Instant Facelift Trick Using Rubber Bracelets in the Ears, This is the Expert's Opinion

Illustration of facelift on the face. (Freepik)

JAKARTA - Beauty tricks pop up all the time and go viral on social media. Most recently, there is a trick to do a facelift or tighten the skin of the face instantly by using a rubber band.

In several videos uploaded on TikTok, users wrap a rubber band tightly around their ears for 10 to 30 minutes. This technique is claimed to reduce swollen faces, lift cheekbones, and shape jaw lines without medical procedures, injections, or fillers.

However, experts insist that the claim is not medically supported. There is no scientific evidence that tying rubber bands around the ears can affect the condition of the face.

"There is absolutely no scientific basis for this method," said Arizona-based dermatologist Dr. Brooke Jeffy, quoted from Popsugar, Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

The trick is considered ineffective and potentially dangerous to health, especially if it is done continuously. Wrapping rubber bands around the ears can hinder blood flow to damage the sensitive skin around the ears.

"This can hinder blood flow, cause discomfort, and potentially cause irritation or damage to sensitive skin around the ears," said master aesthetician, Katya Khayutin.

The changes to the face after performing the trick are also only temporary, due to the pull on the skin. After the rubber is removed, the face usually returns to its original state.

Therefore, compared to following these risky trends, experts recommend a method that has been proven to be safe to reduce facial puffiness and tighten the skin.

Some of them are by keeping the body hydrated, getting enough sleep, and reducing salt and alcohol consumption. It is also recommended to sleep with the head slightly higher.

"This position helps prevent fluid buildup on the face at night," says Brooke.

In addition, you can also do cold compresses or use a face roller that has been cooled with a movement towards the top. This helps lymphatic drainage, tightens pores, and shapes the face contour temporarily.