Helpful or hype? Here’s what experts say about the effects of face yoga
Social media swears by it, but can a cheek workout really do anything long-term to benefit you?
Face yoga is trending hard. You’ve probably seen it on TikTok or Instagram: people contorting their faces into exaggerated poses like “duckface” or “lion’s breath” in the name of natural beauty. Influencers call it a “natural facelift” – a product-free, cost-free way to tone, lift, and de-puff your face. But does it actually work?
Will face yoga help me?
The technique relies on the idea that working your facial muscles like you would your biceps can restore volume and shape, especially in aging faces. Dr. Murad Alam, a dermatologist and professor at Northwestern, ran a small 2018 study where 16 participants did 30 minutes of face yoga daily for 20 weeks. As a result, he saw light cheek volume improvement, noticeable enough for a panel of dermatologists to agree - but not dramatic enough to replace Botox.
“The cheek muscles are some of the biggest in the face,” Alam told CNN, “so they respond the most.” But he also pointed out the limitations: a small sample size, no precise measurements, and no data on other aging markers like wrinkles or skin laxity.
That hasn’t stopped some professionals from recommending it. Dr. Anetta Reszko, a New York dermatologist, also speaking with CNN suggests face yoga for improving blood and lymphatic circulation, which could reduce morning puffiness. Other view it more as a mindfulness tool than a beauty fix, releasing tension stored in the forehead, jaw, or neck.
- How ChatGPT overuse could be putting your health at risk
- The health truth about drinking a glass of wine a day
So, should you get into it? Well, it’s not much of a risk to your health – unless you’re trying to outdo Jim Carrey in the stretching – and even if it does nothing else, you might just look a little less grumpy by habit.
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment