Cheekbone Lift
The cheekbone lift is a bodyweight facial exercise targeting the zygomaticus and cheek muscles. It involves lifting the cheeks toward the fingertips to define and elevate the cheekbone area.
How to do it
- Sit upright and relax your face completely.
- Place your index and middle fingers on top of your cheekbones just below the outer corners of your eyes.
- Smile as broadly as possible, pushing your cheek muscles upward toward your fingers.
- Hold the lifted smile for 5 seconds.
- Slowly relax and return to a neutral position.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Form cues
- Sit tall with a neutral spine
- Keep your jaw relaxed
- Smile broadly using your cheek muscles
- Press upward against your fingertips
- Hold steady without straining your neck
Breathing: Maintain slow, steady breaths throughout the hold to keep your facial muscles relaxed.
Common mistakes
- Wrinkling the forehead, which can cause tension
- Holding your breath, which prevents muscle relaxation
- Pushing too hard with fingers, which may irritate the skin
Muscles worked
Primary: facial muscles. Secondary: zygomaticus, cheeks.
Suggested sets & reps
Get fitter
3 sets x 12 reps, hold 5s, rest 30s
Lose weight
3 sets x 10 reps, hold 5s, rest 30s
Build muscle
3 sets x 15 reps, hold 5s, rest 30s
Easier, harder & alternatives
Make it easier
Make it harder
Take care if…
- If you feel sharp pain in your jaw or neck, stop immediately and ease off.
General educational guidance, not medical advice. Stop on sharp pain and check with a qualified professional if unsure.
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Start free →Frequently asked questions
How often should I do this?
For best results, aim for 3 to 5 times per week as part of your regular routine.
What if I feel tension in my neck?
Ensure your shoulders are down and your neck is neutral. If tension persists, reduce the intensity of the smile.
Can I do this while working?
Yes, it is a discreet exercise that can be done while sitting at your desk.