Face exercises, also known as facial workouts or facial toning, are a trend that aims to improve the appearance of the face through targeted facial muscle exercises. While some research has shown that facial exercises may modestly improve facial appearance, other studies have found little evidence to support their effectiveness.
Face Exercises Are Popular
Face exercises are often marketed as an alternative to invasive or expensive cosmetic procedures and are believed to work by strengthening the muscles in the face to improve sagging or lost definition. It is believed that as people age, the skin loses elasticity due to a decrease in collagen, leading to a loss of definition in the face. By strengthening the muscles in the face, it is thought that some sagging areas can be made to remain firmer. It is important to note that not all facial exercises are the same, and certain repetitive motions, like frowning or scowling, may actually cause damage to facial tissue.
Facial Moisturizers Improve the Skin
While there is limited evidence supporting the use of face exercises, regular use of a facial moisturizer with SPF has been shown to improve the appearance of the skin. People who are interested in trying facial exercises are recommended to perform particular moves daily for two months.
Upper Eye Face Exercise Place the three middle fingers of each hand directly under the eyebrows. Drop the palms of the hands flat against the face. With the pads of the fingertips directly under the eyebrows, push the eyebrows upwards and slightly outwards. Hold the eyebrows in this position with the eyes open. Use facial muscles to lower the eyebrows while continuing to press up with the fingertips; hold the contraction for five seconds. Relax and repeat. Make sure all breathing is done through the nose.
Jaw Line Face Exercise Sit or stand with the shoulders erect. Lift the chin to form a taut line between the chin and neck. Place the index and middle fingers on either side of the mouth and stretch them outwards. At the same time, push the jawline forward and hold the contraction for 10 seconds. Relax and repeat.
Nose-to-Mouth Lines Face Exercise
Place the index and middle fingers on either side of the nose. Keeping the fingers in place, smile as wide as possible. Hold the contraction for 10 seconds. Relax and repeat.
Under-Neck Flab Face Exercise Sit or stand with the shoulders erect. Tilt back the head to look at the ceiling. Pucker the lips as if to kiss the ceiling. Hold the contraction for 10 seconds. Relax and repeat.
Face Moisturizer with SPF Unlike facial exercises, there is definitive evidence that regular application of facial moisturizer with SPF will improve the appearance of the skin. It is recommended to apply a facial moisturizer with SPF daily to protect the skin from sun damage and to keep it looking firm and youthful.