Which muscle is most responsible for elevating the corners of the mouth when smiling?

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 is most responsible for elevating the corners of the mouth when smiling?

The lift at the corners of the mouth when you smile mainly comes from the zygomaticus major. This muscle runs from the cheekbone (zygomatic bone) to the corner of the mouth (the modulo of the mouth). When it contracts, it pulls the mouth corners upward and outward, producing the smile. It also helps open the mouth slightly by elevating the upper lip. The zygomaticus minor can assist by elevating the upper lip a bit, but the primary mover for raising the corners is the zygomaticus major. In contrast, the platysma tends to pull the mouth downward or tighten the neck, the mentalis elevates the lower lip, and the triangularis depresses the corners of the mouth—actions that oppose a smile.

The lift at the corners of the mouth when you smile mainly comes from the zygomaticus major. This muscle runs from the cheekbone (zygomatic bone) to the corner of the mouth (the modulo of the mouth). When it contracts, it pulls the mouth corners upward and outward, producing the smile. It also helps open the mouth slightly by elevating the upper lip.

The zygomaticus minor can assist by elevating the upper lip a bit, but the primary mover for raising the corners is the zygomaticus major. In contrast, the platysma tends to pull the mouth downward or tighten the neck, the mentalis elevates the lower lip, and the triangularis depresses the corners of the mouth—actions that oppose a smile.

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