Dominic Stone
Are you an aspiring actor who needs to learn how to move your cheek muscles for a role? Or maybe you just want to learn how to do it for fun. Whatever the reason, learning how to move your cheek muscles can be a great way to improve your facial expressions and communication skills. In this article, we will explore different techniques and exercises that can help you move your cheek muscles effectively and add some new skills to your arsenal.
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What You'll Learn
How to move cheek muscles on one side
Cheek exercises are a great way to strengthen the muscles in your face, which in turn will help give you a leaner look with more prominent bone structure. Cheek exercises are also one of the best ways to combat ageing and improve muscle strength.
To move the cheek muscles on one side, try the following exercises:
- Sit or stand in a comfortable position. Now, tilt your head upwards towards the ceiling. Tighten your lips and push them forward as if you are trying to kiss the ceiling. Hold for a few seconds, then release. Repeat this exercise a few times.
- Place your finger tips on either side of your face where your cheeks crease when you smile. Push up on your cheeks while smiling. You will feel some resistance from the muscles in your cheekbones. Hold for 30 seconds, then release. Repeat.
- Close your mouth and draw the insides of your cheeks as close to your teeth as possible, as if you are performing a tight-lipped smile. Place the fleshy part of your palms against your cheeks and press slightly inward. Hold while counting to six, and repeat 10 times.
- Sit in an erect position. Hold your shoulders back, and jut your chin slightly forward. Open your mouth and wrap your upper and lower lips over your teeth. Place your index finger on your chin. Now, open your mouth wider, while simultaneously looking up at the ceiling, and lift your lower eyelids in a squint. While holding this pose, raise your cheeks by making a smile with your upper lip. Use the index finger on your chin to create resistance. Hold this position for 30 seconds, then relax.
- For the 'Big O' exercise, open your mouth to form an elongated "O". You should feel resistance in your cheek muscles.
- For the 'X and O' exercise, relax your face and hold your head steady. Pronounce the letters X and O by making exaggerated facial movements with your lips, jaws, and cheeks. Repeat 10 times and relax.
Please note that there are also non-surgical options to help achieve a more symmetrical face, such as Botox injections.
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Moving both cheek muscles at the same time
Moving and exercising your cheek muscles is a great way to tone and strengthen them, helping to give some lift to your cheeks and potentially prevent wrinkles and sagging skin.
To move both cheek muscles at the same time, try the following:
- Sit or stand in a comfortable position.
- Fill one of your cheeks with air and move the air from one cheek to the other, holding it on each side for 5 seconds.
- Repeat this 10 times and then relax.
Another exercise to try is:
- Sit or stand in a comfortable place.
- Puff out your cheeks with air.
- Push the air from side to side.
This exercise can be done anywhere and at any time and is a great way to work your cheek muscles.
It is important to note that these exercises may cause your cheek and facial muscles to feel tight or sore. Therefore, it is recommended to stretch the muscles you contracted by opening your eyes and mouth as wide as possible and holding for 30 seconds.
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The best time to practice cheek muscle movement
Cheek muscle movement exercises can be practised at any time and anywhere. Whether you are driving, taking a break from work, or watching TV, you can perform these exercises. However, to get the best results, it is recommended that you perform facial exercises 6-7 times a week.
If you are looking to make cheek muscle movement exercises a part of your daily routine, you can try doing them at a set time each day. For example, you could try doing them first thing in the morning as you get ready for your day, or in the evening as you wind down.
Additionally, you may find that practising at a time when you are less likely to be disturbed or distracted is beneficial. This could be early in the morning before most people are awake, during your lunch break, or in the evening after your children have gone to bed.
Ultimately, the best time to practise cheek muscle movement is whenever it fits into your schedule and when you can be consistent. Consistency is key to seeing results, so finding a time that works for you and sticking to it is more important than the specific time of day.
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Common mistakes to avoid when moving cheek muscles
The human face is made up of almost 20 flat skeletal muscles that attach to different places on the skull. These craniofacial muscles are essential for chewing and making facial expressions. However, when it comes to moving these cheek muscles, there are some common mistakes that people make which can lead to discomfort or even injury. Here are some key points to keep in mind to avoid such issues:
Understanding Cheek Muscle Anatomy: The buccinator muscle, located in the cheek, is responsible for holding each cheek toward the teeth. Attempting certain movements without understanding the functions of specific muscles can lead to discomfort or a strained muscle. Knowing the location and function of the buccinator, as well as other muscles in the area, such as the lateral pterygoid and masseter, is essential for safe and effective movement.
Awareness of Facial Nerve: It is important to be mindful of the facial nerve, which controls the facial muscles. Damage to this nerve can result from facial trauma, such as a blow to the head, or from certain medical conditions. Bell's palsy, for example, is a condition where swelling puts pressure on the facial nerve, leading to facial weakness or paralysis. Being aware of the facial nerve and any potential issues helps in seeking timely medical attention.
Managing Stress and Fatigue: Small spasms or twitches in the cheek muscles are often caused by stress, sleep deprivation, or excessive excitement. While these twitches are usually temporary, persistent or intensifying twitches could indicate a more serious condition, such as hemifacial spasm. Adequate rest and relaxation techniques can help manage stress and fatigue, reducing the occurrence of such spasms.
Seek Professional Guidance: Attempting complex or unfamiliar facial muscle movements without proper guidance can be risky. Consult a healthcare professional or a specialist in facial anatomy, such as a doctor or a physical therapist, for advice on safe practices. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and help you avoid potential pitfalls.
Gradual Progression: As with any muscle group, gradual progression is key to avoiding injury. Start with simple movements and gradually increase the intensity and complexity of your facial exercises. This gives your cheek muscles time to adapt and reduces the risk of strain or spasm.
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Advanced cheek muscle movements
The human face has 20 main facial muscles, also known as craniofacial muscles, which are essential for chewing and making facial expressions. Here are some advanced exercises to target and strengthen the muscles in your cheeks:
Cheek Curl
- Smile as wide as you can, then open your mouth slightly and flare your nostrils.
- Wrinkle up your nose as far as possible, then slowly draw your upper lip as high as you can, and hold for 10 seconds.
- Leave your mouth slightly open, and place one finger under the eye on the cheekbone.
- Curl your upper lip slowly upward, keeping finger pressure on your face.
Mouth Formations
- Open your mouth, then purse your lips together so that your teeth are separated and not showing.
- Say “OO,” using an exaggerated movement to purse your lips together.
- Change sounds to “EE,” again using an exaggerated motion to stretch your lips into the proper shape.
- Do 10 reps between “OO” and “EE,” then repeat for 3 sets.
Lip Suck
- Put your finger in your mouth and suck on it as hard as possible.
- While doing that, slowly remove your finger from your mouth, keeping your lips in the same position.
Head Tilt
- Tilt your head side to side to stretch and strengthen the sides of your neck.
- Start with your head facing forward, then slowly turn your head to one side, feeling the stretch in your neck.
- Hold the position for 60 seconds, then turn to the other side.
- Use your hand to feel along the side of your neck. In the correct position, you’ll feel the taut tension of your neck muscles being stretched during this exercise.
Mouth and Fist
- With your head facing straight forward, put your hand into a fist and slide it directly underneath your chin.
- Open your mouth fully, pushing down on your fist, then close your mouth.
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