There’s no denying that a person’s smile is often the first thing we notice, and dimples can make it even more charming. From Shah Rukh Khan to Preity Zinta and Alia Bhatt, countless celebrities have mesmerized us time and again with their dimpled smiles.

Although dimples are a facial defect, many people crave for them. Suppose, you too have ever tried to make dimples by pricking a pencil on your cheek.

However, in today’s social media-driven world, there’s a quick solution to everything. One trend that’s quickly becoming popular among beauty influencers is the use of fake dimple makers.

Hitika Sachdev, a content creator with 230k followers on Instagram, says, “Faux dimples are popular among Gen Z right now because they add a cute and fun look to your face without any surgery. Also, faux dimples allow for creativity and self-expression, as you can experiment with different styles and placements to customize your look. It’s a fun and temporary way to enhance your features.”

But are these easy-to-use tools actually approved by dermatologists? Let’s find out.

What causes dimples?

“Dimples are caused due to genetic differences in the facial muscles and connective tissue structures. They usually run in families and are believed to be inherited,” explains Dr Neeti Gaur, dermatologist and founder of Gurugram-based Citrine Clinic. India Today.

Doctors further explain that dimples appear on cheeks due to irregular growth of a muscle called zygomaticus major during the development of the fetus. This muscle pulls the mouth up and down, which creates expressions of happiness or pain on the face.

When this muscle splits into two groups, one above the corner of the mouth and one below, dimples form.

Yes, it is possible to create dimples artificially

Dr Ruby Sachdev, Consultant Aesthetic Physician, Gleneagles Hospital, Bengaluru, explains that artificial dimples are created through a cosmetic procedure known as dimpleplasty.

Moreover, Dr Shilpi Bhadani, plastic and aesthetic surgeon and founder of Gurugram-based SB Aesthetics, says that natural dimples are actually a ‘variation’ of the muscle arrangement.

In the surgical procedure the internal parts of the muscles, mucosa and skin are reshaped in such a way that they appear like craters.

In this minor surgical procedure a small incision is made inside the cheek and a suture is created that connects the underlying skin to the deeper facial muscles.

When the suture heals, it creates a permanent depression that resembles a natural dimple. “The procedure is usually done very quickly and takes very little time,” says Dr. Sachdev.

Fake dimple appliance – attractive but not effective

Dr Gaur explains that there are several ways to create the illusion of dimples, such as:

• Makeup Technique: Create a slight shadow effect by applying a slightly darker shade of blush or contour powder to the area where you want to highlight the dimple and blending it in. This should be removed thoroughly at the end of the day to avoid clogging of pores.
• Dimple Piercing: A small, discreet hole in the cheek can mimic a dimple. However, piercings do carry some risks, including infection, scarring, and allergic reactions. Proper hygiene and care are important.
• cheek suction deviceThese are small devices that pull on the cheeks, making them look darker temporarily. The effect lasts only as long as you use the device. Excessive use of these devices can cause irritation and redness.

Meanwhile, talking about the dimple makers that are going viral on social media, Dr Bhadani says, “They are not effective, regardless of what is shown in the video. Anything more permanent than that requires a surgical procedure. These devices only move the tissue temporarily, causing a dimple for a few minutes.”

Dr Sachdev shares a similar opinion, “While online tools and hacks to create temporary dimples may look appealing, they are often cosmetic and lack scientific backing. These methods usually involve applying pressure to the skin, which may cause temporary scarring but is unlikely to create permanent dimples. Also, the effectiveness of these methods is highly variable and depends on individual skin and muscle structure.”

Temporary methods of creating dimples are generally not effective or long-lasting. While some people may notice a slight scar for a short time, these methods do not provide a permanent solution. For someone who does not have dimples naturally, it is nearly impossible to achieve permanent results without surgical intervention. Temporary effects often disappear quickly as the skin returns to its original state.

Let us consider its pros and cons

Devices that create false dimples are less risky, as makeup and suction devices are generally safe when used correctly.

The biggest advantage is that it does not require any surgical intervention. Unlike dimpleplasty, it does not involve surgery.

However, the pressure exerted on the skin by these so-called dimple makers can cause the skin to darken and hyperpigment. In addition, the internal mucosa can become inflamed, cysts can form and external scars can also occur.

The effect of such devices is short-lived; excessive use can cause irritation and also poses a risk of infection.

final call

Dr. Bhadani believes that such devices are mere gimmicks, designed to make quick profits by attracting people’s attention.

Meanwhile, Dr Sachdev says, “As a medical professional, I do not support the use of fake dimple makers or other unverified methods to alter one’s appearance. If someone is genuinely interested in getting dimples, it is best to consult a qualified aesthetic surgeon who can recommend safe and effective options. It is important to prioritise safety and the long-term health of your skin over quick fixes.”