The skin on the face is exposed to a wide range of potentially damaging materials ranging from dirt and pollution to ultraviolet sun rays and oily cosmetics. Coupled with the aging process that depletes collagen production and adds years of gravitational pull, the face often shows the first signs of lax muscles that result in sagging jaw lines and loose pockets of skin. Various facial exercises can relieve some of the results, while others may actually contribute to wrinkles and unwanted lines.
Types
Facial exercises can include light facial massages usually included in a full body massage designed to relieve tension and spur blood circulation. People who want to maintain a taut underlying base perform exercises that place varying degrees of tension on supporting facial muscles. Therapeutic face exercises are designed to increase movement in damaged muscles and increase facial mobility.
Features
The face undergoes continuous movement throughout the day and even when sleeping. According to the Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery, facial muscles that hold tension and stress reduce the amount of blood flow and circulation to the face, inhibiting new cell formation. Massage features strokes that help move lymphatic fluids through the muscles and increase circulation.
Considerations
Facial exercises performed for a few minutes a couple times a week can significantly tighten the underlying muscles in your face when done correctly, according to Shape Your Face, a site dedicated to an in-depth study of facial muscles and how various exercises work the underlying support system. Unlike muscles that are attached to bones in the rest of the body, facial muscles are connected directly to the skin on your face. As part of a regular face-care routine, you must properly care for your skin by wearing sunscreen and gently cleansing it daily to reduce the free radicals. Exercises alone cannot make up for unhealthy skin care practices.
Effects
Compare the results of your exercises to each area on your face to make sure you are maintaining a symmetrical appearance. Exercises should be evenly performed to build total support, according to Shape Your Face. The primary areas that should show the effects of your regular exercises include muscles around the eyes, mouth, jaw line, front of the neck and chin.
Warning
Continuous facial movements that place your skin in a certain position, when performed regularly, actually can create wrinkles and lines in the face. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, repeating facial exercises too often creates grooves underneath the skin. As skin becomes looser with age, it does not spring back as easily, resulting in wrinkles. When comparing facial exercises, watch your face in the mirror to see the results of the exercises to make sure you are doing only those movements that do not create lines on your face.
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