Mentalis muscle: function and the orange-peel chin

The mentalis is a small paired muscle located in the chin, on each side of the midline. It arises from the mandible, just below the lower incisor teeth, and inserts into the skin of the chin. When it contracts, it lifts the skin of the chin and pushes the lower lip up and forward, as in an expression of doubt or crying.

Why does it matter in facial harmonization?

Excessive contraction of the mentalis leaves the skin of the chin looking wrinkled and uneven, popularly called "orange peel" or "peach chin". It can also deepen the labiomental fold and visually shorten the chin.

This overactivity is often compensatory. When the lip does not close easily, for example with a poorly projected chin, forward-tilted teeth or short lips, the mentalis works harder to seal the mouth. That is why it is worth investigating the cause before treating the muscle, assessing the profile, the bite and the relationship with the orbicularis oris muscle.

What options enter the plan?

Toxin in the mentalis muscle is a described use for softening the contraction and the look of the skin. When bony projection is lacking, chin filler may be added, at the professional's discretion. Excessive blocking or spread to neighboring muscles can affect lower lip movement and the smile. Indication and dose are defined by the licensed professional, after assessment.

In Harmy

The Chin point in the marking serves both filler and mentalis toxin. The projection shows the effect on the photo at rest.

Also called: chin muscle, mentalis.