Which muscle depresses and draws the lower lip sideways?

Prepare for the VTCT Level 2 Facial and Skincare Test. Revise with flashcards and multiple choice questions, accompanied by insightful explanations. Ace your assessment with confidence!

Multiple Choice

Which muscle depresses and draws the lower lip sideways?

Depressor labii inferioris is responsible for lowering the lower lip and pulling it toward the side. This small muscle runs along the lower jaw and inserts into the lower lip, so when it contracts it pulls the lip downward and outward, helping create a pout or a sideways pull of the lip. Other muscles around the mouth have different primary actions: the zygomaticus elevates the corners of the mouth to smile, the orbicularis oris closes or purses the lips, and the mentalis protrudes and elevates the lower lip, not pulling it sideways.

Depressor labii inferioris is responsible for lowering the lower lip and pulling it toward the side. This small muscle runs along the lower jaw and inserts into the lower lip, so when it contracts it pulls the lip downward and outward, helping create a pout or a sideways pull of the lip. Other muscles around the mouth have different primary actions: the zygomaticus elevates the corners of the mouth to smile, the orbicularis oris closes or purses the lips, and the mentalis protrudes and elevates the lower lip, not pulling it sideways.

More practice questions