One often-seen distinction between a youthful and older face, is the lack of definition in the chin contour on an older face. Like other parts of the body, the muscles in the face become smaller and lose tone as part of the aging process, which causes the overlying skin to become saggy. Obesity can also alter the shape of the chin. A cosmetic surgeon may be able to help improve the definition of the chin, or you can perform facial exercises to strengthen the muscles.
Warm-Up
Before performing any kind of facial exercise, make your skin is well-hydrated and warm, according to Robert Wilkinson, author of the Bell’s Palsy guide book “All Bells and No Whistle.” Well-hydrated skin is more movable; so drink a glass of water before exercising, and splash your face with warm water. Additionally, a gentle massage will help to warm the skin. To massage the face, make small circular movements with the flat parts of your fingers.
The Neck and Chin Toner
The neck and chin toner exercise is recommended by Carole Maggio, producer of the Facercise program to firm the chin, neck and jawline. Sit in a tall and straight pose and hold your chin high. Close your mouth and smile forcefully, without showing your teeth. Place one hand over your collarbone at the base of your throat, then pull the neck skin downward with a firm grip. At the same time, look upward, in the direction of your scalp. Tilt your head back until you feel a strong pull on your neck and chin muscles, then return your head to a normal position. Repeat 35 times. The neck and chin toner should be performed twice daily for maximum benefits.
Double Chin Reducer
To reduce a double chin, sit or stand while looking straight ahead, and open your mouth slightly. Press your tongue as hard as possible against the roof of your mouth and hold for five seconds. Relax and repeat 10 times. According to Reinhold Benz, author of "Five Minute Face Lift" this will help to tighten the musculus mylohyoideus muscle, which is located where the chin meets the neck.
References
- National Institutes of Health: Aging Changes the Face
- All Bell's Palsy: Facial Exercise Warm Up
- "Carole Maggio Facercise"; Carole Maggio; 2002
- “Five Minute Face Lift”; Reinhold Benz; 1991



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