Different Types Of Dimples On Face

You’ve probably smiled at someone and noticed those tiny little dents in their cheeks — those are dimples. Some people are born with them, others wish they had them, and some even go under the knife to get them. But not all dimples are the same. There are actually several different types of dimples on face — from the classic cheek dimples you see when someone grins, to the less common ones that appear on the chin or even near the mouth. Each type has its own unique charm and, believe it or not, a bit of science behind how they form.

What makes dimples so special? Well, for one, they’re not super common. Only about 20-30% of people have them, and even fewer have more than one type. Some dimples show up only when you smile, while others are visible all the time. And then there's the whole thing about genetics — if your parent has them, there's a decent chance you might too. But, it's not a guarantee. In fact, it's kind of a mystery how exactly they come about, which makes them all the more intriguing.

Whether you’ve got dimples or you're just curious about them, there’s a lot more to know than you might think. From the most common ones you see in photos to the rare kinds that only a few people have, this guide is all about exploring the different types of dimples on face. We’ll break them down one by one, explain how they form, and even touch on why some people choose to create them artificially. Let’s get into it.

What Are The Different Types Of Dimples On Face?

When most people think of dimples, they picture those cute little indentations on the cheeks. But the different types of dimples on face go beyond just that. In fact, there are several variations, each with its own location, cause, and sometimes even meaning. Here's a breakdown of the most common kinds:

  1. Cheek dimples – The most well-known type, appearing on one or both cheeks when you smile.
  2. Chin dimples – Also known as cleft chins, these are present all the time and are more common in males.
  3. Mouth corner dimples – These show up at the corners of the lips when you smile.
  4. Lower lip dimples – A rarer type, found on the lower lip and often associated with certain genetic traits.
  5. Permanent dimples – These are always visible, not just when smiling.
  6. Temporary dimples – These only appear when you're smiling or making certain facial expressions.
  7. Long dimples – Slightly deeper and extend a bit further than regular cheek dimples.
  8. Double dimples – Two small indentations on a single cheek, giving a unique appearance.

Each of these types is formed differently, some from muscle structure, others from genetic inheritance. So if you’ve ever wondered why your dimple isn’t like your friend’s, now you know — there's more than one kind!

Are Dimples On The Cheeks The Same As Dimples Elsewhere On The Face?

Great question. Not all different types of dimples on face are created equal. Cheek dimples, for example, are caused by a variation in the zygomaticus major muscle, which controls smiling. When that muscle is shorter or has a split, it pulls the skin inward, creating the indentation we call a dimple.

On the other hand, chin dimples — or cleft chins — are more about bone structure. They happen when the two halves of the lower jaw don’t fully fuse during development. That’s why some people have a noticeable dip in their chin, no matter what facial expression they make. Meanwhile, mouth corner dimples are more about how the muscles around the lips contract when you smile. So even though they’re all dimples, they don’t all form the same way.

Do All Dimples Appear When You Smile?

Nope, not at all. While many different types of dimples on face show up when you smile, some are visible all the time. Take the cleft chin, for instance — that’s there whether you’re grinning or just sitting quietly. Then there are the long dimples and double dimples, which might be more noticeable when you're smiling, but can still be seen even when your face is at rest.

Temporary dimples, though, only appear when you make a facial expression. These are often the kind you see in babies and young children, and they tend to fade as the facial muscles mature. So the next time you see someone with a dimple even when they’re not smiling, you’ll know it’s one of the permanent types.

How Do Dimples Form On The Face?

Believe it or not, dimples are kind of a muscle quirk. Most of the different types of dimples on face are caused by variations in the facial muscles — especially the ones that control your smile. For cheek dimples, the main player is the zygomaticus major muscle. In most people, that muscle is a single, smooth band that connects from the cheekbone to the corner of the mouth.

But in people with dimples, that muscle might be split or shorter than usual. When they smile, the muscle pulls on the skin, creating a small indentation — and that’s your dimple. The exact way this happens can vary from person to person, which is why some dimples are deeper than others, or only appear on one side.

As for chin dimples, those come from how the jawbone develops. During fetal development, the two halves of the lower jaw should fuse together. If they don’t quite meet perfectly, a small indentation is left behind — and that’s your cleft chin. So in a way, dimples are a bit like freckles — a natural, genetic quirk that gives your face its unique character.

Are Dimples Genetic Or Can They Appear Later In Life?

So, you might be wondering — are dimples something you’re born with, or can they pop up later in life? Well, for most people, yes, they are genetic. That means if one or both of your parents have dimples, there’s a chance you might too. But it’s not a sure thing, because dimple genetics are kind of unpredictable.

Some people start off with dimples as kids and then seem to “lose” them as they grow up. That’s because baby fat and developing facial muscles can make temporary dimples appear more prominent. As those muscles develop and the face matures, the dimples can fade. So if you had dimples as a kid but don’t now — that’s probably why.

Can You Get Dimples Without Being Born With Them?

Technically, yes. While most different types of dimples on face are genetic, some people develop them later in life due to weight loss or changes in facial structure. If you lose a lot of facial fat, for example, your cheekbones might become more pronounced and create the illusion of a dimple. But it’s not the same as having a genetic dimple — more like a temporary effect.

Alternatively, some people opt for a procedure called dimpleplasty — a type of cosmetic surgery that creates artificial dimples. It involves making a small incision inside the mouth and attaching the cheek muscle to the skin, creating that signature indentation. So while most dimples are natural, there are ways to get them if you weren’t born with them.

What Are The Most Common Types Of Dimples On The Face?

When it comes to different types of dimples on face, some are more common than others. Here’s a quick look at the top three you’re likely to see:

Cheek Dimples

These are by far the most well-known and widely recognized. Cheek dimples, also called buccal dimples, show up when you smile and are caused by a variation in the zygomaticus major muscle. They can appear on one or both cheeks, and some people have deeper ones than others. In many cultures, they’re considered a sign of youthfulness and charm.

Chin Dimples

Also known as cleft chins or butt chins, these are more common in men than women. They’re formed when the jawbone doesn’t fully fuse during development, leaving a small indentation. Unlike cheek dimples, these are usually permanent and visible all the time.

Mouth Corner Dimples

These are a bit less common and appear at the corners of the mouth when you smile. They can look like tiny dimples or slight creases, and they tend to be more subtle than cheek dimples. People with these often have a very expressive smile.

Are There Rare Or Unique Types Of Dimples On The Face?

You bet there are! While most different types of dimples on face are fairly common, there are some that are more unusual and stand out:

Double Dimples

These are two small indentations on a single cheek, sometimes lined up vertically. They’re pretty rare and give the face a unique, almost doll-like appearance. Many people with double dimples say they get a lot of compliments on their smile.

Long Dimples

Instead of a small indentation, long dimples extend further down the cheek and can sometimes look like a crease. They’re deeper and more pronounced than standard cheek dimples and are often associated with certain ethnicities.

Lower Lip Dimples

These are super rare and appear on the lower lip. They’re usually genetic and can sometimes be mistaken for a small scar or indentation. If you’ve got one of these, you’re in the minority!

Do Different Types Of Dimples Mean Different Things?

There’s a long-standing belief in some cultures that the different types of dimples on face can say something about a person’s personality or destiny. While science doesn’t back this up, it’s fun to explore the folklore behind dimples:

  • Cheek dimples are often associated with youthfulness, charm, and a happy-go-lucky personality.
  • Chin dimples are sometimes linked with strength and masculinity, especially in male celebrities.
  • Double dimples are seen as rare and unique, often associated with creativity or a playful nature.

Of course, none of this is scientifically proven, but it’s interesting how dimples have taken on such symbolic meanings in different parts of the world.

Can You Get Dimples Even If You’re Not Born With Them?

Yes, you can — and more people are opting for it than ever before. There’s a cosmetic procedure called dimpleplasty that allows people to create dimples if they weren’t born with them. It’s a minimally invasive surgery that involves making a small incision inside the mouth and attaching the cheek muscle to the skin, creating a natural-looking dimple.

It’s a popular choice among people who feel like their face lacks expressiveness or want to enhance their smile. Recovery is usually quick, and results can be permanent. So if you’ve ever wished you had one of the different types of dimples on face, modern cosmetic surgery might be your answer.

Conclusion

Dimples come in all shapes and sizes — and they’re more than just cute little dents in your cheeks. From cheek dimples to cleft chins, each of the different types of dimples on face has its own story to tell. Whether you were born with them, developed them later in life, or chose to create them through surgery, dimples are a fascinating blend of genetics, muscle structure, and personal expression.

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