Venus dimples, also known as “dimples of Venus” or “back dimples,” are “small indentations found on the lower back just above the buttocks, near the waistline.” They have fascinated people for centuries and are often associated with beauty, though they are simply a natural physical feature.

These dimples appear as “symmetrical indentations on the lower back” where the pelvis and sacrum meet. From a scientific perspective, they mark “the location where the posterior superior iliac spine is closest to the skin surface.” Because of where they are positioned, they are usually visible only when the lower back is exposed, such as in a bathing suit or when someone leans forward slightly.

One of the main reasons Venus dimples form is anatomy. They are caused by “a short ligament or a natural indentation in the skin tethered to the underlying bone structure,” which creates the visible dips. Not everyone has this structure, which explains why some people have them and others do not.

Genetics also influence their appearance, as they are “often linked to a dominant genetic trait passed down through families.” In addition, body composition matters. “Low body fat and well-defined musculature can make these dimples more prominent or visible,” though weight or fitness alone does not determine whether someone has them.

Despite popular beliefs, Venus dimples have no medical importance. As clearly stated, “they have no health benefits nor adverse side effects.” They are purely cosmetic—simply a natural variation in human anatomy.