Doctors Warn Skims’ Viral Face Wrap Could Backfire: “Finally, Someone Said It”
Kim Kardashian’s shapewear brand Skims has sparked yet another online frenzy — but this time, it’s not over leggings or bodysuits. Last week, the company launched the Seamless Sculpt Face Wrap, a jawline-compressing headpiece priced at $82 (£52).
Marketed as being made from Skims’ “signature sculpting fabric” and “infused with collagen yarns for ultra-soft overnight jaw support,” the unusual product sold out almost instantly, leaving curious shoppers stuck on a waitlist. Social media buzzed with videos of people trying it on, praising its comfort and futuristic look.
But not everyone is convinced it’s the beauty shortcut it claims to be.
Plastic Surgeon Raises Red Flags
Plastic surgeon Dr Faryan Jalalabadi (@drjaluvmabody) posted a TikTok response that was part lighthearted, part serious. “Shout out to Skims for giving my post-op patients another jaw bra alternative to try,” he said, noting that the design does appear comfortable.
The catch? His approval only applies to people who have recently had surgery.
“If you have not undergone a facelift, neck lift, or neck lipo in the last two weeks, there is no reason for you to wrap your face and neck,” he warned.
Dr Jalalabadi explained that unnecessary compression could actually make swelling worse. “In doing so, you will only worsen your under-eye puffiness and facial swelling as this thing is compressing the outflow track of your lymphatics of your face,” he said, pointing to his cheeks and neck.
His comments struck a chord, with one user writing, “Finally — someone said it! Thank you.” Another added, “Thank you for this PSA. Maybe people will wake up that they sell us products for problems we didn’t even know we had.”
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Another Expert Weighs In
Dr Nikita Desai, medical doctor at Harley Street Skin Clinic, echoed the concerns. “While they can be fun to try out for a quick beauty routine, it’s worth noting that wearing a facial wrap for an extended period of time is not something I would advise,” she said.
She warned that prolonged use can restrict circulation, which could cause facial swelling — the opposite of the “snatched” look people are hoping for. It can also lead to skin irritation and discomfort, especially for those with TMJ disorders or sensitive skin.
Dr Desai was clear about the limits of such products. “They can’t offer permanent changes like facial contouring, fat reduction, or collagen boosting,” she said. “Any changes you see will reverse in a matter of hours as the compression loses its effect.”
While the Skims face wrap might be an intriguing addition to a short-term beauty routine, experts caution against expecting lasting results
The Takeaway
While the Skims face wrap might be an intriguing addition to a short-term beauty routine, experts caution against expecting lasting results — and warn it could cause more harm than good for the average user. As with many viral beauty products, the hype may be stronger than the science.
