Vertical Forehead Lift
The vertical forehead lift is a bodyweight facial exercise targeting the frontalis muscle. It uses finger resistance to work the forehead muscles vertically, helping to tone the brow area and reduce glabellar lines.
How to do it
- Sit upright with your face relaxed.
- Place both index fingers vertically between your brows, applying light inward pressure.
- Using your forehead muscles, try to push your brows apart and upward against the resistance of your fingers.
- Hold the lifted position for 5 seconds.
- Slowly release and relax the forehead.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Form cues
- sit tall with relaxed shoulders
- place fingers firmly between brows
- push brows up against finger resistance
- hold steady for five seconds
- breathe slowly during the hold
Breathing: Maintain a steady, rhythmic breath throughout the hold; do not hold your breath.
Common mistakes
- using too much pressure, which can irritate delicate skin
- scrunching the nose, which creates unnecessary tension elsewhere
- holding your breath, which prevents proper relaxation during the movement
- moving too quickly, which reduces the effectiveness of the muscle engagement
Muscles worked
Primary: facial muscles. Secondary: frontalis.
Suggested sets & reps
Get fitter
3 sets × 12 repetitions, 5-second hold, 30s rest
Lose weight
3 sets × 10 repetitions, 5-second hold, 30s rest
Build muscle
3 sets × 15 repetitions, 5-second hold, 30s rest
Easier, harder & alternatives
Make it easier
Make it harder
Alternatives
Take care if…
- If you feel sharp pain or skin irritation, stop the exercise immediately.
- If you have recent facial surgery or active skin conditions, consult 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
How often should I do this?
For best results, aim for 3 to 4 times per week, allowing your facial muscles time to recover.
What if I feel tension in my neck?
Ensure your neck is neutral and your shoulders are dropped. If tension persists, reduce the intensity of the brow movement.
Can I do this with moisturizer on?
Yes, but ensure your skin is not too slippery so you can maintain the necessary grip for resistance.