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Mimic muscles and their functions. Muscles of the face, their functions, anatomy of the structure of the face

Understanding the anatomy of how the muscles of the face are located is the direct key to eternal youth, smooth tightened skin. The whole body pervades muscular system. The outlines of a particular area are determined by its tone, current state. To ensure safety, elasticity, plasticity, to prevent thinning, it is necessary to be aware of how different muscle groups work, to be able to read the structure diagrams.

The value of facial anatomy for cosmetologists

innovative cosmetic procedures should not be implemented without basic ideas about human anatomy: its structure, characteristics of the integument of the epidermis.

This information helps the cosmetologist to build a correct program of work on age-related modifications of the epidermis and improve its condition. They are also necessary when choosing cosmetic effects, massage techniques.

The study of structural features, facial expressions, analysis according to methodological tables, diagrams are the basic information that a cosmetologist should be guided by. Without them, it is impossible to carry out any aesthetic procedure: neither Botox, nor injection therapy.


They are elongated beam-like branches with the thinnest muscular layer. They are located in the skin-connective head structures.

Unlike muscles located in other areas human body, facial ones do not have a double attachment to the bone skeleton. Instead, they are woven with one tip into the internal ligaments.

Exception from this rule makes up only a small muscle group located on the lateral surface of the face. Responsible for grinding food, it regulates the process of chewing. All facial muscles (except for the circular oral, nasal and supracranial) have a pair, differ in the depth of placement. So, they distinguish superficial, deep, medium.


The work of the deep muscles of the face is regulated by the central nervous system. The brain receives signals-calls about current processes, it reports them to the facial muscle groups. That is, they translate the information received into abbreviations, displaying certain facial movements on the human face.

Any muscle movement is always a detailed reflection of the transmitted nerve impulses.

Muscle contractions can be disturbed in traumatic and infectious diseases. Violations are congenital or acquired (in this case, permanent or temporary) in nature. One of the most significant pathologies is partial paralysis. It provokes an inability to correct muscle contraction, because of which a person has difficulty closing his eyes, jaw.

Platyma: what is it, where is it


Platyma is the thinnest superficial layer of the cervical muscles, responsible for its aesthetics, general appearance. Located in the deep layers of the skin, it fuses tightly with it.

Although the platysmal tissue is not involved in the motor activity carried out by the neck and head, it is activated during tense exercise. This determines its role in facial expressions.

Platyma has a number of significant differences from other facial muscle groups. It is more susceptible to modifications, quickly loses plasticity. Therefore, it needs carefully selected care that would meet modern cosmetological requirements.

How muscles are connected to massage lines


The facial muscles are an impromptu frame that keeps the skin in good shape, maintaining its firmness and elasticity. Massage is a cosmetic manipulation that has a positive effect on them. Having a tightening effect, it allows you to transform the skin of the face, making it fresher and more rested, getting rid of redness and rashes, creating a clearly defined contour.

The procedure is carried out strictly in accordance with massage lines. These are the directions of movements that the beautician must adhere to.

Massage lines line up in accordance with the flow of lymph, and under certain influences, they can speed it up. This is favorably displayed on general condition skin, relieves the body of toxins and toxins, relieves swelling.

Read on the site about the most popular and effective facial massage techniques in this one.


In the human body, there are over 100 facial muscles located on the head and neck. You can study each of them in more detail, based on the photos, pictures, descriptions below.

On the anatomical side, all facial muscles can be divided into 6 subgroups:

  • Mimic;
  • cervical musculature;
  • chewable;
  • Language;
  • oral cavity;
  • Oculomotor.

Some may be assigned to several subgroups at the same time.


This includes those responsible for regulating chewing movements. Namely:





These muscles provide minimal impact on general form faces.

The chewing muscle group is responsible for the movement of the lower jaw during speech activity, grinding food. She is always in hypertonicity, does not need to perform specific exercises. Subject to spasms due to excessive compression of the teeth, it can negatively affect blood flow, activating photoaging processes in the designated area.

This can be said about the pterygoid muscles, whose main purpose is to grind solid food. Care for them is selected according to the testimony of a particular person. This is the only way to achieve positive dynamics: tighten the oval of the face, prevent the development of deep wrinkles, etc.


The functions of facial muscles are reduced to displaying emotions. Due to the extensibility of the epidermis, the construction of folds that appear in the vertical direction, relative to muscle contraction, emotional manifestations are formed. Hence the rule - the more emotional the person, the more likely the formation of mimic creases in the face or neck area.

The facial muscles are divided into three categories:

  • Upper facial;
  • median;
  • Lower facial and cervical.

The former, in case of stretching, provoke the formation of vertical frontal wrinkles, diagonal folds in the bridge of the nose, as well as "crow's feet" under the lower eyelids. The latter provide a feeling of "sunken cheeks", outline the nasolabial folds, make wrinkles under the eyes and in the corners of the lips more noticeable. The mimic muscles of the face of the third group contribute to the protrusion of the lower lip forward, lowering the corners of the mouth.

All indicated defects and problems are easily removed by high-quality working out of the entire muscle zone.

Neck band


By analogy with the facial muscles of the face and neck, the neck is also divided into three categories:

  1. Superficial cervical muscle group;
  2. Deep cervical muscles (this includes the posterior scalene, anterior and median).




If we talk about the differences, then the cervical, in comparison with the facial and chewing muscles of the face, have five fascia (connective sheaths that cover them from the outside):

  1. Surface;
  2. own neck;
  3. Scapular-clavicular;
  4. Internal cervical;
  5. Prevertebral.

Neck spasms provoke the formation of skin laxity in the designated area of ​​the body, lead to the development of wrinkles and folds, and trigger photoaging processes. In some cases, there is a second chin, as well as transverse creases.

Topology of facial muscles and their functions


Facial anatomy is a well researched branch of medicine. And therefore muscle function does not need additional study - they have long been thoroughly analyzed and strictly defined. In some cases, muscle groups have a "speaking" name, and therefore it is not difficult to guess about their functions.

Muscle of the cranial vault(also known as " tendon helmet”) is responsible for raising the eyebrows, collects the skin on the forehead in transverse folds.

Occipital frontal pyramidal muscle raises the eyebrows, leading to the formation of transverse folds and creases. It is a pair - one above both eyebrows, which is why they move independently of each other. This activity affects the opening of the eyes, which gives the face different expressions.


Temporal muscles coordinate jaw movements.

fibers muscles of the proud placed between the eyebrows and stretched to the forehead. The shift of the eyebrows, the wrinkling of the nose are the actions for which they are responsible. Structural features of the muscles of the face cause the appearance of wrinkles between the eyebrows with their tension.


Wrinkling eyebrow muscles set them in motion. They lead the inner eyebrow border to the median line in two directions: inward and upward, as a result of which the edges converge. Hypertonicity provokes the formation of vertical creases between the eyebrows.


Responsible for closing the gaps between the eyes.


Shrinking, provokes motor activity wings of the nose. Its contraction causes expansion and narrowing of the nasal passages.


tear muscles lift the upper lip, move the wings of the nose.

Infraocular muscle- also responsible for lifting the upper lip.

Located in the lower region of the face, will mix the mouth corners into different sides. It is she who is responsible for the smile, can provoke the formation of nasolabial creases.


Pulls and stretches the lips, allows you to compress them.


Modioulos(in Latin) - knot of the corner of the mouth. It is he who gives the aesthetics of the lower facial third.

Needed to stretch the mouth corners. In a number of people, during its contraction, dimples form on the cheeks. In addition to mimic functions, it is of particular importance in the overall aesthetics of the face, its modeling. Competent study of the muscle of laughter allows you to make adjustments to the oval of the face, slightly raise the corners.


They are located immediately above the laughter. They model the cheeks, dispersing the mouth opening to the sides. When the mouth expands, the muscle goes into hypertonicity. Interesting fact about the muscles: there is a layer of fat between the cheek muscle and the epidermis, in men it is narrower than in women. In children, it is noted in the greatest volume.


Triangular muscle (lowering the mouth)- she is responsible for lowering the corners of the mouth. Direction helps in expressing feelings of sadness. In a state of hypertonicity, the face takes on a negative expression.

drooping muscles pull the lips down, giving the face an expression of disgust.

It is represented by two parts that are located under the square of the muscles of the lower lip. At the time of contraction, a dimple may form on the chin.


Neck muscles especially important when turning and tilting the head. Muscular thinning provokes the formation of a second chin, as well as a decrease in the plasticity and elasticity of the skin, and the acquisition of a gray tint of the face.


In addition to the described muscle groups, those that belong to internal organs(uvula, palate, middle ear, etc.).
How do emotions and muscles relate?

All the muscles included in the mimic group are responsible for displaying a certain emotion:

  • Frontal - raises the brow arches, forms horizontal forehead wrinkles, in this way expressing delight, amazement on the face.
  • The circular muscle allows you to close your eyes with a strong fright, as well as roll them up or lower them. With its help, a person shows embarrassment, misunderstanding.
  • The zygomatic muscles major and minor help in producing a smile by lifting the corners of the mouth.
  • The muscles responsible for lowering the mouth corners are active during negative emotions.
  • The laughing muscles allow the corners of the lips to stretch in a horizontal direction, forming "pits" at the moment of smiling.
  • The greatest activity of the circular muscle is noted when sending air kisses.
  • Disappointment, anger, confusion - those emotions that are displayed with the help of the chin muscle (it slightly raises lower jaw pushing it forward).
  • Fear, disgust and other negative feelings are impossible without a superficial neck muscle that works by straining.

More than a thousand different combinations of muscle contractions have been studied and recorded, displaying one or another feeling on a human face.

Photoaging: age-related muscle modifications


Over time, the muscle structure loses its elasticity and plasticity, changes in size and lengthens. Features of modifications depend on the nature of muscle manifestations in different situations. For example, under stress, during leisure or work, in dialogues with people, etc. Factors such as lifestyle, proper care, and heredity acquire importance.

In those areas where the muscles are not firmly attached to the skin surface, fatty hernias form over the years. They arise due to the pulling of the ligaments under the influence of excessive loads. Where the ligaments remain able to hold the facial muscles, wrinkles, creases and folds occur.

Most people are convinced that age-related changes in tissues occur due to their hypertonicity or excessive relaxation, but the point is different - incessant muscle activity that provokes spasms. With frequent contraction, the muscles fall off in folds, change the relief of the skin, its structure.

For example, spasms in the region of the frontal muscle tissues provoke the development of horizontal and vertical folds in the indicated facial region, and increase the tone of the circular muscles. Gradually, all this leads to the appearance of "crow's feet", nasolabial furrows.

Our perception of the face depends on the shape of the head, the size, shape and color of the eyes, the shape of the ears or nose, and other anatomical features given by nature. But there are also very important structures that we can influence ourselves. These are the skin and muscles of the face.

There are more than 100 muscles on the head and neck and they are divided into several groups: facial muscles, oculomotor muscles, chewing muscles, hyoid muscles, muscles of the neck and adjacent areas. The division of muscles into groups is rather arbitrary, and sometimes some of them can be assigned to one or another group. Below we will consider all the main muscles, the state of which determines the state of the face, using the links below you can go to the exercises for each of these muscles.

Mimic muscles.

Among the muscle structures that affect the state and perception of the face, it is necessary, first of all, to single out the facial muscles, which are often simply called the facial muscles. Mimic muscles differ from all the others, first of all, in that only one end (and even then not always) is attached to the bones, and the other end is attached directly to the skin of the face.

In their structure, facial muscles do not differ from other skeletal muscles: they are striated muscles, consisting of bundles of fibers through which blood vessels and nerves pass. But there are also differences. These muscles do not have dense shells (fascia) and rigid attachment to the bones. Thin and almost flat facial muscles lie close to the surface in the subcutaneous adipose tissue and are partially woven into the skin. The main function of facial muscles is to create emotional facial expressions. The performance of this function occurs due to the stretching of the skin and the formation of skin folds. Folds always form across the direction of muscle contraction. Poor condition and use of facial muscles leads to accelerated formation of wrinkles on the face as well as the neck.

Most of the facial muscles are paired, that is, of the same name, having the ability to act independently, the muscles are located on the right and left halves of the face. Greater development of one of the muscles of the pair leads to facial asymmetry. The circular muscle of the mouth, the muscle of the chin and the subcutaneous muscle of the neck do not have a pair. All facial muscles are innervated by a separate facial nerve and can be used in a wide variety of combinations.

The figures below show the location of the muscles of the head, including all facial muscles.

Mimic muscles of the upper part of the face.

The two parts of the frontalis muscle, through a wide tendon covering the top of the head (aponeurosis or tendinous helmet), are connected to the occipital muscle, forming a single occipital-frontal or epicranial muscle. The tendon helmet is formed from connective tissue, it is very durable and practically does not stretch. Starting from the tendon helmet, the fibers of the frontalis muscle run vertically from the hairline to the eyebrows, where they are woven into the skin. Muscle contraction occurs when the eyebrows and forehead skin are raised upward with the formation of horizontal folds on the forehead. Depending on the amount of eyebrow raising, the muscle expresses different degrees of surprise, as well as distrust, if only one eyebrow rises.

Between the parts of the frontal muscle in the lower part of the forehead and at the top of the nose is the pyramidal muscle of the proud, lowering the skin of the forehead down. The muscle is attached to the bone of the nose and is woven into the skin of the forehead. Contracting, the proud muscle forms horizontal folds on the bridge of the nose. The tension of this muscle gives the face a stern, angry or formidable expression.

Almost always, simultaneously with the muscle of the proud, the muscle that shifts the eyebrows also contracts. The muscle starts from the frontal bone near the bridge of the nose, passes under the eyebrows to about their middle and is woven into the skin of the eyebrows. Muscle contraction occurs due to the formation of one or two vertical folds on the forehead. With the help of this muscle, we frown or show our diligence.

The muscles of the auricle in humans are poorly developed. The ability to move the ears is combined with the simultaneous tension of the temporalis muscle. The anterior ear muscle pulls the auricle forward. The upper pulls the auricle up. Better than other ear muscles, the posterior auricular muscle is developed, attached to the posterior convex surface of the auricle and pulling the auricle back. Muscle movement, apparently, should reflect attention or fear. With this movement, the skin shifts from the outer corners of the eyes to the ears.

The external muscles of the eye are combined into a single circular muscle of the eye, in which it is possible to distinguish the annular (orbital) muscle that performs separate functions, which narrows the palpebral fissure, the muscle of the upper eyelid that closes the eyes, the muscle of the lower eyelid responsible for squinting and the lacrimal part, expanding the lacrimal sac. The circular muscle is attached to the edges of the orbit and is woven into the skin of the eyelids. When tensed, the annular part of the orbicular muscle reduces its diameter, creating skin folds at the outer edges of the eyes (crow's feet) and on the nose, and is also able to push the eyeball forward, creating the effect of goggle eyes. Our vision depends on the condition of these muscles.

Mimic muscles of the middle part of the face.

In the cartilaginous part of the nose, there are several facial muscles, which are usually hardly used. The nasal muscle covering the wings of the nose lowers the wing of the nose and narrows the nostrils. The narrowing of the nostrils occurs due to the formation of folds above the upper lip. The depressor septum muscle depresses the nasal septum and the middle of the upper lip. Maybe it's the face that shows anger. You can also highlight small muscles that expand the nostrils by increasing the nasolabial fold. Weakness of the nasal muscles leads to poor breathing through the nose and colds.

The largest and deepest of the muscles of the middle part of the face is the buccal. This muscle makes up the bulk of the cheeks and determines their shape. The buccal muscle starts from the upper and lower jaws and is woven with a narrow end into the circular muscle of the mouth and the skin of the corner of the mouth. By contracting, the buccal muscle pulls the corners of the mouth back, pressing the lips and cheeks to the teeth and causing a skeptical or displeased facial expression. The main function of the muscle, sucking, is used intensively in infancy, then the muscle weakens, which can cause the appearance of "hollow cheeks", and contribute to an increase in the layer of subcutaneous fatty tissue in which it is located.

Above the buccal muscle on the diagonal of the cheek are the large and small zygomatic muscles, acting together. Starting from the zygomatic bone, the large zygomatic bone is woven into the skin of the corner of the mouth, and the small one is woven into the skin of the nasolabial fold. The main function of these muscles is to express joy when the mouth is closed and laughter, laughter when open. This function is performed by deepening the nasolabial fold, creating folds on the cheeks and around the eyes. With muscle tension, the skin of the face moves from the corners of the mouth towards the temples.

In the other direction, from the corners of the mouth towards the earlobes, the skin moves with the contraction of the side muscle of laughter. This superficial muscle is capable of producing a wide variety of smile patterns due to its extremely flexible attachment. The side muscle of laughter starts from the fascia (sheath) of the masticatory muscle and is woven into the skin of the corner of the mouth. Muscle contraction occurs due to the lengthening of the nasolabial fold and the creation of folds near the corner of the mouth and at the bottom of the cheek, as well as under the eyes.

The third muscle, the contraction of which creates a smile on the face, is the muscle that raises the corner of the mouth. This muscle starts from the bone under the lower edge of the eye socket and above the fangs, then weaving into the skin of the corner of the mouth, and raises the corners of the mouth up and towards the nose. Muscle contraction occurs due to the deepening of the nasolabial fold, the creation of skin folds above the corners of the mouth and under the eyes.

The muscle that lifts the upper lip is often called the weeping muscle. Contracting, the muscle simultaneously raises the wing of the nose, creating an expression of disgust and discontent on the face. The muscle is attached to the bone of the edge of the eye cavity under the eyes, with the largest bundles attached at the inner corner of the eye, the smaller ones in the middle and at the outer corner of the eye. Muscle fibers are located almost vertically from top to bottom, weaving below into the skin of the upper lip. Muscle contraction occurs due to the formation of the nasolabial fold and folds of the skin of the nose and under the eyes.

Mimic muscles of the lower part of the face and neck.

The orbicularis oculi muscle surrounds the oral cavity and includes the lips. Deep-lying muscle bundles are arranged radially, superficial - arcuate. The bundles of the circular muscle of the mouth are intertwined with the fibers of the buccal muscle, the muscle that lowers the lower lip, subcutaneous muscle neck and tightly fused with the skin of the upper and lower lips, as well as the corners of the mouth. The muscle is the basis of the structure of the lips, it closes and opens the mouth, pulls forward or compresses the lips. When the muscle contracts (squeezing or pulling the lips forward), the skin above the upper and under the lower lip gathers into vertical folds.

The muscle that lowers the corner of the mouth is rarely used in facial gymnastics, since with age the corners of the mouth fall under the influence of gravity, and this tendency is tried not to be strengthened. Her training is only important if you want to make your chin more impressive. Mimicically, this triangular muscle is used to express extreme discontent. The wide base of the triangle of the muscle that lowers the angle of the mouth is fixed on the edge of the lower jaw, and the apex is woven into the circular muscle of the mouth near the corner of the mouth. Muscle contraction occurs due to the deepening of the nasolabial fold and the creation of folds down from the corners of the mouth.

The muscle that lowers the lower lip originates on the lateral parts of the lower jaw bone and is attached to the skin of the lower lip closer to the surface than the muscle that lowers the angle of the mouth. The lowering of the lower lip, which gives the face an expression of disgust, occurs due to the contraction of the skin of the chin and the formation of a horizontal fold under the lower lip.

The chin muscle has no pair. This muscle, starting from the bone between the canines of the lower jaw, forms a bulge in the center of the chin and is woven into the skin of the center of the chin. Since ancient times, the massiveness of this muscle has been associated with determination and self-confidence, its contraction will cause an expression of arrogance on the face. Contracting, the muscle pulls the skin and tissues of the chin up, raising and protruding the lower lip due to the formation of a sharp fold of skin under the lower lip and lowering the corners of the mouth.

The subcutaneous muscle of the neck is the only muscle covering the front and sides of the neck. Her condition, basically, determines the quality of the skin of the neck. The muscle starts from the center of the lower jaw, lower lip and corners of the mouth, attaching below to the fascia chest muscle at the level of the second rib. The fibers of this wide and thin muscle cover the top of the muscles under the lower jaw and have a noticeable effect on the shape of this area (the so-called "second chin" zone). The contraction of the subcutaneous muscle of the neck gives the face a frightening, angry or, conversely, extremely frightened look. When contracting, the muscle creates skin folds in the corners of the mouth or on the cheeks, it can also deepen the nasolabial fold, help lower the corners of the mouth down.

Other muscles of the face.

The muscle that raises upper eyelid, one of the muscles of the eyeball, opens the eye and is located in the upper eyelid under the pillow of subcutaneous fatty tissue. This muscle is similar to the facial ones in that the skin of the upper eyelid is usually attached to the muscle, and at the point of attachment, when the eye is open, a fold forms on the upper eyelid, which increases with age and turns into an overhang.

The maxillohyoid and digastric muscles are located under the lower jaw, their main function is to lower the lower jaw when eating or talking. The good condition of these muscles, the absence of chronic tension is extremely important for normal breathing and articulate speech. However, they are attached to a movable hyoid bone, so their position is less fixed than that of other skeletal muscles, resulting in a gradual downward sagging due to gravity. These muscles do not move the skin during their contraction, but their weakness and sagging leads to stretching of the skin under the lower jaw and the formation of a double chin.

The chewing muscles have the least effect on the appearance of the face. A powerful chewing muscle that raises the lower jaw does not need to be trained, as it is constantly used when eating and talking. However, spasms often occur in it, often associated with the habit of clenching the teeth. Spasms that turn into chronic stress can significantly impair blood circulation and accelerate facial skin aging. The same can be said about the pterygoid chewing muscles, which move the lower jaw to the right and left to grind hard food. Our modern diet has left these muscles out of work, and chronic tension in them is very common. The elimination of these tensions is important not only for the improvement of the skin, but, even more so, for the health of teeth and gums.

The state of the strongest of the chewing muscles, the temporalis, can contribute to the formation of wrinkles on the face. The fan-shaped temporal muscle fills the temporal fossa, then the muscle bundles, heading down, form a powerful tendon, which is attached to the process of the lower jaw. Above the temporal muscle in the layer of subcutaneous fatty tissue are the mimic muscles of the auricle. In the temporal muscle, zones of tension are often formed, which are felt as headache in temples. Therefore, the temporalis muscle needs to be trained periodically. You can train the temporalis muscle along with the muscles of the auricle associated with it, the weakness of which with age leads to the formation of crow's feet at the outer corners of the eyes.

Fundamentals of cosmetology.

Chewing muscles. The chewing muscles include the temporal, chewing, medial and lateral pterygoid muscles. They differentiate from the muscles of the first visceral (jaw) arch. Combined and varied movements of these muscles cause complex chewing movements.

Muscles of the head and neck; side view. 1 - temporal muscle (m. temporalis); 2 - occipital-frontal muscle (m. occipitofrontalis); 3 - circular muscle of the eye (m. Orbicularis oculi); 4 - large zygomatic muscle (m. zygomaticus major); 5 - muscle that lifts the upper lip (m. Levator labii superioris); 6 - muscle that raises the corner of the mouth (m. Levator anguli oris); 7 - buccal muscle (m. buccinator); 8 - chewing muscle (m. masseter); 9 - muscle lowering the lower lip (m. depressor labii inferioris); 10 - chin muscle (m. mentalis); 11 - muscle lowering the corner of the mouth (m. depressor anguli oris); 12 - digastric muscle (m. digastricus); 13 - maxillofacial muscle (m. mylohyoideus); 14 - hyoid-lingual muscle (m. hyoglossus); 15 - thyroid muscle (m. thyrohyoideus); 16 - scapular-hyoid muscle (m. omohyoideus); 17 - sternohyoid muscle (m. sternohyoideus); 18 - sternothyroid muscle (m. sternothyroideus); 19 - sternocleidomastoid muscle (m. sternocleidomastoideus); 20 - anterior scalene muscle (m. scalenus anterior); 21 - middle scalene muscle (m. scalenus medius); 22 - trapezius muscle (m. trapezius); 23 - muscle that lifts the scapula (m. Levator scapulae); 24 - stylohyoid muscle (m. stylohyoideus)

Muscles of the head and neck; deep layer . 1 - lateral pterygoid muscle (m. pterygoideus lateralis); 2 - buccal muscle (m. buccinator); 3 - medial pterygoid muscle (m. pterygoideus medialis); 4 - thyroid muscle (m. thyrohyoideus); 5 - sternothyroid muscle (m. sternothyroideus); 6 - sternohyoid muscle (m. sternolyoideus); 7 - anterior scalene muscle (m. scalenus anterior); 8 - middle scalene muscle (m. scalenus medius); 9 - posterior scalene muscle (m. scalenus posterior); 10 - trapezius muscle (m. trapezius)

temporalis muscle begins fan-shaped from the temporal fossa. Converging downward, the muscle fibers pass under the zygomatic arch and attach to the coronoid process of the lower jaw.

chewing muscle starts from the zygomatic arch and is attached to the outer roughness of the angle of the lower jaw.

The temporal and chewing muscles have dense fasciae, which, attaching to the bones around these muscles, form bone-fibrous sheaths for them.


medial pterygoid muscle starts from the pterygoid fossa of the sphenoid bone and is attached to the internal roughness of the angle of the lower jaw.

All three chewing muscles described raise the lower jaw. In addition, the masticatory and medial pterygoid muscles somewhat push the jaw forward, and the posterior tufts of the temporal muscles back. With unilateral contraction, the medial pterygoid muscle displaces the lower jaw in the opposite direction.

Lateral pterygoid muscle lies in a horizontal plane, starts from the outer plate of the pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone and, heading backwards, is attached to the neck of the mandible. With a unilateral contraction, the muscle pulls the lower jaw in the opposite direction, with a bilateral contraction, it pushes it forward.

Superficial muscles of the head and neck

Mimic muscles develop from the muscles of the second visceral (hyoid) arch. With one end they start from the bones of the skull, and with the other they are attached to the skin of the face. These muscles do not have fascia. With their contractions, they displace the skin and determine facial expressions, that is, expressive facial movements.

Mimic muscles are grouped around the natural openings of the face, one of them covers the roof of the skull. Participation in the act of speech determined the differentiation of muscles in the region of the mouth, as well as in the eyes. In the area of ​​the nose (since a person's sense of smell is not of leading importance) and especially around the ears (since a person has ceased to alert them), muscle reduction has occurred.

The mimic muscles include the supracranial (with frontal and occipital bellies); proud muscle; the circular muscle of the eye, wrinkling the eyebrow; circular mouth; muscle that raises the corner of the mouth; muscle that lowers the corner of the mouth; buccal; muscle that raises the upper lip; zygomatic; laughter muscle; muscle that lowers the lower lip; chin; nose muscles and ear muscles.

Skull and facial muscles

Mimic muscles and integuments of the face

supracranial muscle it is mainly represented by a tendon sprain covering, like a helmet, the roof of the skull. Tendon stretch passes into small muscle bellies: behind - occipital, attached to the upper nuchal line; in front - in more developed frontal, woven into the skin of the superciliary arches. If the tendon helmet is fixed by the occipital bellies, then the contraction of the frontal bellies lays horizontal folds on the forehead and raises the eyebrows. With sufficient development of the abdomens of the supracranial muscle, their contraction sets the scalp in motion.

Muscle of the proud starts from the back of the nose and attaches to the skin above the bridge of the nose. Contracting, the muscle forms horizontal folds here.

Circular muscle of the eye located in the orbit and is divided into three parts: the orbital, secular and lacrimal. The orbital part is formed by the most peripheral fibers of the muscle; contracting, they close their eyes. The eyelid part consists of fibers laid under the skin of the eyelids; contracting, they close their eyes. The lacrimal part is represented by fibers surrounding the lacrimal sac; contracting, they expand it, which contributes to the outflow of lacrimal fluid into the lacrimal canal.

Eyebrow wrinkling muscle, starts from the nasal part of the frontal bone, goes laterally and, piercing the frontal belly of the supracranial muscle, is attached to the skin of the forehead in the region of the superciliary arches. Contracting, the muscle lays vertical folds on the forehead.

Orbicular muscle of the mouth represents a complex muscle fibers included in the upper and lower lips. It consists mainly of circular fibers and, contracting, narrows the mouth. Several other facial muscles are woven into the circular muscle of the mouth.

Muscle that lifts the corner of the mouth, originates from the canine fossa of the maxillary bone. Descending to the corner of the mouth, it attaches to the skin and mucous membranes and is woven into the circular muscle of the mouth in the region of the lower lip.

Muscle that lowers the corner of the mouth, originates from the edge of the lower jaw. Converging in its bundles to the corner of the mouth, it attaches to the skin and is woven into the circular muscle of the mouth in the region of the upper lip.

The last two muscles, contracting simultaneously, close the lips.

buccal muscle lies and thicker cheeks. With its upper bundles, it originates from the maxillary bone above its alveolar process, the lower bundles - from the body of the lower jaw below the alveoli, the middle ones - from the maxillary-pterygoid suture - a tendon cord connecting the base of the skull with the lower jaw. Heading towards the corner of the mouth, the upper bundles of the buccal muscle are woven into the lower lip, the lower ones into the upper lip, and the middle bundles are distributed in the circular muscle of the mouth. The main value of the buccal muscle is to counteract intraoral pressure. By pressing the cheeks and lips to the teeth, it helps to hold food between the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Adipose tissue accumulates on the buccal muscle, especially in childhood(causes the roundness of children's cheeks).

Muscle that lifts the upper lip, begins with three heads: from the frontal process and the lower orbital edge of the maxillary bone and from the zygomatic bone. The fibers go down and are woven into the skin of the nasolabial fold. By contracting, they deepen this fold, lifting and stretching the upper lip and expanding the nostrils.

Large zygomatic muscle goes from the zygomatic bone to the corner of the mouth, which pulls up and to the sides when contracted.

Laughter muscle inconstant, thin tuft stretches between the corner of the mouth and the skin of the cheek. Contracting, the muscle forms a dimple on the cheek.

Muscle that lowers the lower lip, starts from the body of the lower jaw deeper and medially to the muscle that lowers the corner of the mouth; ends in the skin of the lower lip, which, with its contraction, pulls down.

Chin muscle starts from the holes of the lower incisors, goes down and medially; attached to the skin of the chin. During its contraction, the muscle lifts and wrinkles the skin of the chin, causing the formation of pits on it, presses the lower lip to the upper one.

nasal muscle originates from the holes of the upper canine and external incisor. It distinguishes two bundles: narrowing the nostrils and expanding them. The first rises to the cartilaginous back of the nose, where it passes into a common tendon with the muscle of the opposite side. The second, attaching to the cartilage and skin of the wing of the nose, pulls the latter down.

front, top and posterior muscle ears fit to auricle and the cartilaginous part of the external auditory canal. Muscles are rarely developed enough to move the auricle.

deep muscles faces(A) and neck(B). (Left scalenus anterior removed)

Before proceeding to the study of the Method, it is desirable to study at least in general terms the topology of the muscles and their functions. What are the main anatomical differences between the muscles of the body and the face. Why are facial muscles weaker?

Anatomically, the muscles and skin of the face are more closely related than the muscles and skin of other areas of the human body.
Skeletal muscles, attaching to the bones on both sides, set them in motion: moving in space, maintaining balance, moving the limbs ... Each muscle of the body has an antagonist muscle (ex. biceps, triceps). Those. one muscle is responsible for one action, and the other for another. The muscles of the face are different.

One muscle contracts, and in order to return to the opposite state, it needs to relax. After all, the facial muscles are attached to the bones of the skull with only one end, while the other is woven directly into the skin of the face or mucous membrane. Hence, when the contraction occurs, the displacement of certain areas of the scalp and thereby give the face a variety of expressions, determine facial expressions. Such work does not require much strength, so the facial muscles are much smaller and weaker than the muscles of the body. (The exception is the masticatory muscles, which originate on the bones of the skull and are attached to the movable lower jaw and, accordingly, differ in strength from the rest of the facial muscles).

STUDY OF FACE MUSCLES (facial muscles, chewing muscles, neck muscles)

Mimic muscles are grouped mainly around the natural openings of the face (palpebral fissure, oral fissure, nasal openings, auditory openings). These openings under the action of mimic muscles either decrease until they are completely closed, or increase, i.e., expand.
In accordance with this, all facial muscles are divided into 4 groups.

  • I. Muscles of the scalp (muscles of the cranial vault)
  • II. Muscles around the eye.
  • III. Muscles of the circumference of the mouth.
  • IV. Muscles of the circumference of the nose.

We will also be interested in the chewing muscles and muscles of the neck.

Let's take a closer look at each muscle

MIMIC (FACIAL) MUSCLES

I. Muscles of the scalp (muscles of the cranial vault)

The entire cranial vault is covered with a thin supracranial muscle epicranius. It consists of:
extensive tendon ( Galea aponeurotica /2/) and the muscular part, which in turn is divided into three abdomens: frontal, occipital and lateral.
Frontal abdomen of the supracranial muscle ( Venter frontalis /1/) starts right from the skin of the eyebrows. And its main function is to raise the eyebrow up, making it arched. Exercise No. 3 for smoothing horizontal wrinkles strengthens it, lifts and tones it, protecting the forehead from the formation of wrinkles.

II. Muscles of the eye circle

Circular muscle of the eye ( Orbicularis oculi /3/). This is a powerful muscle that surrounds the entire orbit of the eye. It is divided into peripheral and internal parts.
With a soft, involuntary closing of the eye, the inner secular part works, and with a strong contraction of it, the eye closes.
Exercises No. 1 and No. 2 for the formation of beautiful eyes perfectly train this muscle, smoothing out fine wrinkles, reducing bags under the eyes, restoring clear outlines and the size that they had in youth to the eyes.

Eyebrow wrinkler ( Corrugator supercilii /4/).
The point of origin of the muscle is located on the frontal bone above the tear bone, and with its other part it is woven into the skin of the eyebrows. Reducing, it brings the eyebrows together and causes the formation of vertical wrinkles in the space between the eyebrows above the bridge of the nose. Exercise number 4 for smoothing vertical wrinkles will allow your forehead to always remain strong and smooth.

III. Muscles of the nose

All the muscles of the nose work in close relationship. And during contraction, the cartilaginous part of the nose is compressed, the wing of the nose is lowered, the cartilaginous part of the nasal septum is lowered.
Exercise number 7 for the formation of a chiseled nose perfectly stimulates blood circulation and oxygen flow, making the nose clearly defined.

Muscle of the proud ( Procerus /5/)
This pyramidal muscle crosses the bridge of the nose. It starts from the bony back of the nose and ends in the skin, connecting with the frontal abdomen (venter frontalis). When contracted, it lowers the skin in the area where the superciliary arches end, causing the formation of transverse folds above the bridge of the nose.

Nasalis /6/. nasal muscle
It starts from the tip of the nose and goes up, squeezing the nostrils.

Expanding nostrils back muscle.
Located near the edge of the nostril.
Function: Expands the nasal opening so that more air can enter the lungs.

Expanding nostrils anterior muscle.
A thin, tender muscle located just above the middle of each nostril.
Function: Opens the nostrils, causing them to swell.

IV, the most large group. Muscles of the mouth

Circular muscle of the mouth ( Orbicularis oris /7/)
This muscle is a muscle bundle, located in circles in the thickness of the lips, around the oral fissure. Muscle fibers go from it in different directions, connecting with the upper and lower lip, cheeks, nose and adjacent areas. Working with this muscle to one degree or another has a beneficial effect on all muscle fibers that join it.
When the circular muscle contracts, the mouth closes and the lips stretch forward.

In the area of ​​the cheekbones, a large ( Zygomaticus major /8/) and small ( Zygomaticus minor /9/) zygomatic muscles
Both muscles move the corners of the mouth up and to the sides. The starting point is located on the zygomatic bone and upper jaw. At the point of attachment, the muscles are intertwined with circular muscle mouth and grow into the skin of the corner of the mouth.

Muscle that lifts the upper lip (Levator labii superioris /18/)
It starts from the infraorbital edge of the upper jaw and ends in the skin of the nasolabial fold.
As it contracts, it lifts the upper lip (grinning) and makes the nasolabial fold deeper.

The muscle that lifts the corner of the mouth ( Levator labii anguli oris /17/)
When contracted, together with the zygomatic muscles, it shifts the corners of the lips up and to the sides. It is located under the levator labii superioris muscle and the zygomaticus major muscle and is attached to the corner of the mouth.

buccal muscle ( Buccinator /10/)
This muscle is the basis of the cheeks and forms a rounded upper part cheeks. It begins on the outer surface of the upper and lower jaws, and attaches to the skin of the lips and the corners of the mouth, weaving into the muscles of the upper and lower lips.
When contracted, it pulls the corners of the mouth back, promotes the sucking process, and also presses the lips and cheeks to the teeth, protecting the mucous membrane from biting when chewing.
Exercise number 5 for the formation of beautiful and elastic cheeks, allows this muscle to always be in good shape, and the cheeks are rounded and clear.

Laughter muscle ( Risorius /11/)
This is a narrow transverse bundle of fibers, originating in the skin near the nasolabial fold and masticatory fascia, and ending in the skin of the corners of the mouth. This is a fickle muscle and its task is to pull the corners of the mouth to the sides when smiling. In some, when it contracts, a small dimple forms on the side of the corner of the mouth.

Muscle that lowers the lower lip Depressor labii inferioris /12/)
This muscle is covered by the muscle that lowers the corner of the mouth. It starts from the base of the lower jaw and is attached to the skin of the chin of the entire lower lip. When contracting, it pulls the lower lip down (facial expression of disgust).

Muscle that lowers the corner of the mouth ( Depressor anguli oris /13/)
It starts at the lower edge of the lower jaw and is attached to the skin of the corner of the mouth and upper lip. When contracting, it pulls down the corner of the mouth and makes the nasolabial fold straight (gives the face an expression of sadness).

chin muscle ( Mentalis /14/)
This is a tiny muscle in the front of the chin. It is partially covered by a muscle that lowers the upper lip and is attached to the skin of the chin from the alveolar elevations of the lower incisors and canine. When contracting, it lifts the skin of the chin upward, pushes the lower lip upward, pressing it against the upper one.

CHECKING MUSCLES (Masseter /15/.)

Thanks to these muscles, the act of chewing occurs. They have a mobile point (attachment) on the lower jaw and a fixed point (beginning) on ​​the bones of the skull.
Contracting, they shift the lower jaw up and forward. Exercises No. 6 for the formation of a clear oval of the face and No. 12 for the formation of elastic cheeks and a clear oval of the face perfectly work out these muscles and help keep them in good shape. .

MUSCLES OF THE NECK

The muscles of the neck, covering one another, form three groups: superficial, median and deep.
Superficial neck muscle ( Platysma /16/)
This is a wide, flat layer of muscle fibers that lie under the skin on both sides of the neck. Extends from the lower part of the face to the collarbone. When contracting, it stretches the skin of the neck and partly of the chest, lowers the lower jaw and pulls the corner of the mouth outwards and downwards.

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Facial muscles are subject to age-related deformations. A change in their condition leads to sagging of the skin, the formation of folds, the appearance of pastosity. To prevent changes in the shape of the facial muscles, it is necessary to regularly carry out procedures to restore their tone and relaxation. Performing specialized exercises and massages - perfect option preservation of youth. Knowing the structure of the muscles of the face will help to carry out these procedures qualitatively.

Regular work of the muscles of the face normalizes the blood supply to the tissues, which contributes to a rapid metabolism, intensive nutrition of the skin with useful trace elements and vitamins.

Face change with age

The more often all the muscles of the face are involved, the higher their tone, and vice versa. However, hypotension is just as bad as hypertonicity. Therefore, the task of any procedures for influencing the muscles is to bring them into a normal, natural state.

Proper handling of facial and neck muscles leads to the following positive effects:

  • Relaxation;
  • Improvement of skin color;
  • Normalization of blood circulation;
  • Relaxation of tense muscles;
  • General skin tightening;
  • Wrinkle reduction;
  • Removal of a tired look;
  • Cleansing of the epidermis;
  • Formation of the correct oval of the face.

Anatomy of the muscles of the face and neck

Most anti-aging practices are associated with an effect on the muscles. Therefore, when performing anti-aging practices, it is important to know their location.

The anatomy of the structure of the human face has a complex structure, the muscles are intertwined, connected to each other, they can be one under the other, creating the face as it is. There are about 57 muscles on the face that are responsible for the expression of certain emotions and the movement of the jaw. The neck also consists of many interconnected muscles. Conventionally, the muscles of the face can be divided into:

  • mimic;
  • eye;
  • oral cavity and jaw (chewing);
  • cervical.

Mimic muscles at one end are adjacent to the bone tissue, and at the other they are attached to another muscle or skin. This feature is due to their mobility. Excessive activity of facial muscles leads to the formation of skin creases, called wrinkles. Other types facial muscles located on the bones and attached to them through tendons.

The fat layer on the face is small, so the visibility of age-related changes depends directly on the condition of the muscles in this area.

Consider the diagram of the main muscles of the face and neck of a person.

Atlas of the muscles of the human face

Functions of the muscles of the face and head

The anatomy of the muscles of the face is thoroughly studied, and their functions are precisely defined, in some cases the name of the muscles speaks for itself:

  • Muscle of the cranial vault(tendon helmet) moves the tendons and scalp, raises the eyebrows, gathers the skin of the forehead into transverse folds.
  • Occipitofrontal pyramidal, is responsible for raising the eyebrows, forming horizontal wrinkles on the forehead. Above each eyebrow is one such muscle, so the eyebrows can move separately from each other. Their movement is combined with the opening of the palpebral fissure, giving the face a certain expression.
  • Muscle of the temporal region moves the jaw in different directions.
  • fibers proud muscles are located between the eyebrows and stretch to the frontal zone. It helps to wrinkle the nose, move the eyebrows. Its tension leads to the formation of a horizontal wrinkle between the eyebrows.
  • Eyebrow wrinkling muscles set them in motion. They pull the inner edge of the eyebrows to the midline upward and inward, bringing the edges upward. Their hypertonicity leads to the appearance of vertical wrinkles between the eyebrows. The eyebrows, under the influence of these muscles, can bend at an angle, creating small folds in the skin perpendicular to its course. Its other function is to lift the upper eyelid.
  • Circular muscle of the eye responsible for narrowing and closing the palpebral fissure.
  • nasal when contracted, it allows the wings of the nose to move. Its contraction expands and narrows.
  • lacrimal muscle raising the upper lip and wing of the nose.
  • Infraorbital muscle, which raises the upper lip, is extremely important for appearance areas under the eyes and the eyes themselves.
  • Lesser zygomatic, shifts the corners of the mouth to the side and up.
  • Large zygomatic shifts the corners of the mouth to the side and up, helps to smile and participates in the appearance of the nasolabial fold.
  • circular mouth able to tighten the lips, pulling forward, and compress them.
  • Modiolus provides interaction of muscles around the mouth, gives shape to the lower third of the face.
  • Laughter muscle designed to stretch the corners of the mouth. In some, when it contracts, a dimple forms on the cheek. In addition to mimic functions, it plays an important role in facial modeling. Competent work with him allows you to adjust the oval, lift the corners of the lips.
  • buccal muscle located under the muscle of laughter. She supports the cheeks, stretches the oral fissure to the sides. The mouth becomes wider if the muscle is in hypertonicity. Between it and the skin is body fat. In women, the layer is larger than in men, and in babies it is especially strongly developed. With age, fat body cheeks decreases, forming sunken cheeks.
  • triangular muscle lowering the corners of the mouth. Her directed movement helps to express sadness, and with hypertonicity, the face takes on a gloomy expression.
  • Muscle that lowers the lower lip directs it down, gives his face an expression of disgust.
  • Chin consists of two parts located under the square muscle of the lower lip. Forms a hole in the chin if there is a distance between this pair. Pulls the lower lip up, making the lips look haughty.

An important role is played neck muscles. In addition to the function of movement and tilt of the head, they affect the appearance of a person. Their flabbiness or hypertonicity leads to the appearance of a second chin, a decrease in elasticity and gray skin, which are expressed by bags under the eyes and general swelling (pastosity).

Facial muscles on video

You can see how the facial muscles work in 3D format in the video:

You can learn in detail about the anatomy of the structure of the face and the physiology of its aging. The author talks in detail about the causes of age-related changes, gives recommendations and a set of exercises to restore youth. Download book N.B. Osminina "Anatomy of facial aging or myths in cosmetology"



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