How many muscles does it take to frown?

Answer by  EarlZ (93)

I have heard the amount used can range from 40 to 46. The downward turn of the corners of your mouth is not a "natural" or easy facial expression to express, therefore your muscles must work harder to achieve this oppose to a smile.

Answer by  joehinton (10)

It takes forty three muscles to frown, but only seventeen to smile. Tell everyone to keep smiling because it is easier.

Answer by  mgoodman (204)

Yes, it takes a great many more muscles to frown than to smile. Also, smiling induces happier feelings whether you were happy before you started to smile. They studied this by having people place a pencil between their lips, forcing a smile. It stands to reason that frown might do the same thing - cause a less positive mood.