Dermatologists’ Perspectives on the Effectiveness of Facial Exercises
When it comes to the claims surrounding facial exercises, dermatologists have found limited evidence to support them. While it is true that certain facial muscles, such as the temporalis and masseter muscles, can be strengthened through activities like chewing and clenching (also known as “mewing”), this can potentially lead to jaw issues like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Additionally, not all individuals desire a more angular jawline, making this exercise technique less appealing.
Contrary to popular belief, facial exercises do not have the ability to slim the face or eliminate fine lines. Unlike muscles such as biceps that respond to overload and exhibit significant growth, facial muscles primarily involve moving the skin. This movement may temporarily increase blood flow, but the effects are not long-lasting or impactful enough to significantly affect one’s youthful appearance.
However, there is one notable benefit of facial exercises: they can help reduce the appearance of facial scarring. Individuals with thick scars may benefit from the stretching of the skin that occurs during face yoga exercises, as this can help to gradually thin out the scar over time.
Research Indicating the Benefits of Facial Exercises
While there is limited scientific evidence supporting the assertions made by influencers regarding facial exercises, a study conducted in 2018 did show some promising results. The study involved a group of middle-aged women who performed half an hour of facial exercises daily for a period of 20 weeks. The participants appeared slightly younger with increased fullness in their mid-face and lower-face areas. It is important to note, however, that the study had a small sample size of only 27 individuals, highlighting the need for further research in this area.