Do This With Your Lips To Reduce The Appearance Of Smile Lines
A smile goes a long way. Not only does it brighten the day of those around us, but 2023 research published in Health Psychology Review shows that donning those pearly whites may provide physiological benefits when we're in a state of stress as well as potentially lower our risk of illness in the long run.
A lifetime of smiling can eventually lead to permanent nasolabial folds, or smile lines, explains the Cleveland Clinic. Also referred to as laugh lines, these narrow grooves run from the sides of the nose down to the pointed creases of the mouth where our upper and lower lips meet. Smile lines may come and go during our younger years, only popping up in the midst of a hearty laughing fit. Dermatologist Dr. Leah Ansell told Prevention that smile lines fall under the category of dynamic wrinkles, or those influenced by our facial movements. However, aging, smoking, changes in weight, and skin damage from UV rays can eventually cause these lines to become lasting wrinkles. While there are cosmetic treatment options available for smile lines, a daily face workout may also help make laugh lines less noticeable. Here's how it works.
Do 10 to 25 reps of this facial stretch to reduce smile lines
To initiate the exercise, Cleveland Clinic experts say to begin by gently parting your lips. Next, place one finger on each of the corners of your mouth and push straight back towards the neck so the lips stay parallel. Maintaining this position, hold the skin in place for 10 seconds before releasing. Do 10 to 25 reps of this stretch.
While some social media influencers may sing the praises of anti-wrinkle face-lifting tape to achieve similar results, skin experts generally advise against it. "These are a great way to do nothing," double board-certified dermatologist Karan Lal told Prevention, stating that the tape would essentially need to be worn all day every day to be effective. Instead, complement your daily facial workout with other skin-protective measures, such as keeping skin clean and using moisturizer on a daily basis. Additionally, you'll want to refrain from smoking, prioritize exercise, and maintain a healthy diet. Finally, avoid tanning beds and always reapply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every two hours while outdoors to protect against sun damage.