How to get rid of a double chin naturally?

A double chin is the accumulation of adipose tissue, sagging skin or water retention under the chin, forming a characteristic fold between the face and the neck. This phenomenon is extremely common; it can affect anyone, regardless of weight or age, and has absolutely no impact on health.

A matter of genetics and body type

Genetic predisposition plays a role that is often underestimated. Some people naturally inherit a jawbone structure or a slightly receding chin, which contributes to the appearance of a double chin. Skin quality and fat distribution are also partly determined by genes.

The accumulation of subcutaneous fat

The area under the chin is one of the places where the body stores fat as a priority, especially when gaining weight overall. This fat is often difficult to eliminate, even with dietary changes, because the body cannot target a specific area during weight loss.

Age-related skin sagging

Over time, the production of collagen andelastin in the dermis naturally decreases. These two structural proteins are responsible for the firmness and elasticity of the skin. When they become deficient, the skin loses its tone and begins to "sag," particularly around the neck and chin. This process accelerates after age 40 and can cause or accentuate a double chin.

Posture and lifestyle

An often-overlooked factor: posture. Spending many hours with your head tilted forward—whether in front of a screen, a phone, or a desk—creates chronic tension in the neck and gradually weakens the muscles of the jawline and chin. This poor posture, sometimes called "tech neck" or "phone neck", contributes to sagging and the formation of a double chin over time.

The causes of a double chin can be functional and related to the body’s mechanics. This is where a muscle that’s too often overlooked comes into play: the sternocleidomastoid muscle, also known as the SCM.

The SCM is one of the most powerful muscles in the neck. It extends diagonally from the base of the skull—more specifically from the mastoid process located behind the ear—to the sternum and the clavicle. It serves multiple functions: it allows the head to turn, tilt to the side, and bend forward. In practice, it is constantly engaged, often in positions of tension or postural compensation.

When chronically contracted—which is very common in people who sit for long periods, are stressed, or use their smartphones extensively—the SCM can create a compression effect in the neck that disrupts the local lymphatic circulation, contributes to the sensation of "heavy face", and indirectly contributes to sagging of the lower face.

Why does this muscle affect the appearance of the face?

The sternocleidomastoid muscle connects the base of the skull to the sternum and the clavicle. When contracted, it can impede lymphatic circulation and create a feeling of congestion in the neck and lower face. Conversely, when relaxed, the neck appears longer and facial features look more defined. Working this muscle is not intended to strengthen it, but to relax it in order to release tension and promote better circulation.

It’s not always easy to distinguish between true skin sagging, fat accumulation, or simple water retention. Here are the most common signs that indicate the facial contour is beginning to lose its definition:

• A less defined jawline, with a less distinct line between the face and the neck 

• A visible crease under the chin, even when the face is in a neutral position and the head is upright 

• A feeling of heaviness in the lower face, especially upon waking 

• Cheeks that appear to be "sagging", with a loss of volume in the upper part and excess volume in the lower part 

• A neck that appears shorter or thicker, often linked to chronic muscle tension 

• Tender lymph nodes under the jaw, a sign of slowed drainage 

• Dull, less plump skin in the chin and neck area.

There is no miracle solution, but consistent and regular approaches yield real, visible results. The idea is to address several factors at once: skin quality, muscle tone, circulation, and water retention.

Cosmetic products

Topical treatments do not change the underlying structure, but they play a complementary role in improving the appearance of a double chin. By targeting the firmness, elasticity, and hydration of the skin, they prepare the ground and maximise the effectiveness of other techniques.

Certain active ingredients are particularly beneficial. Plant oils rich in essential fatty acids, such as jojoba oil, argan oil, or rosehip oil, deeply nourish and soften the skin, making it more resistant to sagging. Firming active ingredients, such as caffeine or ivy extract, help firm the skin and reduce puffiness. Finally, skincare products containing hyaluronic acid support the skin’s structure and compensate for age-related collagen loss.

Apply preferably to clean, slightly damp skin, always moving upward from the base of the neck toward the chin, to support natural lymphatic drainage. Just a few drops are enough: the key is consistency.

Our product selection

Active Ingredient: Natural Caffeine

Caffeine is known for its lipolytic properties. It helps break down fat deposits and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Water-soluble, it blends easily into creams, gels, or lotions. Ideal for targeted slimming treatments, it also combats sagging skin and helps refine facial contours.

Precautions: This active ingredient must not be swallowed, as ingesting pure caffeine is harmful to the body. Keep the bottle out of reach of children, follow the recommended dosage, and do not use on pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Discover the Natural Caffeine Active Ingredient

Organic Ivy Extract

Obtained by macerating ivy leaves in a water/glycerin mixture, its saponins help lipids stored in fat cells return to the bloodstream, giving it a recognised anti-cellulite effect. Firming, it tightens the skin and reduces the appearance of cellulite.

Precautions: Since this hydroglycerin extract is sensitive to contamination, it is recommended to store it in the refrigerator and use it within six months of opening. Keep the bottle out of reach of children, do not swallow, and follow the recommended dosages.

Discover Organic Ivy Extract

3.5% Hyaluronic Acid Concentrated Serum

Composed of hyaluronic acid with varying molecular weights, this serum improves elasticity, fills in wrinkles, and deeply hydrates the skin. 100% naturally derived, its lightweight texture absorbs instantly to plump and firm the face and neck with long-lasting results.

Precautions: Avoid contact with the eyes, and rinse immediately and thoroughly with clean water if contact occurs.

Discover the 3.5% Hyaluronic Acid Concentrated Serum

Facial massage

Self-massage is one of the most effective techniques for addressing a double chin, provided it is done correctly. It has multiple benefits: it stimulates blood microcirculation, promotes lymphatic drainage, relaxes superficial and deep muscles, and enhances the penetration of cosmetic active ingredients.

For the chin and neck area, simply apply a few drops of a blend of plant oils or a serum to your clean skin. Start with gentle stroking using your fingertips, moving upward from the décolleté toward the chin to stimulate circulation. Next, use the backs of your hands to perform light tapping motions under the chin. This helps to decongest the tissues and firm the skin. Next, use your thumbs to make small circles along the jawline, from the ear toward the chin. Finish with light strokes moving upward toward the ears, where an important lymph node is located.

When performed for 5 to 10 minutes a day, this type of massage produces visible results in just a few weeks: firmer skin, less taut features, and a feeling of lightness in the lower face.

Our selection of facial massage accessories

Rose Quartz Gua Sha

This ancient massage tool is inspired by traditional Chinese medicine. Its ergonomic shape follows the contours of the face for a natural lift. Used at a 45° angle to help skincare products penetrate, it stimulates microcirculation, promotes lymphatic drainage, and helps sculpt the facial contours.

Discover the Rose Quartz Facial Gua Sha

Rose Quartz Facial Roller

Used daily after applying your oil, cream, or serum, its rose quartz stones improve skin elasticity, reduce puffiness around the eyes, and add radiance. Ideal for stimulating natural collagen production and enhancing the absorption of active ingredients, it is suitable for all skin types.

Discover the Rose Quartz Facial Roller

Keep these accessories cool to maximise their decongesting effect.

Incorporating regular massage into your beauty routine is an investment in the long-term health of your tissues. Here are the main benefits observed:

• Improved lymphatic drainage: massage stimulates lymphatic circulation, reducing water retention and puffiness in the lower face 

• Better cell oxygenation: enhanced microcirculation means better-nourished cells and more radiant skin 

• Gradual muscle toning: repeated movements strengthen and reactivate the subcutaneous muscles 

• Relief of muscle tension: particularly in the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle, a common source of congestion and facial heaviness 

• Improved penetration of cosmetic active ingredients: a properly performed massage promotes the absorption of applied skincare products and thus their effectiveness 

• Visible lifting effect: from the very first sessions, the contours appear slightly more defined 

• Overall well-being and stress reduction: facial massage also acts on the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and indirectly reducing stress-related swelling

SCM massage is a technique little known to the general public, yet incredibly effective at releasing deep tension in the neck and improving the overall appearance of the lower face. Before you begin, take a few seconds to locate this muscle: turn your head to one side, and you’ll see a tendinous ridge running from your ear to the base of your sternum—that’s it.

This massage should be performed slowly, without applying pressure. It should never be painful. Turn your head to one side, then tilt it slightly backward: the muscle becomes visible and palpable on the side of your neck. Gently pinch it between your thumb and index finger, then tilt your head to the other side to deepen the stretch. Release, then start again, gradually moving up from the base of the neck toward the ear. If the muscle is too sensitive, light tapping is sufficient. The goal is to let the body release the area, without applying too much pressure.

This massage can be performed for a few minutes a day, preferably in the evening or after a hot shower, when the tissues are more relaxed. Be sure to work on both sides gently. When performed regularly, this massage helps improve neck drainage, reduce swelling, and prevent sagging of the lower face.

Prevention is better than correction. Here are the specific habits to adopt to maintain your facial definition over time:

1. Mind your posture: Keep your head upright, your shoulders relaxed, and avoid spending long hours with your neck bent toward your phone or computer

2. Stay well-hydrated: Proper internal hydration (1.5 to 2 litres of water per day) helps the body naturally flush out toxins and limit water retention

3. Adopt a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet: cut back on salt, refined sugar, and ultra-processed foods, which promote fluid retention and tissue inflammation

4. Incorporate a neck and face massage into your routine: five minutes a day is enough to maintain skin and muscle tone

5. Practice facial yoga exercises regularly: a daily ten-minute session produces visible results in just a few weeks

6. Use appropriate skincare products morning and night: a serum or oil applied by moving upward from the collarbone toward the chin optimises long-term skin firmness

7. Protect your skin from the sun: UV rays accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin. Apply sunscreen to your neck and décolletage, areas that are often overlooked.

SCM and facial massage should never be painful: if you experience sharp pain, pain radiating into your arm or head, or dizziness, stop and consult a healthcare professional. Avoid massaging irritated skin, skin lesions, acne, or active inflammation. If you have a known spinal condition (herniated disc, advanced spinal osteoarthritis, tendinitis), consult a doctor before performing neck massages.

Massage is too often overlooked in beauty routines. By releasing deep-seated tension, we create conditions conducive to better drainage and tissue relaxation, which, over time, visibly improves the skin’s appearance. The key is consistency: a few minutes a day, appropriate care, and patience. The results aren’t immediate, but they’re long-lasting, and above all, they’re accessible to everyone.

Laetitia is an editorial communications consultant specialising in beauty and wellness content. Passionate about natural cosmetics, she works with brands that share her vision of authentic and responsible beauty. Always on the lookout for the latest developments, she enjoys analysing trends and innovations in the sector.