Introduction: Facial skin aging is influenced by weakened mimetic muscles. Resistance training of facial mimetic muscles could be one of practical strategy to defend against age-related changes. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an exercise program (KFRP: Kyunghee Facial Resistance Program) designed for facial mimetic muscles on the mechanical properties and elasticity of facial skin.
Methods: For this study, 16 healthy female volunteers aged 35-58 participated in KFRP for eight weeks. The mechanical and elastic properties of skin were measured using a Cutometer® on the face and neck.
Results: The parameters representing skin fatigue decreased and the parameters representing skin elasticity increased significantly compared to the baseline in all measured regions. The ability of re-deformation of skin increased significantly except the zygomaticus and platysma muscle regions. All measured regions of skin became firmer and the ability to return to the initial position was also significantly improved compared to the baseline. Visco-elasticiy of the skin was not significantly altered.
Conclusions: The skin became more firm and elastic through KFRP. This method of resistive exercise had a significantly positive influence on the mechanical properties and elasticity of facial and neck skin.
Keywords: Cutometer; facial resistance exercise; facial skin; mechanical properties; skin elasticity.