Facial Exercises for Tightening the Upper Lip Area

Facial Exercises for Tightening the Upper Lip Area
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As you age, you may develop vertical lines on and above the upper lip. These lines are far more common in women, as men have mustache hair follicles that support the upper-lip area. Other than aging, the appearance of these annoying creases can be worsened by smoking and over-exposure to the sun. Fortunately, there are a number of exercises you can perform to diminish the appearance of lines in the upper-lip area.

Upper Lip Line Eraser

The upper lip line eraser exercise works the Orbicularis oris muscle which circles the entire mouth. Position the inside of one of your index fingers just below your bottom lip, and the other directly above your top lip. Move both fingers rapidly from side to side in opposite directions. Continue until you feel a tingling sensation, then swap fingers and repeat. This exercise can be performed as often as you desire.

Upper Lip Smoothie

If you are in the habit of puckering your top lip when you eat or talk, the upper lip smoothie exercise may help to create the appearance of a smoother upper lip. Place your index fingers on the corners of your mouth as anchors. Draw the upper lip down so the creases disappear and the area is entirely smooth. Hold while counting to five, and release. Repeat three more times, each time holding for a count of 10.

Facial Yoga

Annelise Hagan, a yoga instructor from new York, recommends facial yoga exercises to keep muscles firm and reduce the effects of aging. Hagan recommends an exercise she calls "Marilyn" to keep the lips strong. While keeping your brow uncreased, blow kisses around four times. Then press your first two fingers against your lips four times.

References

Article reviewed by Leslie Darling Last updated on: Mar 19, 2012

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