Facial Exercises for the Jaw Line


 by Jessica McCahon

There are 44 muscles in the face. As you age, they naturally lose strength and tone. One area that's particularly prone to sagging is the jaw line, although regular exercises can help build the jaw muscles and keep skin firm and lifted.

There are 44 muscles in the face. As you age, they naturally lose strength and tone. One area that's particularly prone to sagging is the jaw line, although regular exercises can help build the jaw muscles and keep skin firm and lifted. Perform facial exercises regularly and combine them with a healthy diet, exercise, good skin care, and sun protection routine.

Tongue Stretch

Facial exercises force the muscles to expand and contract. This helps force lymph from areas such as the jaw line, where it often accumulates and causes sagging, says the TargetWoman health and lifestyle website. This exercise is particularly good for flexing the jaw muscles. Sit up straight and slowly raise your chin so that you're looking at the ceiling. Keep your shoulders relaxed to avoid neck strain. Stick your tongue out and down, trying to get the tip to touch your chin. Hold this position for 10 seconds, then relax.

Lip Raise and Jaw Drop

This exercise works the chin and the muscles at the front of your neck, which help support the skin on the jaw line. While doing this exercise, you should feel the neck muscles and chin tighten, says the Shape Your Face website. Raise your lower lip past your top lip, which should make your chin tense and pucker. Hold in this position for a few seconds, then firmly drop your lower jaw, keeping the rest of your face and head still. This movement will cause your neck muscles to contract. Hold for a few seconds, relax and aim for at least two sets of 10 repetitions.

Jaw Stretch

It's just as important to stretch the jaw muscles as it is to strengthen them. This helps ensure tension is released and promotes good circulation. A good way to stretch the jaw muscles is to sit up straight with your lips closed and relaxed, says the Fitness Health Zone website. Gently tilt your head back so you're looking at the ceiling, then form an O-shape with your lips. This pulls the skin tight over your jaw bone. Hold for 20 seconds, relax and repeat one or two times.

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