If you’ve ever noticed two small indentations on the lower back, just above the buttocks, you may have wondered what they signify. Known as “Venus dimples” in women and “Apollo dimples” in men, these little marks have fascinated people for centuries. Some view them as a symbol of beauty and health, while others believe they’re linked to genetics or good fortune. But why do only certain people have them? Let’s break down the science and the myths.
The Role of Anatomy
Back dimples form where the skin attaches to deeper structures through a short ligament. They sit directly over the sacroiliac joints—the point where the spine connects with the pelvis. Unlike toned muscles or body fat levels, these indentations are not something you can “train” to achieve. They are simply a result of anatomy and how the ligaments in your body are positioned. In short, whether you have them or not is largely determined before you’re even born.
Genetics and Inheritance
One of the main reasons some people have back dimples comes down to genetics. These indentations are often an inherited trait, which means if your parents have them, you’re more likely to as well. Scientists explain that skeletal alignment and ligament placement vary among individuals. For some, these variations naturally create visible dimples, while for others, the positioning prevents them from appearing.
Body Shape and Fat Distribution
While genetics matter most, body composition plays a role in how visible the dimples are. People with leaner builds or lower body fat tend to display them more clearly. On the other hand, someone may have the genetic predisposition but carry more fat in the lower back, making them less noticeable. This is why athletes, dancers, or people with lower body fat often seem to have more pronounced back dimples.
Health Myths vs. Reality
There are plenty of myths surrounding back dimples. Some claim they’re linked to better circulation, higher fertility, or even greater sexual pleasure. While these ideas may sound intriguing, there’s little scientific evidence to prove them. What is clear, however, is that back dimples do not pose any health risks. They are simply a harmless anatomical trait that varies from one person to another.
A Symbol of Beauty Across History
Throughout history, these dimples have been admired as symbols of beauty. During the Renaissance, artists often highlighted them in paintings and sculptures to emphasize feminine curves. Today, they’re still considered attractive because they naturally draw attention to the shape of the lower back and hips. Their rarity adds to their allure, making them stand out even more.
Can You Create Them?
Because of their popularity, many people wonder if exercise can create back dimples. Unfortunately, the answer is no. Since they’re formed by ligament placement, no amount of workouts will generate them if your anatomy doesn’t allow it. That said, lowering body fat and strengthening the core may make existing dimples more noticeable.
Conclusion
Back dimples are a unique feature mostly shaped by genetics and anatomy, not lifestyle or workouts. While they don’t offer proven health benefits, they’ve long been admired as a symbol of beauty and individuality. If you have them, it’s simply a reflection of your natural body structure. And if you don’t, it doesn’t mean anything is wrong—your uniqueness just shows up in different ways.
