- Tests have started on more than 250 patients at a hospital in South Korea
- It is hoped that it can get rid of the double chin, which is caused by many factors
Double chins can be the scourge of even the most beautiful women in the world, with actor Richard Burton once unkindly saying that his lover Elizabeth Taylor had one.
But now researchers say the humble soybean can get rid of unwanted facial fat.
In one trial, a compound is used to selectively break down so-called submental fat, which affects 60 percent of people.
Research has suggested that the fat, which is often linked to obesity, can run in families and lead to a loss of skin elasticity with age.
There are a number of other causes for a double chin.
Genetic research has suggested that it may run in families, and the loss of skin elasticity with age can also cause the skin, including under the chin, to sag.
Double chins can be the scourge of even the most beautiful women in the world, with actor Richard Burton once unkindly saying that his lover Elizabeth Taylor had one
Poor posture can also weaken the neck and chin muscles over time, leading to loss of skin elasticity.
Last week, tests began on more than 250 patients at Chung-Ang University Hospital in South Korea.
Researchers using a compound known as AYP-101, developed by Amipharm, claim: ‘This is the world’s first and only injectable agent that can selectively break down only fat cells.’
But Dr Bav Shergill, dermatologist and honorary senior lecturer at the University of Manchester, warned: ‘The biggest problem (in previous testing) is the range of side effects, including overcorrection and numbness.
‘Many attempts have been made to find a perfect fat-dissolving agent.
‘The biggest problem is the variety of side effects.
Now researchers say the humble soybean can get rid of unwanted facial fat
A compound is used to selectively break down what is called submental fat (stock image)
‘Today’s products require very precise placement to prevent beard loss, overcorrection and numbness.
“It will be interesting to see the results.”
When it came to Elizabeth Taylor’s alleged double chin, Richard Burton was less than chivalrous at times.
She was undisputedly one of the most beautiful women of the twentieth century, but he once stated: ‘She has the beginnings of a double chin, her legs are too short and she has a slight belly belly.’