Anti-Aging Facial Exercises and What to Avoid

Your face and scalp consist of 10 muscle groups that are attached to the bone as well as your skin – unlike other parts of your body. This factor allows us to make millions of facial expressions, which over time can contribute to fine lines and wrinkles as we age.

However, the good news is you can work these muscles in your face to tighten and tone them to make your skin appear much firmer and youthful.

Reasons for Skin Ageing

Age-related skin alterations are primarily a result of genetically tuned changes (intrinsic factors) along with environmental wear-and-tear (extrinsic factors). However, the extrinsic factors seem to be the predominant reason in most cases.

It is estimated that 80-90% of the changes one observes on their skin are a result of exposure to daylight which is also known as photoaging. This subsequently leads to wrinkling formation, loss of skin elasticity, hyperpigmentation, and skin discoloration amongst other changes.

Other extrinsic factors that affect skin aging are:

• Sun exposure

• Lifestyle choices (e.g. Smoking)

• Protein & carbs lacking diet

• Vitamin C deficiency

• Lack of sleep

• Stress

Facial Yoga

Facial yoga is a great routine to sculpt the muscles of your face and neck by increasing blood circulation and releasing tension in your facial muscles. It is especially beneficial in preventing smile lines and also in toning the cheek muscles.

Start by standing straight but relaxed and inhaling deeply through your mouth. Trap the air in your mouth and extend your cheeks, as if you’re blowing into a trumpet. Hold for one minute and then slowly exhale via your nose. Repeat 5 times several times a day for best results.

Neck

The front of the neck holds a muscle called the platysma. As we age, this muscle and the skin overlying it become loose and begin to sag. Performing a neck exercise can help tone your platysma, giving you a tighter neck and jawline. Start by sitting or standing straight and turning your head so that you’re looking at the ceiling.

Keep still and press your tongue to your palate (the roof of your mouth). You should feel a slight strain in the muscles at the front of your neck. Keep pressing your palate with your tongue and bring your chin to your neck. You should feel the platysma and your chin muscles contracting.

Cheeks

Age can cause your cheek muscles to sag as well. To prevent this, stand in front of a mirror to ensure you perform this exercise right. Do your biggest smile with your lips closed and the corners of your mouths almost touching your ears. Allow your cheek muscles to move up by wrinkling your nose and hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times every day to tighten facial muscles.

Forehead

Starting to see signs of folds on your forehead already? Try doing this exercise. Place both of your index fighters right below the eyebrow, above each of your eyes. Lift your eyebrows as high as possible while pulling down the skin under it at the same time with your index fingers. Repeat 10 times every day to prevent lines on your forehead.

Jawline

Tilt your head back and make your tongue touch the roof of your mouth. You might feel a bit of a stretch in your neck, but don’t stop. Bring your neck back to its normal position once done. Do this 10 times for each set.

Anti-Aging Treatments That Are Rather Harmful

While anti-aging cosmetic treatments seem like a plausible and permanent solution, there are several reasons why you must not give in to the hype. These popular anti-aging treatments could potentially do more harm than good.

Botox

The popular wrinkle fixer may not be worth your money. Botox is a non-surgical procedure that offers the same benefits of cosmetic surgery. However, it doesn’t work the same way for everyone. Its usefulness depends on factors like skin type, thickness, and how advanced the wrinkle appearance is. Therefore, not everyone can benefit from the effects of this injection!

Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHA)

A popular skin anti-aging ingredient, AHAs are known to improve skin texture and diminish signs of skin aging. However, AHAs can also cause horrid skin irritation. They are extensively used in skin peels, and its usage can potentially increase the risk of flaking and redness. Also, AHAs should ideally be absorbed into the skin to increase their efficiency. This means face washes that claim AHA as an ingredient will not work because it gets washed away.

Micro-Needling

Micro-needling involves running a roller covered with small needles, all over your face. This treatment claims to be a switch on a repair mechanism in your skin, regenerates collagen, and minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. However, the risks involved in this procedure may outweigh its benefits.

One will always need to pay close attention to the sterility of the roller and needles being used. If the device isn’t cleaned thoroughly after every use, it could lead to skin infections and scarring.

Oxygen Mask Facial Treatment

Sure an Oxygen mask facial will leave your face plumper, however, there is very little scientific evidence that supports its long-term viability. An aestheticism applies pressurized oxygen, acid, and a customized serum to help you get that smooth, silky, and plump skin. However, the plumping effect can be extremely temporary and a possible result of inflammation.

Engaging in a routine that involves facial exercises will help tighten loose skin and give you a youthful look without having to go under the knife. The exercises discussed above are easy, will not take much time and can be done at any time of the day. Follow these face exercises and say hello to healthier, younger, and naturally beautiful looking skin.