Natural Facelift
Many people are giving face yoga a try for the first time after seeing it on social media. This natural alternative to Botox and premium facials could save people a substantial amount of money. But is it effective or just hype?
What Is Face Yoga?
Face yoga is simply a workout for the face and neck. It consists of gentle stretches and strokes that target the facial and neck muscles to increase circulation and fight aging. More and more people are sharing their results on TikTok, leading to the birth of a new skincare trend that might replace costly spa sessions.
Is There Science Behind Face Yoga?
From a scientific standpoint, face yoga is closer to facial exercises than authentic yoga. Yoga practitioners would likely argue that while this ancient practice has countless types — such as hatha, vinyasa, kundalini or ashtanga — face yoga isn't one of them.
Skeptics believe the term "face yoga" could have been coined to capitalize on yoga's popularity in the West. One reason for this conclusion is that many who demonstrate the massage steps and recommend it online don't have any medical background.
Face yoga's popularity in the United States is garnering attention partly because of the high cost of conventional skin care treatments. In 2022, people spent an average of $536 per visit for nonsurgical aesthetic spa treatments, which doesn’t exactly fit every budget.
The skincare industry is booming and is expected to be worth $145 billion by 2028. Because of the high demand, a free alternative to facials, Botox and lasers is most welcome.
Is It Effective?
There's scant scientific evidence to prove the effects of face yoga. However, thousands of people on TikTok have sworn by its natural facelift and rejuvenating properties. Many claim they have gotten rid of fine lines and wrinkles and noticed their faces feel firmer and younger.
While research on face yoga isn't well-documented, the opposite is true with facial exercises. Despite the different terms, both share the same concept, and the words are used interchangeably by some.
A review of eight studies revealed alternative therapies — like facial acupuncture and facial exercises — can improve wrinkles, fine lines and other signs of aging. They're less invasive, more affordable and have remarkably few side effects.
Most of the touted upsides of face yoga address signs of aging. Gentle massages may stimulate the lymphatic system, skin and muscles, boosting circulation in the area. You may notice firmer muscles under the skin, ironing out the lines, wrinkles and other imperfections. The idea is similar to doing resistance training at the gym to develop a leaner frame.
Beth Rush is the fitness editor at Body+Mind. She writes about how women with PCOS can hack their exercise routines to balance hormones naturally. She covers topics like plant-based recipes for athletes and preaching the benefits of green exercise. You can find Beth on Twitter @bodymindmag.