The thought of a surgical face lift might make you frown, However, you can attain firmer, more toned facial features by using simple Pilates facial exercises. Since the Pilates method uses resistance to improve the tone and strength of core muscles, you can use this method to target the muscles of the face and throat for a more youthful appearance.
Eyes and Forehead
The eye area, which is often the first area to lose firmness, can be tightened through the regular use of Pilates-type facial exercises. Start by lifting your eyebrows as far as you can. Now, close your eyes, pulling your eyebrows down as far as you can. Hold for 10 seconds. Next, with your eyes still closed, place your thumbs on the outer corners of your eyes while your other fingers are resting on your head and pointing down. Gently pull the outer corners of your eyes toward your temples and repeat 10 times.
To help minimize forehead wrinkles, lie on your back and look at the ceiling. Open your eyes as wide as you can while concentrating on lifting your eyebrows. Hold for a second or two and repeat 10 times.
Lips and Mouth
To tone the mouth area, fill both cheeks with air and "swish" the air from cheek to cheek. Repeat several times. To tighten the obicularis oris, the muscle surrounding the mouth, put one finger inside each side of your mouth and pull outward. Alternately try to make an "O" shape with your mouth then relax. You will feel the tightening around your fingers. Start with two sets of 25, and then work up to two sets of 50.
Chin and Neck
If your neck is beginning to resemble a turkey's, these exercises should help tone the muscles in the area. Begin by lying on your back on the edge of a bed. Let your head hang over the edge. Slowly lift your head in line with your body and hold for 10 seconds. Relax and lower your head. Repeat four times.
Another area that can get loose and lax is just under your chin. To firm this area, tilt your head back to look at the ceiling while sitting in a chair. Stick your tongue out toward the ceiling and hold for a count of 10 and repeat four times. This exercise can also tone your jawline.
Cheeks
Deborah Crowley, author of "Flex Effect Facial Resistance Training," recommends placing your three middle fingers on your cheekbones and pulling downward while opening your mouth into a wide smile. Hold for a count of six and repeat 10 times. This exercise creates resistance on the facial muscles and helps tone the cheekbone area as well as the neck and mouth.
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