Face yoga has gripped the skin care community, booming in popularity as influencers test out facial exercises to boost elasticity and promote a youthful visage.
The skin care exercise routine has come under fire after the trend was lambasted by critics, insisting that such a regimen simply did not work.
But, despite containing more than 40 muscles, it remains true that complexions are rarely treated to the targeted exercise that they need.
And a straightforward exercise has been dubbed the latest “anti-ageing secret” by a leading cosmetic expert based in Beverley Hills.
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“While many face yoga claims are overstated, there's one particular move that consistently shows promise for skin rejuvenation,” Dr Kevin Hayavi explained.
“When performed correctly, it can genuinely stimulate the biological processes that keep skin looking youthful.”
Brushing aside the countless face yoga moves that are promoted on various social media channels, Dr Hayavi selected a move that both boosts circulation which, in turn, supports skin health.
“The Cheek Lifter works because it targets the specific anatomical structures that contribute to facial ageing,” the expert explained.
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“When you engage the zygomatic muscles against resistance, you're essentially giving them a workout that improves their tone and strength.
“This creates a subtle lifting effect while the increased circulation delivers nutrients that support skin health.”
The exercises zeroes in on the area where the first signs of ageing start to appear: the cheeks and the lines running from the nose to the corners of the mouth.
Over time, strengthening of these muscles can create “a subtle lifting effect that mimics what dermal fillers achieve, but naturally”.
“The resistance is what makes this move effective,” Dr Hayavi instructed.
“Without your fingers providing counter-pressure, you're just making faces in the mirror. The controlled tension is what stimulates the muscle fibres and promotes circulation.”
Dr Hayavi said it was best to start with clean hands and face
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The Cheek Lifter’s step-by-step guide by Dr Hayavi
1. Start off with clean hands and face: Wash your hands thoroughly and ensure your face is clean, adding a light moisturiser on top if you so wish.
2. Find the correct position: Relax your shoulders and hold your head in a neutral position.
3. Create the base: Place index and middle fingers on the cheekbones, below the outer corners of your eyes. Gently apply downward pressure with your fingertips.
4. Engage the muscles: Try to lift your cheeks up against the resistance of your fingers. It should feel as if the muscles are working beneath your fingers.
5. Hold and release: Hold this position for 5-10 seconds, then relax the muscles.
6. Repeat: Perform this movement between 10 and 15 times, taking brief breaks if needed.