Facial exercises for a firmer, more relaxed face

Want firmer cheeks, a calmer jawline, or fewer forehead lines without needles or surgery? Facial exercises are quick movements you can do at home to target the muscles under the skin. Done the right way, they improve tone, boost circulation, and help your skin look fresher.

How these exercises work and what to expect

Every time you move a facial muscle you increase blood flow and stimulate the tissue beneath the skin. That can make skin look healthier and, over weeks, may improve firmness. Results don’t happen overnight — expect subtle changes after 4–8 weeks if you practice regularly. Keep sessions short and consistent: 5–10 minutes a day beats one long session a week.

Be realistic. Exercises help muscle tone and circulation but won’t erase deep wrinkles or change bone structure. If you have recent facial surgery, active skin infections, or severe TMJ pain, check with a doctor before starting.

Quick 5-minute daily routine (do this every day)

Try this simple sequence you can do standing or sitting. Move slowly and breathe naturally. Aim for 10–15 repetitions of each move, twice a day if you can.

1. Cheek lift: Smile with closed lips, place fingertips lightly on the top of the cheekbones, and lift the cheeks upward. Hold 3 seconds, relax.
2. Jaw release: Simulate chewing with your mouth closed then open wide and press your tongue to the roof of your mouth. Hold 3–5 seconds, relax.
3. Fish face: Suck in your cheeks and lips like a fish, hold 5 seconds, release. This targets the cheek hollows and mouth corners.
4. Forehead smoother: Place palms on the forehead and gently press while trying to raise the eyebrows. Hold 3 seconds, relax. This trains frontalis control to reduce frown lines.
5. Neck firming: Tilt your head back slightly, press your tongue to the roof of your mouth and swallow. Repeat 10 times to work the platysma (neck muscle).

Add light facial massage after the routine to drain fluid and relax muscles. Use upward strokes and gentle pressure. A few drops of oil or moisturizer will help your fingers glide smoothly.

Small tips: stay hydrated, sleep on your back when possible, and keep good posture — they help your face look better faster. Combine exercises with sunscreen and a basic skincare routine for best results.

If you feel pain, especially in the jaw or temples, stop and rest. Swap exercises for gentler moves or see a professional. Stick with short daily practice, track progress with photos every two weeks, and tweak moves that feel best for your face.