Getting defined cheekbones involves a combination of lifestyle changes, facial exercises, and makeup techniques. Here's a comprehensive guide:
1. Manage Your Overall Body Fat Percentage
While you can't spot-reduce fat, reducing overall body fat can help make your cheekbones more prominent.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods. Include lean protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.
- Regular Exercise: Incorporate both cardio and strength training into your routine to burn calories and build muscle.
2. Hydration is Key
Staying hydrated improves skin elasticity and overall health, contributing to a more defined facial structure.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day.
- Eat Hydrating Foods: Incorporate fruits and vegetables with high water content, like watermelon and cucumbers.
3. Watch Your Sodium Intake
Excessive sodium can lead to water retention and facial puffiness, which can obscure your cheekbones.
- Limit Processed Foods: Processed foods are often high in sodium.
- Cook at Home: This allows you to control the amount of sodium in your meals.
- Read Food Labels: Be mindful of sodium content when grocery shopping.
4. Reduce Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol can dehydrate you and contribute to facial bloating, making your cheekbones less noticeable.
- Moderate Alcohol Intake: If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
- Stay Hydrated When Drinking: Drink water between alcoholic beverages.
5. Facial Exercises (Limited Scientific Backing)
While the evidence is limited, some believe facial exercises can strengthen facial muscles and potentially improve definition.
- Cheekbone Lift: Smile widely, then place your fingers on your cheekbones and gently lift the skin. Hold for a few seconds and repeat.
- Puffer Fish Face: Close your mouth and fill your cheeks with air, then move the air from one cheek to the other.
6. Microcurrent Facials
Microcurrent facials use low-voltage electrical currents to stimulate facial muscles. Some claim this can tone and lift the face, potentially making cheekbones more defined. However, scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited.
- Professional Treatments: Consider seeking professional microcurrent facial treatments from a licensed aesthetician.
- At-Home Devices: At-home microcurrent devices are available but may not be as effective as professional treatments.
7. Makeup Contouring
Makeup can create the illusion of higher, more defined cheekbones.
- Contour Powder: Use a contour powder that's a few shades darker than your skin tone. Apply it in the hollows of your cheeks, blending well.
- Highlight: Apply highlighter to the tops of your cheekbones to catch the light and enhance definition.
8. Set Realistic Expectations
Genetics play a significant role in determining your facial structure. While these tips can help, they may not dramatically change your natural bone structure.
