Let’s be honest, most of us are always on the lookout for something that’ll keep us looking fresh and youthful, without going under the knife or spending a fortune on fancy creams.
Enter: facial exercises. They’re free, take just a few minutes a day, and best of all, they actually work when done consistently.
Your face has muscles too, just like the rest of your body. And just like squats tighten your glutes, facial exercises help tone the muscles under your skin, giving you that natural lift and glow we all want as we age. No needles. No drama. Just you, your hands, and a mirror.
Here are five simple facial exercises that you can start doing today to keep those fine lines, sagging skin, and dullness at bay.
The cheek lifter
Targets: Sagging cheeks, nasolabial folds (those smile lines)
This one’s like a mini facelift you can do in your bathroom.
How to do it:
Open your mouth to form an “O.”
Fold your upper lip over your teeth.
Smile using the corners of your mouth.
Place your fingers lightly on your cheeks and lift them gently.
Hold for 10 seconds, release, and repeat 10–15 times.
Why it works: This move lifts and strengthens the muscles in your cheeks, helping you maintain that full, youthful face instead of the hollowed-out look that often comes with age.
The forehead smoother
Targets: Forehead lines, frown lines
Tired of those stubborn lines between your brows or across your forehead? This one’s for you.
How to do it:
Place both palms firmly on your forehead, with fingers spread out.
Gently pull the skin outward (towards your temples).
At the same time, try to raise your eyebrows against the resistance.
Hold for 5 seconds, then relax.
Do this 10 times.
Why it works: This helps relax the forehead muscles and retrains them not to scrunch up with every thought or emotion – hello, smoother forehead!
The jawline shaper
Targets: Double chin, sagging jawline
If your jawline isn’t as sharp as it used to be, this one can help define and tighten the area.
How to do it:
Tilt your head back and look up at the ceiling.
Push your lower jaw forward slightly and feel the stretch under your chin.
Hold for 10 seconds.
You can also “kiss the ceiling” by puckering your lips upward.
Do this 10–12 times.
Why it works: This exercise tightens the muscles around your jaw and neck, which helps reduce puffiness and improve the appearance of a double chin.
Eye firmer
Targets: Crow’s feet, puffiness, saggy lids
Our eyes are the first place to show tiredness or ageing. This one wakes them up.
How to do it:
Place your index fingers on the outer corners of your eyes.
Gently pull the skin outwards while squinting your eyes like you’re trying to look at something far away.
Hold for 5 seconds, relax, and repeat 10–15 times.
Bonus: You can also lightly tap around your eyes with your fingertips in a circular motion to improve circulation and reduce puffiness.
Why it works: Strengthening the muscles around your eyes helps keep the skin tight and lifted, reducing droopy lids and fine lines.
The neck firmer
Targets: Sagging neck, “tech neck,” fine lines
No one wants the dreaded “turkey neck,” but unfortunately, it shows up before we expect it. This move helps keep things tight and toned.
How to do it:
Sit or stand up straight.
Tilt your head back and look up.
Press your tongue to the roof of your mouth.
You’ll feel the muscles in your neck engage.
Hold for 10 seconds, then release.
Repeat 10–12 times.
Why it works: This strengthens and tones the front neck muscles, reducing sagging and promoting a longer, smoother neckline.
A few tips before you start
Be consistent: Like any workout, facial exercises take time. Do them daily (or at least 4–5 times a week) for best results.
Do them clean: Always start with a clean face and washed hands to avoid breakouts.
Be gentle: Your facial skin is delicate. These moves should feel like a gentle massage, not a tug-of-war.
Hydrate afterward: Moisturize your skin post-exercise to lock in hydration and boost elasticity.
Pair with lifestyle: Don’t forget to drink water, wear SPF, and sleep well, your skin will thank you.
Your future face will thank you for it
Facial exercises aren’t a magic potion, but they’re a solid, natural way to support your skin as it ages. They tone the muscles, improve circulation, and help you stay connected with your face in a way that’s oddly calming too. Think of them as yoga for your face – low effort, high reward.
You don’t need expensive tools or salon appointments to age gracefully. Just a few minutes, some mindful movements, and a little self-love. Your future face will thank you for it.
