How to Make Your Side Profile Better by Changing Your Tongue Posture

Learn how to enhance your side profile by adjusting your tongue posture. This article will guide you through simple exercises to improve your tongue position and ultimately improve your jawline and facial aesthetics. Discover how a small change in your oral posture can make a big difference in your appearance.
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How to Make Your Side Profile Better by Changing Your Tongue Posture
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Want to enhance your side profile and get a more sculpted look to capture the perfect photo? Look no further, We have got you covered!

In this article we will be discussing:

  • What is a Side Profile
  • Characteristics of an Aesthetically Pleasing Side Profile
  • Factors Influencing the Appearance Of Your Side Profile
  • Ways to Improve and Enhance Your Side Profile
  • How to Capture the Perfect Side Portrait

 And much more. So now, Let's Begin

What is a Side Profile?


Side Profile is the view or photograph of a person’s face taken from a 90-degree angle, either to the left or the right, instead of facing the camera head-on. The angle captures one side of the face.

The most prominent features that define the side profile are the jawline, the shape of the chin and the nose, and other facial features. It is commonly used in dental evaluations as it is a very good visual indicator of your dental and facial health.

This pose is also well-known in the modeling industry, and many models use it to showcase their balanced facial symmetry.

              Side profile of a female model

          

Importance of a Good Side Profile

Most individuals don't realize the importance of their side profile. Instead, they are attentionally biased towards their frontal profile, as we don't usually see our side profile. When we look into a mirror or take a selfie, we primarily see our front profile. 

Your side profile is just as important, or arguably even more important than your frontal profile. Because in clinical evaluations, a side profile can tell a lot more things about your face that you won't be able to detect if you looked at someone face to face.

          

Features like eyes, cheeks, and ears are more prominent in the frontal profile. While the symmetry of the nose, chin, and forehead can be more easily assessed or determined from your side profile.

When someone looks at you from a side, your side profile is the first thing they notice, and as the phrase goes, First Impression Is The Last Impression. Therefore, you want your first impression to be good and lasting, and a good side profile can do exactly that. It can make you look more attractive in the eyes of others, which can also make you feel more confident.

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Understanding The Side Profile Aesthetics 

Characteristics of an Aesthetically Pleasing Side Profile

An aesthetically pleasing side profile is the epitome of symmetry and sharpness of your facial features, particularly in your nose, chin, and lips. These three features have a great impact on your side profile and overall facial features.  

People with balanced and well-defined facial looks are generally considered more attractive. But, beauty standards are subjective, as they are influenced by cultural norms and individual preferences. Keeping that in mind, there are some commonly perceived characteristics of an aesthetically pleasing side profile. These include

  • A Chiseled Jawline
  • Balanced Harline 
  • A Symmetric Nose
  • Proportional Ears
  • Adequate Neck Length
  • A Refined Chin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VmFIMvkohc

 

Factors Influencing Side Profile Appearance

There are various factors that can influence the appearance of your facial features, and the features of your side profile, including the following

Genetics

The shape of your facial features such as your nose and chin, are primarily influenced by genetics and are often hereditary. That is why different ethnic populations have different facial features.

For example, people of West African, South Asian, and East Asian ancestry have wider nasal alare as compared to people of European ancestry. This is due to the difference in the climate of these regions.

Aging and Excessive Fat

As we age, our bodies start to produce less and less elastin and collagen proteins. These proteins play a vital role in maintaining the elasticity and firmness of our skin. As their production gradually decreases, our skin loses its ability to retain its original shape, which can result in the sagging of the skin.

This sagging of the skin can also lead to double chins, which can negatively influence your side profile.

          

Excess fat is caused by various reasons, such as an unhealthy diet or insufficient physical activity. It can lead to rounder faces, which can cause your bone structure to be less prominent and your jawline to appear less defined.

Excessive fat can also cause your skin to stretch more and become less elastic, which may also result in sagging and the appearance of a double chin. Other than its effects on your physical features, excessive fat also increases the risk of health-related problems. It can also have a bad effect on your mental health as you may start to feel self-conscious.

An obese woman with a double chin

              

Environmental Effects

Environmental factors such as exposure to UV radiation, pollutants, and extreme temperatures can damage your skin, and therefore affect the appearance of your side profile. Dust in the air can clog your skin pores, which can lead to acne and dark spots ( which can be permanent ).

Side profile of a lady with acne and dark spots‍

            

Exposure to Ultraviolet Rays without proper protection can lead to short-term and long-term damage to your skin cells. This damage can manifest in various ways including Pigmentation, wrinkles, and in some rare cases, even cancer.

High temperatures can cause our bodies to lose fluids through excessive sweating,  which leads to dehydration. Dehydration causes the skin to become dull, cracked, and itchy.

Cold temperatures, on the other hand, can trigger conditions such as eczema ( atopic dermatitis ) and dry skin.

Environmental factors can also have a positive effect on your skin. For example, living in a humid environment can help your skin from drying out, which can make your skin feel more nourished and soft.

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Tongue Posture

Tongue posture refers to the position of your tongue when it is at rest. Most people don't realize this, but your tongue posture has a significant impact on your facial appearance. About 47% of the American population has incorrect tongue posture. 

Incorrect tongue posture, such as keeping your tongue at the bottom of your mouth, can lead to a double chin and other health problems. Touching your teeth with your tongue is another incorrect tongue posture. It can lead to deformation of your front teeth, which can potentially result in an overbite

Overbite is a condition in which your upper teeth don't align with your lower teeth. It can have a bad effect on your overall facial looks, and it can also lead to dental problems such as tooth damage, and not being able to chew properly.  Overbite can make your face look asymmetric which can make your side profile look unattractive.

Side profile of a teen with an open bite
Side profile of a teen with an open bite

     

Breathing and its Effects on Your Health and Appearance

Mouth Breathing

Most of us breathe subconsciously and don't give much attention to it. We generally don't care if we breathe through our mouth or nose, as we don't realize the difference between these two very different ways.

Breathing through your mouth is considered bad by most experts, and it can cause complications such as asthma, gum diseases, snoring, and sleep disorders. It can also affect your physical appearance as mouth breathing is one of the most common reasons for long and narrow faces and crooked teeth.

       Side profile of a mouth breather
       Side profile of a mouth breather

When you breathe through your mouth, the tongue rests at the bottom of your mouth, so that the air can pass in and out of the mouth. This can result in sagging of the skin beneath the chin, which can increase the appearance of a double chin.

Nasal Breathing

Some of the reasons why nasal breathing is better than mouth breathing:

  • Nasal Hairs: These hairs act as a filter, which prevents dust and other foreign particles from entering our bodies.
  • Humidify Inhaled Air: Your nose not only filters the air you breathe in but also warms and humidifies it. This process brings the temperature of the air similar to that of your body, making it easier for the lungs to use.
  • Production of Nitric Oxide: Another reason why nasal breathing is better than mouth breathing, is the production of a gas called nitric oxide while you breathe. This gas acts as a vasodilator, which means that it helps to widen your blood vessels which improve your blood flow and the circulation of oxygen throughout your body.

Some other benefits of nasal breathing are:

  • Reduced risk of allergies
  • Reduced risk of sleep apnea and snoring
  • Improved lung capacity 
  • Maintain normal blood pressure

Mewing and Improving Tongue Posture for a better Side Profile

The Concept of Mewing and its Benefits

Mewing is a practice that involves keeping your tongue in the correct position, resting against the roof of the mouth behind your upper front teeth, and keeping your lips closed while breathing through your nose. You have to maintain this posture at all times.

Read our ultimate guide on how to mew correctly.

Mewing is named after Dr. John Mew, who is a renowned British orthodontist, and the originator of the mewing technique. In the past few years, mewing has become a hot topic of discussion over the internet, due to a large number of mewing before and after images and by the efforts of Dr. Micheal Mew ( son of Dr . John Mew ), who has popularized this technique through his videos and youtube channel.

Mewing has many health and aesthetic benefits as reported by various individuals and orthodontic experts. Some of them are

  • Improved Jawline
  • Realigned Teeth
  • Better Posture
  • Improved Nasal breathing
  • Reduced Double Chin

However, keep in mind that as mewing is a natural non-invasive method, it can take 6 or more months to see any meaningful results of it on your physical features.

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What is Proper Tongue Posture and its Role in Side Profile Improvement?

As we already discussed, your tongue posture has a significant impact on your facial features, and incorrect tongue posture can result in teeth misalignment, a double chin, a weak jawline, and other issues. 

Your tongue is supposed to rest on the roof of your mouth, behind your front teeth. Your lips should be closed and your teeth slightly separated or gently touched, but it is important not to clench them with force. Your whole tongue, not just the tip should be resting against your palate.

Here is a diagram to help you better understand proper tongue posture.

If you are new to this, it is understandable that you may face difficulties keeping your tongue in the correct position all the time. Install the mewing app and learn all the important techniques for a better side profile.

Techniques to Reduce Double Chin and Enhance the Jawline

Your jawline and chin are one of the most prominent features in your side profile and overall facial looks. Their shapes can greatly impact the aesthetic appeal of your face. A sharp and well defined-jawline and a symmetrical chin are considered attractive by modern standards.

On the other hand, double chins and a weak jawline are a turnoff for most people. Fortunately, there are several effective techniques that you can use to reduce your double chin and enhance your jawline. Keep reading to discover these techniques. 

Immediate Effects: Pressing the Tongue to the Roof of the Mouth

Incorrect tongue posture can lead to sagging of the skin under the chin, which can contribute to the appearance of a double chin. It can also result in a weak jawline.

Correct tongue posture is when your whole tongue ( including the posterior third ) is pressed up against the palate of your mouth. It can help in lifting the skin under your chin which can reduce the appearance of a double chin

It can also contribute to the appearance of a more defined and toned jawline as it promotes the development of the maxilla ( the bone that forms the upper jaw).

When the tongue is in the correct position, it applies gentle pressure on the maxilla, which stimulates bone growth. Over time, this can lead to a more defined jawline and an overall symmetrical facial look

         Changes in the appearance of a double chin before and after correcting tongue posture

Strengthening Your Jaw and Neck Through Exercise

Various exercises focus on your jaw and neck muscles. These exercises can help you reduce your double chin and get a more prominent jawline. Some of these exercises are

  • Jawline Stretch
  • Chin up
  • Tongue Twister
  • Fish Lips

If you are consistent and practice these exercises daily, you can start seeing results within a few weeks.

Hydration's Role in Double Chin Reduction

Drinking plenty of water is one of the most effective ways to eliminate a double chin. Water flushes out toxins from your body which reduces bloating. Moreover, drinking adequate water will keep your skin hydrated and healthy, and hydrated skin has much better elasticity, which makes it less prone to sagging. 

Balancing Your Diet and Cutting Down on Salt

The diet you eat has a major impact on your physique, especially your facial features. Eating a balanced diet can help you get rid of excessive fat, which can help you reduce the appearance of a double chin. 

Additionally, eating too much salt can lead to fluid retention in your body, which can make a double chin more prominent. So, limiting salt in your diet can also help you get rid of a double chin.

Tips for Capturing the Perfect Side Portrait 

Identifying the Best Side of the Face

As a side portrait captures only one side of the face, you have the option to choose which side of the face you want to showcase, the left or the right. The decision can be made by identifying the unique features of each side and then determining which side can be considered the  “good side”.

For instance, some individuals may have a tattoo or a piercing on one side of the face, which depending upon the circumstances, they might not want it to be visible in the picture. Therefore, they can choose the other side, which will be considered the “good side”.

Composition and Posing Techniques for a Flattering Side Profile

In a side profile photo shoot, there are only a few poses that you can do with your head. 

Some of the side profile poses that may help with the appearance of a double chin are

Chin-up Pose: This pose involves tilting your chin slightly upwards. It can help reduce the appearance of a double chin as it tightens the skin under your chin

Tilting Your Head Pose: In this pose, you tilt your head slightly to one side. This can also reduce the appearance of a double chin by emphasizing the jawline

It is essential to carefully select the scenery to ensure that it matches the theme of the photo. Also, choose the right time of the day for the photoshoot as it can have an impact on the overall image quality. To convey your intended message, make sure that every compositional element aligns with the vision that you had in mind.

For example, an image that is supposed to convey a message of happiness, love, or joy, should be captured in a colorful and bright environment.

Lighting Techniques for Side Portraits

By experimenting with different lighting techniques, you may find a good suit for your theme, one that can add depth to your photo. Some of the lighting techniques that you can test are

  • Rim Light: To create a rim light effect, place a single flash behind the model and point it towards the subject. This technique will only light up the contour of the subject head. You can also use multiple lights if you want to create a stronger rim effect.

  • Sidelight: To use this technique, place a light left or right of the subject. You can then adjust its brightness and then focus it on those facial features of the subject that you want to be prominent in the photograph.

  • Silhouette: In Silhouette photography, the subject appears as a dark outline against a brightly lit background. You can use additional lights to slightly reveal some of the facial features of the subject.

Trying Different Expressions and Angles

Expressions play a crucial role in photography, as they convey a particular emotion. A simple expression such as a slight smile can add a completely different meaning to your photo. For example, for a sad shot, the subject can look slightly downwards. This will convey the message that the subject is in grief or remorse.

You can also try experimenting with different angles. If the subject has a slight double chin, you can position the camera above the subject, so that it focuses on other facial features rather than the chin.

Celebrities with a Great Side Profile

Timothee Chalamet’s Side Profile
Timothee Chalamet’s Side Profile

                             

Ariana Grande’s Side Profile
             Frank Sinatra's Side Profile

Ariana Grande’s Side Profile

                             

Conclusion

Consistency is the key when it comes to achieving a better side profile. Whether you are trying to eliminate your double chin or correct a specific facial feature, It is important that you consistently work towards your goal.

While mewing, the most common mistake people make is not being consistent. Mewing is not a quick fix for your problems, just like all natural treatments it can take time to show meaningful results. If you stay consistent, it will slowly become a permanent habit of yours, a part of your life. You won't have to force your tongue into the correct position. It will become your default tongue position.

While mewing alone can be a helpful technique, you must combine it with other healthy habits such as eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. All of these practices together will help you achieve your desired result more quickly and effectively.

You can check our mewing app here. It will consistently remind you to correct your tongue posture so that it becomes a habit.

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The information provided in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or a substitute for professional guidance. Mewing and other techniques mentioned on this website may not be suitable for everyone, and individual results may vary. We strongly recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as an orthodontist, dentist, or myofunctional therapist, before starting any new oral or facial exercises, particularly if you have existing dental, orthodontic, or health concerns.
Written by
Yury Nebyshynets
June 27, 2023