TikTok is a hub for all things beauty. Over the last few years, the platform has delivered many hacks, routines and styling tips. Some have become long-standing staples in our regimens, and others have come and gone like the wind. Regardless of staying power, most have generated buzzy side conversations that have become trends all their own. That’s exactly the case with chin straps—the strange-looking face bands seen in almost every morning shed video on TikTok.
If you follow any skin-care influencers or dermatologists on the app, chances are you’ve seen at least one morning shed video by now. The trend—which involves individuals piling on beauty products, masks and other apparatuses at night and then shedding them in a morning video—has completely taken over the internet. While there are many concepts to break down from the videos, the chin straps have generated a lot of interest. Sure, they look weird and add to the shock value of the reveal, but are they really helpful, and should we all be running to add them to our nighttime routines? Ahead, we tapped three experts to find out.
Featured experts
- Nichelle Temple is an aesthetician and the founder of Inderma Studio
- Ian Michael Crumm is a celebrity aesthetician and co-host of Educational Beauty Podcast
- Rachel Lozina is a master aesthetician, laser technician, oncology aesthetician and the founder of Blue Water Spa
What are chin straps?
According to Nichelle Temple, aesthetician and founder of Inderma Studio, chin straps are a form of face band that are usually made of neoprene, elastic and velcro. “The straps are secured behind the head and used to keep the jaw closed,” she says. Though they are a staple in the morning shed videos, celebrity aesthetician Ian Michael Crumm adds that they are typically used to support the lower jaw and chin and are often used post-surgery under the guidance of a medical professional.
What are the benefits of using a chin strap at home?
“In the context of skin care and beauty, chin straps are marketed to help firm and lift the skin around the jawline,” says Crumm. That said, they have the potential to reduce the appearance of sagging or a double chin (the latter is also currently trending on TikTok). “The straps apply a gentle pressure that can allegedly help to correct drooping and slim the neck,” says Temple. Aside from their beauty benefits, chin straps can be helpful for those suffering from snoring, as they are designed to keep the mouth closed.
In the videos, creators can be seen unlatching the straps to reveal a smoother and tighter jawline, but do those results last? According to Temple, it’s unlikely that they do. “Some users report temporary improvement and subtle reshaping, but commonly people aren’t seeing long-term results,” she says.
Are there any disadvantages?
According to all three experts, the main issue with chin straps is discomfort. “Some may find them uncomfortable or restrictive, especially when worn for extended periods,” says Crumm. The material can also be an issue if you have sensitive skin. “It’s important to check to see what fabric is used beforehand, as some people can be allergic to certain materials,” says Rachel Lozina, aesthetician and founder of Blue Water Spa. In that vein, Crumm notes that they can be worn to bed, however, you need to ensure the strap is comfortable and does not cause any breathing issues or discomfort.
