Kasvot

Kasvot is Finnish for faces or visages. In Finnish, the term refers to the front part of the head bearing features and to a person’s expression or appearance. In anatomy, the face comprises the facial skeleton, soft tissues, muscles, skin, and sensory organs. The facial skeleton includes the maxillae (upper jaw), zygomatic (cheek) bones, nasal bones, mandible (lower jaw), lacrimal bones, and the palatine bones. Overlying tissues form the eyelids, lips, cheeks, and chin. The muscles of facial expression total about 20 muscles, working in a coordinated fashion to convey emotions.

Facial development occurs during embryogenesis; the face forms from the fusion of facial prominences between the fourth and eighth weeks of gestation. Variation in facial shape and features occurs across individuals and populations due to genetics, age, and environmental factors. Common changes with age include loss of skin elasticity, changes in subcutaneous fat, and dental aging.

Function and perception: Faces enable recognition, communication, and social interaction. Humans often identify others by facial features and expressions; facial expression reflects emotions and intentions. The study of faces spans anatomy, psychology (facial perception and recognition), and neuroscience.

Cultural aspects: Faces play a central role in cosmetics, art, and performance. Practices such as makeup, masks, and prosthetics modify or conceal facial appearance. In modern society, facial recognition technologies raise privacy and ethical concerns.