Face Yoga and Facial Exercise: Does It Actually Work?

July 13, 2026

Face yoga and facial exercises are all over social media, promising firmer, younger-looking skin with nothing but your fingers. Encouragingly, this is one trend that has been put to a real test.

What the research found

A study in JAMA Dermatology followed people through a structured 20-week facial exercise programme and reported a modest improvement in the appearance of certain areas of the face, with a slightly younger estimated age by the end (Alam et al., 2018, PMID 29299598). It was a small study, so the findings are promising rather than definitive.

What this means in practice

Facial exercise may offer subtle benefits for some people, and it is free and low risk. It is not a replacement for the well-evidenced skincare levers, and it takes consistent effort over months to see anything.

The reliable levers

Daily broad spectrum sunscreen to protect the collagen you have.
Well-studied actives like vitamin A (retinoids) and vitamin C.
A comfortable moisturiser to keep skin hydrated and supported.

At Verdo we stock the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6, Medik8 C-Tetra vitamin C, and Medik8 Total Moisture.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. The studies cited are from peer-reviewed journals and are provided for educational context. Individual results vary. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist before changing your routine. Verdo Cosmetics makes no therapeutic claims about the products or services mentioned.

Frequently asked questions

Does face yoga actually work?

A 20-week facial exercise study reported a modest improvement in the appearance of some facial areas, with a slightly younger estimated age (Alam et al., 2018). It was a small study, so results are promising rather than proven, and it needs consistent effort over months.

Is facial exercise better than skincare?

No. Facial exercise may offer subtle benefits, but it does not replace the well-evidenced levers: daily sunscreen, retinoids, vitamin C and hydration. Think of it as a low-risk extra.

How long does face yoga take to work?

The study that showed an effect ran for 20 weeks of regular practice. Any benefit is gradual and depends on consistency, not a quick fix.

Can face exercises cause wrinkles?

It is not well established. Some worry that repeated facial movement could contribute to expression lines over time, so keep movements gentle and let the evidence-based basics do the heavy lifting.

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