‘I’m a Surgeon & the New Skims Face Wrap Is as Scammy as It Gets—Here’s What to Buy Instead for a Snatched Jawline’
Katie Decker-Jacoby
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Skims is no stranger to launching odd products. From a bra with nipple piercings to arm compression shapers, we shouldn’t be so surprised by the Face Wrap, which launched on July 29, 2025 and has already managed to sell out. Yet, somehow, this product is truly shocking. It brings to mind images of The Weeknd in his bloodied bandage era and even Hannibal Lecter (yes, Anthony Hopkins has officially entered the chat with a video in which he dons the Kim Kardashian-created Face Wrap). But does this invention actually do anything, and should you buy one for yourself?
We consulted 10 experts—a mix of plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and orthodontists—to get to the bottom of this conundrum, because who else would really know whether this giant bandage has the potential to be effective?
Colorways: 2 (clay and cocoa)
Material: 81% polyamide, 19% Elastane
What is the Skims Face Wrap?
The Skims Face Wrap claims to be a “first-ever face innovation” that offers strong, targeted compression for shaping and sculpting. How exactly, you might be wondering? It’s made from the brand’s signature sculpting fabric (81% polyamide and 19% elastane), which contains collagen yarns. The wrap’s velcro closures at the top and nape of the neck ensure a snug fit that’s meant to help snatch your face.
The Face Wrap comes in one size and Clay and Cocoa colorways, with both ringing you up for $48 apiece. However, as of August 1, 2025, the new launch is sold out on Skims’ website. You can join the waitlist or keep reading for a handful of expert-backed alternatives.
What do experts think of the Skims Face Wrap?
While Skims claims this product can help shape and sculpt your face, there aren’t any studies that prove this. What’s the next best thing you can search for? Professional opinions. We asked 10 medical experts (yes, 10!!) for their honest thoughts, and they all seem to be on the same page.
FAQ
What are the benefits of the Skims Face Wrap?
Dr. Keyes: “The Skims Face Wrap is essentially a modernized compression garment, similar to the wraps plastic surgeons recommend after facial surgery. Its main potential benefit lies in providing light, uniform compression to the lower face and jawline, which may temporarily reduce mild puffiness and fluid accumulation, especially after treatments like radiofrequency, filler injections, or more invasive procedures like chin liposuction or facelifts. However, the keyword is temporary. There’s no strong evidence that wearing a face wrap alone can produce permanent lifting, contouring or anti-aging effects, especially if the wrap is being used without undergoing the previously mentioned procedures.”
Dr. Kopelman: “As a dermatologist and facial surgeon, I was genuinely curious when I first heard about the Skims Face Wrap. At first glance, it reminded me of the compression garments we use after facelifts or neck lipo—except this is clearly designed more for aesthetics than medical recovery. If there’s any benefit, it’s going to be very temporary. Wearing it overnight might help reduce puffiness a bit and make the jawline look more contoured in the morning, but that’s just from mild compression, not any lasting change. Think of it more like waking up with fewer sleep lines or less fluid retention—it’s superficial and short-lived.”
Dr. Breitbart: “This face wrap seems to be essentially a compression garment that mimics a post-surgical facial wraps often used after procedures like facelifts or neck liposuction. In a medical context, compression can help reduce swelling and provide support during healing. For the average consumer, the most this product might do is provide a temporary feeling of lift or contour while it’s being worn. That effect will undoubtedly disappear once the wrap comes off.”
What are collagen yarns?
Dr. Keyes: “Collagen yarns are textiles infused with collagen peptides (typically derived from fish or bovine sources) and embedded within the fabric. While it’s an innovative concept from a materials science perspective, collagen applied topically or worn in fabric form does not penetrate the skin barrier effectively. The skin’s outer layer, the stratum corneum, is highly selective in what it allows through, and large collagen molecules are simply too big. At best, these fabrics may feel comfortable while being relatively strong; however, overall, it seems to be more of a marketing gimmick than anything.”
Dr. Kopelman: “They’re promoting ‘collagen yarns’ in the fabric, and while that sounds exciting, I don’t expect any meaningful skin benefit. These are likely hydrolyzed collagen peptides woven into the material, but collagen molecules are far too large to penetrate the skin barrier. From a science standpoint, they don’t stimulate collagen production just by sitting on your skin. If anything, it might make the fabric feel smoother or slightly more hydrating, but it’s more of a marketing angle than a true skincare benefit.”
Dr. Nykiel: “Fancy Marketing – no benefits – No study to show support – ‘its spinning a new yarn on marketing.'”
Who should wear the Skims Face Wrap?
Dr. Broumand: “People who are looking for light compression to the face to try and reduce some facial swelling.”
Dr. Breitbart: “Someone recovering from a facelift or other lower face or neck procedure under the guidance of their surgeon might benefit from a similar compression device, but they should use one specifically designed for post-surgical healing.”
Dr. Kopelman: “I can see this being fun for someone who wants to experiment with a new beauty ritual or is hoping for a subtle, temporary sculpted look for a photo or event.”
Dr. Azarbehi: “The face wrap is suitable to those who want to have mild and non-invasive facial contouring or those who want to have support after the treatment. It goes particularly well with people with strong, strong skin.”
Dr. Fraundorf: “If there’s any group it might serve, it would be post-surgical patients—specifically those recovering from procedures like submental liposuction, where temporary compression is used to reduce swelling and support healing. But even then, this kind of wrap should only be used under the direct guidance of the surgeon, not as a self-prescribed (or Kim K. prescribed) beauty hack.”
Dr. Ponsky: “I would recommend a face wrap to anyone who is recovering from a procedure and experiencing any swelling or puffiness in the face. I don’t think it’s necessary to be worn in instances outside of reducing swelling.”
Who should not wear the Skims Face Wrap?
Dr. Kopelman: “I wouldn’t recommend it for people with sensitive skin, eczema, rosacea, or a history of pressure-related irritation. The material is synthetic, and if it’s tight or worn for too long, it could cause redness, chafing, or even some pressure marks around the ears and jawline. It’s not dangerous per se, but it’s not harmless for everyone either.”
Dr. Azarbehi: “It should not be used on people with sensitive skin, open wound and serious skin disorders such as eczema and acne because the pressure can worsen the condition.”
Dr. Fraundorf: “It’s more of a ‘trendy accessory’ than a therapeutic tool—and potentially counterproductive for those with TMJ or airway issues.”
Could there be any harm in wearing the Skims Face Wrap?
Dr. Breitbart: “Used briefly and correctly, the wrap is probably harmless. But if it’s worn too tightly or for extended periods, it might impede lymphatic drainage or irritate the skin from pressure and friction. It’s not going to permanently harm you, but it could definitely cause irritation or discomfort.”
Dr. Kopelman: “If someone wears it too tightly or has sensitive skin, yes, it could potentially cause irritation or discomfort. We know that skin under pressure—especially overnight—can get reactive. I’ve seen patients develop friction dermatitis or pressure lines just from wearing tight headbands or face masks. And it’s worth saying: this is not a medical-grade compression garment, so it’s not really designed with anatomy, circulation, or lymphatic drainage in mind. That matters when you’re compressing the face.”
Dr. Azarbehi: “Although it is safe in general, the Skims Face Wrap can be unsafe when worn over a long period of time or when it is tightened too tightly. Just like when using a product always make sure to read and follow the instructions diligently to avoid irritations or sensitivity. But once you feel discomfort you may take it off as needed.”
Can the Skims Face Wrap help with TMJ?
Dr. Fraundorf: “While the Skims Face Wrap is being marketed as a beauty and jaw-sculpting accessory—with collagen-infused yarns and soft compression—the actual benefits are minimal from a clinical standpoint. There is no evidence that it can help with TMJ disorders, bite issues, or reshaping the jawline. In fact, the way the wrap applies upward and backward pressure could potentially worsen TMJ symptoms in some individuals by increasing joint compression and restricting airway space. That said, there may be one indirect, unintended benefit: the wrap could help keep the mouth closed during sleep, similar to mouth tape. For some people, this might encourage nasal breathing, which is associated with better oxygenation, improved sleep quality, reduced dry mouth, and lower risk of dental issues. However, this effect is highly individual and not a substitute for medical-grade treatment.”
The Final Verdict
Dr. Keyes: “Shapewear (like many products in the Skims line) has roots in post-surgical recovery, where it plays a meaningful role in managing swelling and inflammation after procedures. In that context, the compression can enhance healing by reducing swelling, thereby improving contour. However, for individuals without post-operative swelling or fluid retention, the benefits of a face wrap like this are likely minimal and more hype than anything.”
Dr. Breitbart: “Just know the buzz around this product is driven by celebrity influence and not clinical effectiveness. I’d caution anyone hoping for real changes in facial contour to save their money for treatments that actually stimulate collagen or remodel facial structure.”
Dr. Kopelman: “This is a beauty fashion product—not a clinical tool. It looks cool, and I understand the appeal, but it’s not going to redefine your jawline or lift sagging skin. If you enjoy the ritual and it makes you feel pampered, great. But as a dermatologist, I just want people to be realistic about what this kind of wrap can actually do. If you’re really concerned about skin laxity or facial contour, talk to a professional—there are far more effective (and safe) ways to get meaningful results.”
Dr. Azarbehi: “The Skims Face Wrap is an excellent choice of those people who want to have a mild, daily procedure to encourage skin tightening and rejuvenation. It can easily be incorporated into a skincare routine and it is also flexible and comfortable to wear. But it cannot substitute professional procedures in case you want more dramatic outcomes. A good skincare regimen and consistent use can help improve the appearance of your skin with time.”
Dr. Lisiecki: “Just wearing a wrap like this without having undergone surgery is not going to induce any meaningful or lasting change in your jawline or neck contour, because no loose tissue is being tightened or removed. Wearing something like this may very, very temporarily reduce swelling under your chin. However, it also may worsen swelling in the front of your cheeks and your undereyes because you will be compressing the lymphatic channels that drain fluid from these areas.”
Dr. Nykiel: “Nothing special about this product – any facial compression wrap works – hydrating masks would work better – as they would soothe the face, decrease swelling and provide an improved hydrated skin. Yes, this is about as scammy as something gets.”
Dr. Fraundorf: “While Skims’ new Ultimate Face’ wrap is being marketed as a beauty and jaw-sculpting accessory—with collagen-infused yarns and their signature compression fabric to provide ‘ultra-soft jaw support’—at its core, it’s essentially a stretchy head wrap. It’s a product of the beauty industry, not a medical device, and there is no clinical evidence supporting therapeutic benefits for TMJ disorders, jaw reshaping, or bite-related issues. As for claims of ‘jaw sculpting,’ there’s currently no scientific evidence to support the idea that this type of product canreshape or contour the jawline. Facial aesthetics are influenced by a complex interplay of factors—genetics, skeletal structure, muscle development, soft tissue thickness, and long-term habits.”
Dr. Gruber: “A $48 wrap can’t duplicate a $12,000 lower-face lift.”
Expert-Approved Skims Face Wrap Alternatives
Most of our experts say there aren’t any alternatives to the $48 Skims Face Wrap, but recommend consulting your doctor if you do need something similar after a surgery or procedure. Essentially, leave it to the pros!
However, a few of our experts proposed Skims Face Wrap alternatives for sculpting the face—and they’re all available to buy on Amazon. Check them out below:
Looking for more long-term results? Dr. Broumand says, “If someone is looking to enhance the jawline, procedures like Morpheus8 by inmode is a non-surgical option. For patients with a fat deposit under their chain, a procedure like liposuction would be beneficial. We can also enhance the jawline with fillers or botox.”
Experts in This Story
- Dr. Nima Azarbehi, DO, Owner of Melt Lipo AZ
- Dr. Arnold Breitbart, MD, Head Plastic Surgeon at Long Island Facelift
- Dr. Stafford Broumand, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon of 740 Park Plastic Surgery
- Dr. Erin Fraundorf, DMD, MSD, Founder of BOCA Orthodontic + Whitening Studio
- Dr. Meegan Gruber, MD, PhD, From the TV show Awake Surgery
- Dr. Michael Keyes, MD, ASPS Member Surgeon
- Dr. Hannah Kopelman, Dermatologist at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery
- Dr. Jeff Lisiecki, Plastic Surgeon at Jeffrey Lisiecki MD PLLC
- Dr. Diana Ponsky, CEO at Ponsky Facial Plastic Surgery
- Dr. Matthew Nykiel, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon at SoCal Plastic Surgeons
