No, smiling does not make your face look younger. In fact, the opposite may be true.
The Impact of Smiling on Perceived Age
While many people believe smiling makes them appear younger, research suggests otherwise. The wrinkles that form around your eyes when you smile can actually lead others to perceive you as older. This is according to a study mentioned on January 3, 2023, which found that these smile-induced wrinkles are associated with an older age perception.
Key Findings:
- Wrinkles Around the Eyes: These lines, often referred to as "crow's feet," become more pronounced when smiling.
- Perceived Age Increase: Studies show that these wrinkles can cause viewers to rate someone as older compared to when their face is in a neutral expression.
Why We Might Think Smiling Makes Us Look Younger
The perception that smiling makes us look younger might stem from the positive emotions associated with a smile. Smiling can make someone appear more approachable, friendly, and happy. These positive associations might lead us to subconsciously perceive someone as younger due to their perceived vitality. However, this is separate from the actual effect of the physical features caused by smiling.
Factors Influencing Perceived Age
- Facial Expressions: Both smiling and non-smiling expressions contribute to the perception of age.
- Skin Condition: Factors like skin elasticity, pigmentation, and the presence of wrinkles are key.
- Facial Structure: The structure of your bone and soft tissue contribute to perceived age.
- Overall Health and Lifestyle: Lifestyle factors, such as diet and sleep, and overall health can affect the appearance of youthfulness.
Practical Insight
While smiling may not directly make you look younger, it has many benefits and should not be avoided for the sake of trying to look younger.
- Positive Mental Health: Smiling can improve mood and promote a sense of well-being.
- Social Interactions: It helps in establishing connections with other people.
| Feature | Impact on Perceived Age |
|---|---|
| Smiling | May increase perceived age |
| Neutral Expression | May decrease perceived age |
| Wrinkles around eyes | May increase perceived age |
