Introduction

The question “do face exercises work reddit” appears in dozens of Reddit threads, often with passionate before-and-after photos and conflicting advice. Reddit is useful for anecdotes, but sifting signal from noise matters if you want real, measurable change. This article cuts through the hype and gives a practical, evidence-aware plan for mewing, jawline exercises, and facial structure improvement.

What this covers and

why it matters:

you will learn the anatomy behind facial changes, which exercises produce muscle tone versus structural change, realistic timelines, cost comparisons for devices and clinical options, and step-by-step routines you can follow daily. If your goal is a stronger jawline, better facial posture, or long-term changes, this guide shows what can be achieved by exercise alone, when to add devices, and when to consult a dentist or surgeon.

Do Face Exercises Work Reddit

Reddit threads often report personal wins from “face exercises” and mewing, but distinguishing temporary muscle tone and fat reduction from true bone remodeling is essential. On Reddit, expect three kinds of reports: quick tone from muscle work and weight loss, dramatic claims backed by photos with inconsistent controls, and long-term stories from people who combined orthodontics or surgery with exercises.

What Reddit gets right: consistency matters. Users who report changes usually did daily routines for 8-12 weeks plus dietary changes and photos taken under similar lighting. What Reddit gets wrong: attributing all change to exercises alone.

For adults, significant bone repositioning is unlikely without orthodontic or surgical intervention. Use Reddit as a source of tips, but base decisions on principles of anatomy and professional guidance.

Practical takeaway: face exercises can improve muscle tone and posture in 8-12 weeks and may slightly alter soft-tissue appearance. For jawbone repositioning or major facial structural shifts, expect to consult orthodontics or oral surgery - exercises alone are unlikely to produce those results in fully matured adults.

Principles of Facial Change:

anatomy and limits

Understanding what exercises can and cannot do starts with basic anatomy. The facial mask is made of bone, cartilage, muscle, fat, skin, and connective tissue. Only young people whose facial bones are still growing (typically adolescents) can expect true bone remodeling from prolonged orthopedic forces.

In adults, bone remodeling is possible but slow and minimal without medical intervention.

Muscle hypertrophy and tone are achievable. Muscles like the masseter, digastric, platysma, and suprahyoid group can gain tone with resistance work. Increased muscle tone can create sharper definition at the jawline and neck, especially when combined with lower body fat.

Expect typical hypertrophy timelines similar to other small muscles: visible changes in 6-12 weeks with consistent loading, and more solid results at 3-6 months.

Fat reduction is not localizable by exercise alone. Spot reduction is a myth; to reduce submental fat (double chin) you need a caloric deficit, targeted treatments like Kybella (deoxycholic acid), CoolSculpting, or surgery. On Reddit, many attribute fat loss around the face to facial exercises, but most of that is due to general weight loss.

Mewing (tongue posture) targets posture and airway. Correct tongue posture - full-palate contact with the posterior third elevated - improves oral posture and can subtly lift soft tissues of the midface over time. In adolescents, orthotropic approaches attempt to guide growth; in adults, mewing improves posture and may reduce forward head posture, but measurable skeletal changes are unlikely.

Key numbers and timelines:

Muscle tone: visible change in 6-12 weeks with daily practice.
Noticeable soft-tissue change: 3-6 months combined with diet and exercise.
Orthodontic/surgical change: months to years and requires professional care.
Immediate cosmetic fixes: fillers or Botox give instant change; cost and maintenance apply.

Practical insight: if you are 18 or younger and persistent about mewing plus dental guidance, there is a better chance for skeletal impact. If you are 25 or older, treat exercises as muscle and posture training and plan clinical options for structural changes.

How to Do Mewing and Jaw Exercises:

routines with sets, reps, and progressions

This section gives step-by-step routines that combine mewing, targeted jaw resistance work, and neck/platysma conditioning. Aim for 10-20 minutes daily split into short sessions you can do at home.

Mewing fundamentals (daily, multiple short sessions)

How: Rest the whole tongue flat against the palate, tip of tongue behind front teeth but not pressing, posterior third elevated, lips sealed, teeth lightly together, breathe through the nose.
Start: 5 minutes, 4 times per day. Progress to holding ideal posture for 20-30 minutes cumulatively through the day.
Check: use a selfie each week with relaxed face, neutral lighting to track posture improvements.

Jawline resistance routine (10 minutes, daily)

Chin tucks (cervical retraction): 3 sets of 12. Hold each rep for 2 seconds. Builds deep neck flexors and reduces forward head posture.
Jaw jut: push lower jaw forward against light resistance (hand under chin) 3 sets of 10, 3-second hold each.
Resisted mouth opening: place one or two fingers under chin, open slowly against resistance for 3 sets of 8-10.
Smile holds: maximal smile without showing teeth, hold 10 seconds, 3 sets of 10. Targets zygomaticus and buccinator muscles aiding midface lift.

Chewing and mastication training

Chew gum (sugar-free) or use a masticatory trainer like Jawzrsize for progressive resistance.
Dosage: 10-20 minutes per day for gum, or 3-5 minute rounds with Jawzrsize starting at low resistance.
Risks: excessive chewing can hypertrophy masseter and change facial width - use balanced approach if you want a slimmer face.

Platysma and neck toning (5 minutes, daily)

Platysma pulls: tilt head back slightly, press tongue to palate, slowly glide lower lip down and out as if grimacing, hold 5 seconds, 3 sets of 12.
Neck isometrics: press forehead into palms, hold 5 seconds, repeat for sides and back for 3 sets each.

Progression and intensity

Weeks 1-4: learn form, low resistance, daily short sessions totaling 10 minutes.
Weeks 5-12: increase reps/holds, add resistance 2-3 times per week.
Months 3-6: evaluate photos and neck fat; if no progress and structural change desired, consult a professional.

Measuring progress

Use consistent selfies weekly, measure jawline angle visually, consider using the free app “YouCam Makeup” or BodyFat apps for consistent crop and lighting.
For clinical tracking, a dentist or orthodontist can use cephalometric x-rays and 3D scans.

Safety notes

Avoid pain. If you get jaw pain (TMJ discomfort), stop resisted jaw exercises and consult a dentist.
Do not overtrain masseters if your goal is a narrower face; prioritize neck and midface muscles.

When to Use Exercises vs Devices vs Professional Treatment Plus Pricing And

timelines

Deciding the right path depends on age, goals, budget, and tolerance for invasive procedures. Below is a practical comparison with timelines and typical pricing.

Low-cost, noninvasive: exercises + posture + diet

What: mewing, jaw resistance, neck toning, chewing gum.
Cost: $0-60 for initial gear (gum, resistance bands, or small jaw trainers).
Timeline: 6-12 weeks for tone, 3-6 months for soft-tissue improvement.
Best for: improving posture, small jawline definition, reducing double chin via weight loss.
Limitations: cannot move bone significantly in adults.

Over-the-counter devices and apps

Examples: Jawzrsize ($20-60 on Amazon), Mastic gum brands $5-20, FaceApp for tracking (free with paid versions).
Cost: $10-100.
Timeline: similar to exercises; can accelerate muscle hypertrophy if used properly.
Risks: overuse can cause TMJ issues or masseter hypertrophy.

Aesthetic non-surgical treatments

Botox for masseter reduction: $300-1,000 per session; visible slimming in 4-6 weeks; lasts 4-6 months.
Dermal fillers for jawline and chin (Juvederm, Restylane): $600-1,500 per syringe; often 1-4 syringes; immediate effect; lasts 9-24 months.
Kybella (deoxycholic acid) for submental fat: $1,200-1,800 per session; 2-4 sessions typical.
CoolSculpting for under-chin: $500-1,500 per session; 1-3 sessions.

Orthodontics and orthotropics

Invisalign or clear aligners: $3,000-8,000 depending on complexity.
Traditional braces: $2,500-7,000.
Orthotropics (growth guidance in children): price varies; consult specialist.
Timeline: 12-24 months for tooth and minor jaw position adjustments.

Surgery (orthognathic surgery, chin augmentation)

Orthognathic surgery: $20,000-60,000 including surgeon, hospital, anesthesia.
Chin implants: $3,000-8,000.
Recovery: 6-12 weeks for most activities; full facial settling 6-12 months.
Best for: major structural changes and permanent results.

Choosing based on scenario

If you are 16-20 and concerned about facial development, prioritize evaluation by an orthodontist and consistent mewing under guidance.
If you are 25+ and want subtle improvement, start with exercises, posture, and diet for 3-6 months, then consider non-surgical aesthetic options.
If you need permanent structural change, consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or orthodontist about braces plus orthognathic surgery.

Checklist to decide next step

Goal: soft-tissue lift or bone reposition?
Age: under 18 favors growth guidance.
Budget: non-surgical < $200; aesthetic $600-5,000; surgical $20k+.
Timeline: quick cosmetic changes vs months/years for structural treatment.

Tools and Resources

Below are practical tools, clinics, and apps with price ranges and availability to support your plan.

Devices and trainers

Jawzrsize (Amazon): $20-60. Offers progressive resistance balls to chew on. Use in short intervals to avoid masseter overgrowth.
Mastic gum (Whisps or Aniseed brand alternatives): $5-20 per pack. Cheap way to increase chewing without devices.

Apps and tracking

YouCam Makeup (free with in-app purchases): good for consistent before/after selfies.
MyFitnessPal (free, premium $9.99/month): track weight changes affecting facial fat.
SmileMate or DentalMonitoring (orthodontic monitoring apps): price varies; used by clinics for remote tracking.

Clinics and professionals

Invisalign providers: consult local orthodontists; initial consult often $100-300; full treatment $3,000-8,000.
Dermatology clinics offering Botox/Juvederm/Kybella: Botox $300-1,000; Juvederm $600-1,500 per syringe; Kybella $1,200-1,800 per session.
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons: consult for orthognathic surgery; expect consultation fees $150-400.

Books and courses

“The Mewing Guide” (online free resources and Reddit megathreads): use as introduction but cross-check claims.
Facial exercise programs like FaceGym (in-person studios in London, New York; sessions $35-60): professional-led facial workouts.

How to pick a provider

Check real reviews and before/after galleries.
Verify credentials: MD for injectables, DDS/DMD for dental/orthodontic, MD or DMD for surgery.
Ask about complications, downtime, and maintenance schedules.

Common Mistakes

Expecting bone change from exercises alone
Reality: adults rarely get skeletal changes without braces or surgery.
How to avoid: frame exercises as posture and muscle work; consult an orthodontist for structural goals.
Overtraining the masseter with heavy chewing
Reality: excessive chewing or devices can widen the lower face.
How to avoid: limit chewing device use to short sessions, focus more on neck and midface exercises.
Ignoring overall body fat and diet
Reality: jawline visibility is strongly influenced by subcutaneous fat.
How to avoid: pair a facial routine with a sustainable caloric deficit and overall fitness plan.
Poor form and inconsistent tracking
Reality: inconsistent posture and lighting ruin comparisons and slow progress.
How to avoid: take weekly selfies under consistent lighting and follow set reps/holds.
Skipping professional evaluation for TMJ or bite problems
Reality: jaw pain or malocclusion requires professional care; exercises can worsen issues.
How to avoid: stop if you feel pain and schedule a dental or TMJ specialist consult.

FAQ

Do Face Exercises Actually Change Bone Structure?

No. In adults, face exercises change muscle tone and posture but do not significantly remodel facial bones. Adolescents may see skeletal guidance under orthodontic care.

How Long Until I See Results From Mewing or Jaw Exercises?

Expect initial tone changes in 6-12 weeks. Noticeable soft-tissue improvement often appears at 3-6 months with consistent practice and proper diet.

Can Devices Like Jawzrsize Help?

Yes, devices can accelerate muscle hypertrophy when used correctly. Use short sessions to prevent masseter overdevelopment and TMJ stress; costs typically $20-60.

Will Botox for the Masseter Make My Face Look Slimmer?

Yes, Botox reduces masseter muscle activity and can slim the lower face in 4-6 weeks, lasting about 4-6 months. Multiple sessions are usually required for maintenance.

Is Mewing Safe for Everyone?

Mewing (correct tongue posture and nasal breathing) is generally safe, but people with significant malocclusion, airway issues, or TMJ disorders should consult a dentist or ENT physician before intensive practice.

Should I Get Surgery for a Weak Chin or Jawline?

Surgery is appropriate for major structural issues or when non-surgical options fail. Expect consultation with oral and maxillofacial surgeons and costs typically starting at several thousand dollars.

Next Steps

Start a 12-week plan

Weeks 1-4: learn mewing posture, do the jawline resistance routine 10 minutes daily, take weekly photos.
Weeks 5-12: increase intensity and add chewing or a Jawzrsize session 3 times per week.

Track objectively

Use the same phone, distance, lighting, and neutral expression for weekly photos. Record weight and neck circumference monthly.

Evaluate after 3 months

If you see improvement in tone and posture, continue. If you want structural change, schedule consultations with an orthodontist or oral surgeon.

Budget and choose next options

For quick cosmetic boost, consult a dermatologist about Botox or fillers (cost $600-2,000).
For long-term skeletal change, schedule orthodontic consults and ask about timelines and full treatment estimates.

Checklist to start today

Take baseline photos front and profile.
Practice mewing 5 minutes, 4 times a day.
Do the jawline resistance routine 10 minutes daily.
Track weight and set a 3-month review date.

Do Face Exercises Work Reddit - Mewing Jawline Guide