Surprise Look (Wide Eyes Lift)
The surprise look (wide eyes lift) is a bodyweight facial exercise targeting the frontalis and orbicularis oculi muscles. It involves opening the eyes as wide as possible to strengthen and tone the muscles of the upper face.
How to do it
- Sit upright with your face in a neutral, relaxed expression.
- Open your eyes as wide as possible while simultaneously raising your eyebrows.
- Hold the wide-eyed expression for 5 seconds without wrinkling your forehead.
- Slowly relax your eyes and eyebrows back to the neutral position.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Form cues
- Keep your head perfectly still.
- Open your eyes wide without straining.
- Lift your brows gently.
- Focus on keeping your forehead smooth.
- Breathe steadily throughout.
Breathing: Inhale as you open your eyes and maintain slow, rhythmic breathing while holding the position.
Common mistakes
- Wrinkling the forehead, which can create unwanted lines.
- Tensing the jaw, which adds unnecessary stress to the face.
- Holding your breath, which prevents proper muscle relaxation.
- Moving the head, which reduces the focus on eye muscles.
Muscles worked
Primary: facial muscles. Secondary: frontalis, orbicularis oculi.
Suggested sets & reps
Get fitter
3 sets x 10 repetitions, hold 5s, rest 30s
Lose weight
3 sets x 10 repetitions, hold 5s, rest 30s
Build muscle
3 sets x 12 repetitions, hold 8s, rest 45s
Easier, harder & alternatives
Make it easier
Make it harder
Take care if…
- If you feel sharp pain in your eyes or around your temples, stop immediately and rest.
- If you have recent eye surgery or vision conditions, check with a professional before starting.
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
Should I feel tension in my forehead?
You should feel a light engagement, but try to avoid deep wrinkling or harsh pulling.
How often should I do this exercise?
Facial exercises can be done daily as part of your morning or evening routine.
Can I do this if I wear contact lenses?
Yes, but if you feel any dryness or irritation, blink frequently or stop.