Chewing gum for a sharp, chiselled jawline? Experts reveal if the viral trend really works

A stick of gum has long been a go-to for fresher breath, easing nerves, or staying alert in class or at work. But on TikTok and Instagram, gum is making waves for a new reason: the claim that it can sculpt the perfect jawline. From beauty influencers to fitness coaches, the advice is spreading fast. But how much of it is fact, and how much is just hype?

This conversation, first reported by USA Today, reveals what experts really say about the chewing-gum-jawline trend and why the fascination with defined facial contours is stronger than ever.

Why the Jawline Obsession Is Everywhere
The jawline has become one of the most photographed angles of modern life. From Zoom calls to social media selfies, faces are constantly on display. “A strong jawline has always been an important factor in facial beauty, but I can’t think of a time when it’s been more relevant,” Dr. Andrew Jacono, a New York-based facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, told USA Today.

Surgeons say the cultural fixation is reflected in cosmetic choices too. Chin augmentations, for example, have risen more than 60 percent in the past decade. Dr. Samuel Lin of Harvard Medical School explains why: “A well-defined jaw has long been thought to be a sign of health, youthfulness and even evolutionary fitness.”

Does Gum Chewing Actually Work?
Social media may celebrate gum as a shortcut to a sculpted jaw, but research tells a different story. Chewing gum does strengthen certain muscles, such as the masseter and cheek muscles, and can improve bite strength. However, studies show no evidence of changes to jaw shape, bone structure, or muscle thickness.

“Chewing gum hasn’t been shown to make any difference in improving your jawline,” dermatologist Dr. Debra Jaliman told USA Today. Instead, jaw shape is mostly influenced by genetics, fat distribution and skin elasticity.

In fact, overdoing it could even backfire. “Long-term exaggerated chewing can cause masseter hypertrophy, which may actually widen the jaw rather than make it appear sculpted,” Lin cautioned.

What Really Sharpens the Jawline?
Experts suggest that the most effective way to define the jawline begins with overall health. Weight management, hydration, and consistent skincare can naturally enhance facial contours. “Weight loss is the most common practical thing people can do to improve their jawline, as it reduces fat around the face and neck,” Jacono said.

Lifestyle tweaks like better posture, facial exercises, grooming choices such as beards, and makeup contouring can also create the illusion of sharper definition. For those seeking faster results, non-invasive options like Botox, fat-dissolving injections, or skin-tightening treatments are available. Surgical options, including neck lifts or chin implants, remain the most dramatic path, but doctors advise consulting specialists before taking that step.

While gum will always have its place as a quick fix for nerves and stale breath, it is unlikely to carve the kind of jawline that dominates social feeds. As Lin summed up, “A holistic approach that includes fitness, posture, self-care and, if desired, cosmetic procedures, can help anyone put their best face forward.”