looking to create dimples through natural methods like facial exercises, opting for a more permanent solution like dimpleplasty, or experimenting with makeup, there are various ways to achieve this charming look. While genetics play a major role in the formation of dimples, advancements in cosmetic surgery and non-invasive treatments have made it possible for anyone to get the look they desire. Regardless of the method, it’s important to approach the process with careful consideration and consult with a professional if you choose a surgical or injectable option.