Face yoga involves massage and exercises that stimulate the muscles, skin, and lymphatic system. It may help strengthen and relax your facial muscles to alleviate tension, stress, and worry.
Face yoga may be an effective remedy for
A balanced face yoga routine includes exercises and massage, relaxation, and acupressure techniques, according to Danielle Collins, the founder of Danielle Collins’ Face Yoga.
Although several reported benefits of face yoga exist, it’s important to note that limited research supports these claims. The results of the existing research are mixed, too.
Keep reading to learn more about the possible benefits of face yoga and 7 exercises to get you started.
Face yoga may be an effective remedy for
Collins explained that the different aspects of face yoga may contribute to healthy, glowing skin in various ways.
“Face yoga helps to lift and firm the muscles under the skin, which smooths lines and wrinkles. Massage helps to boost circulation, improve lymphatic drainage, and release tension. Acupressure techniques boost circulation and relieve stress, which can aid in preventing headaches, releasing sinuses, and enhancing the quality of your sleep.”
The benefits of face yoga may also be more than skin-deep. A
Despite these findings, however, limited research has examined the effects of face yoga, and the results are mixed.
The author of a 2021 review of 11 studies concluded that more large-scale studies are needed to understand the benefits of face exercises for facial rejuvenation.
Similarly, the authors of a
Several face yoga practitioners suggest it may also help:
- control face muscles
- promote proper nostril breathing
- reduce teeth grinding
- reprogram muscle memory
- improve symptoms of
temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders - improve face symmetry
- reduce sagging and dark circles under the eyes
However, more research is needed to confirm these claims.
Slower types of yoga, such as Hatha, Yin, and restorative yoga, involve holding poses (asana) for extended periods. This may help you become more aware of your facial muscles and breathing, which
Certain types of movement may also benefit your facial glow.
Noting the benefits of traditional ways of sitting during yoga, Collins said: “Forward folds bring fresh blood and oxygen to the skin, which promotes a healthy glow. Backbending poses tone and firm the front neck muscles, while twists firm the side of the face and release neck tension.”
Consider working on bringing awareness to your face during traditional yoga poses. Observe if you’re holding onto any tension or making facial expressions. Notice if you’re concentrating on relaxing your face so intently that you end up furrowing your brow or lifting your eyebrows.
Collins said that depending on your concerns and goals, you can use face yoga to target any area of your face.
For instance, you may be able to create a routine to target a specific area in your face, such as frown lines, forehead lines, or crow’s feet. Or, you can focus on relieving stress and anxiety.
However, Collins recommended focusing on your overall well-being.
“It’s important to sleep well, reduce stress, and eat healthily. Holistic health and self-care are key to radiant skin since taking care of yourself inside will be reflected in your outer shine,” she said.
Here are 7 face yoga exercises to try. For each exercise, work to your comfort level. You may feel warmth or heat, but you shouldn’t experience pain or discomfort.
Remember to always start with clean hands and a clean face. You can also use an oil, serum, or cleansing balm to help your fingers glide easily over your skin without it being too slippery.
1. Tension relief
Stimulating this acupressure point may help reduce eyestrain. You can use it to calm down during the day or before you fall asleep.
- Press into the inner corner of your eyes for 30 seconds.
- Then circle gently in one direction for 30 seconds.
- Repeat in the opposite direction.
2. Eye circles
This exercise may boost oxygen circulation and alleviate puffiness. Use light, featherweight touches.
- Place your ring fingers at the inside of your eyebrows.
- Gently tap your fingers toward the outside of your eyebrows.
- Press into your temples for a few seconds.
- Continue to tap above your cheekbones to the inner corner of your eyes.
- Continue for 30 seconds.
3. Brow smoother
This exercise might relax the frontalis muscle, the large muscle at the front of your forehead. Often, this muscle is overused, which may lead to stiffness, rigidity, and stress expressions.
- Place your fingertips at the center of your forehead, facing inwards.
- Gently press your fingertips into your forehead as you move your fingers toward your temples.
- Release your fingers.
- Continue for 30 seconds.
4. Neck massage
A neck massage may boost lymphatic drainage and alleviate neck tension. It might also help tighten sagging skin around your jaw and neck.
- Tilt your head back slightly.
- Place your fingers at the top of your neck.
- Apply gentle pressure as you glide your fingers down to your collarbone.
- Press into your collarbone for a few seconds before releasing your fingers.
- Continue for 30 seconds.
5. Jaw unlocker
This exercise may help engage the muscles in your jaw and neck.
- While seated, make a fist with your left hand and place it on the outside of your jaw with your thumb facing down.
- Turn your head toward your fist, feeling a stretch on the side of your neck.
- Don’t allow your hand to move.
- Then press your jaw toward your hand for a few seconds.
- Gently release.
- Repeat on the opposite side.
6. Lion’s breath
Also known as Lion’s Pose, this is a yogic breathing exercise that may help reduce stress and relax facial muscles.
- From a seated position, lean forward to brace your hands on your knees or the floor.
- Inhale deeply through your nose.
- Open your mouth wide, stick out your tongue, and stretch your tongue toward your chin.
- Forcibly exhale your breath across the base of your tongue while making a “ha” sound.
- Relax and breathe normally.
- Repeat up to 7 times.
- Breathe deeply for 1 to 3 minutes.
7. Face tapping
Tapping may help promote relaxation and boost circulation.
- Start at your forehead and use your fingertips to rhythmically tap your skin.
- Continue all along your face toward your jaw.
- Next, tap the front of your neck and across your shoulders.
- Then move up along the back of your neck to your head.
- Finally, rub your palms together to generate heat.
- Cup your hands over your face and breathe deeply for several breaths.
Does yoga for the face really work?
A 2021 review found that facial exercises may help improve the strength and appearance of your face. That said, the author notes the current research is limited and more studies are needed to support face yoga’s benefits.
Does face yoga work double chin?
No research has examined the direct effects of face yoga on double chin. Limited studies have found that facial exercises may help overall facial appearance and strength, but more research is needed.
Learn more: What exercises help manage double chin?
Does face yoga tighten skin?
No research has examined the direct effects of face yoga for tightening skin. However, a
Face yoga is a self-care technique that may lead to facial rejuvenation by softening, stretching, and strengthening your facial muscles.
According to Collins, face yoga may help you tune in to what you need by activating the healing power of your hands.
“I also recommend using positive affirmations as part of face yoga, which helps us to feel grateful for our faces and skin while cultivating self-love,” she said. “Engaging in this nourishing practice helps you to feel calmer and happier.”
For best results, try dedicating some time each day to face yoga. You can learn the technique from an instructor during online tutorials, individual sessions, workshops, or courses.