face

The face is the front part of the head from the forehead to the chin. In humans, it includes the eyes, nose, mouth, cheeks, and surrounding skin, and it plays a central role in identity, communication, and perception.

Anatomy and movement: The face is supported by the facial skeleton and shaped by a complex network of muscles supplied by the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII). Muscles such as the zygomaticus, orbicularis oris, and corrugator enable smiles, frowns, and many subtle expressions.

Skin and soft tissue determine texture and color, while the eyes, nose, and mouth provide sensory input and expressive cues. The face also houses structures for vision protection, scent perception, and vocal articulation.

Function and expression: Facial appearance supports interpersonal recognition and social signaling. Expressions communicate emotion and intent; some movements are reflexive, while others are voluntary. Research on facial expressions notes universality in basic emotions, though interpretation varies across cultures.

Variation and health: Facial features differ due to genetics, age, sex, and ethnicity. Ageing alters skin elasticity and volume. Medical considerations include facial palsy, trauma, congenital anomalies, and reconstructive or cosmetic procedures to repair or enhance appearance.

Other uses: In geometry, a face is a flat polygonal surface that forms part of a three-dimensional object’s boundary. The term also appears in phrases such as face a challenge or face a risk.