Abstract: Facial appearance is particularly influenced by underlying muscles of facial expression because they are directly attached to the skin. Consequently, age associated changes in facial wrinkles and sags are not only due to loss of dermal elasticity, but also might reflect weakened facial muscles. In the present study, eight healthy, older females with some signs of facial laxity followed a mechanically aided facial exercise program based on progressive resistance for eight weeks. Muscle strength and skin tone were measured at baseline and during the treatment period. We found that biomechanical extensibility had decreased which was quite consistent with the primary perception of the panelist that their facial skin had become firmer and more elastic. The overall pattern of change also corresponded nicely to changes in the condition of their facial muscles as measured by the time they could hold a high resistance load or the number of repetitions within a fixed time frame.

The Journal of Geriatric Dermatology 1994;2(5):152-158
Copyright © 1994 by Health Management Publications, Ind.