Are Facial Exercises Effective?

Are facial exercises making a comeback?

One of Hollywood’s old trends was facial exercises or yoga. It still remains an ongoing activity for some. There is a divisive view among physicians regarding facial exercises. Many say they are in favor of recommending facial exercises to their patients. While others are skeptical about this as it does not improve the appearance of wrinkles and stretches the skin further.

A recent study in JAMA Dermatology finds that facial exercises are effective for the sample size. Those who participated in the study are women in their 40s to 60s. The types of exercises were not disclosed. The sample underwent a daily exercise or alternate day exercise spanning 20 weeks. The exercise regimen was effective for those who underwent the study, and it is recommended by the researchers to achieve mid and lower face fullness.

In comparison to a previous study detailed by Van Borsel at al., 2014, it seems their compiled studies supplement the argument for facial exercises, as the results of the aggregated studies showed improvements in the different studies they examined. In their research, it was observed that reduced wrinkle lines and facial symmetry were the common outcomes in the aside from that, patient satisfaction was also met in the studies.

According to D’Souza et al. who conducted a similar study also published in 2014 elaborated further on the exercises done by the participants. The researchers concluded that doing facial exercises would improve muscle function and liven up and give color the face. They also add that it does not reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Will facial exercises eventually replace Botox and dermal fillers?

It is highly unlikely.

Botox and dermal fillers are still one of the best ways to rejuvenate the face in the long run. Facial exercises could be considered as an alternative for those afraid of going under the knife or the needle. It could be considered as a measure to combat anti-aging or to improve muscle function only.

Facial exercises are effective, but as the go-to facial rejuvenation for older women, it is best that your patients are made aware of its effects and which facial exercises they can do to optimize facial improvement. It is up to you, as their physician, to advise them on what exercises they can do while they are undergoing Botox or dermal filler treatment.