foreheads

The forehead is the frontal region of the face, extending from the hairline to the upper orbital rims. It overlies the frontal bone and is covered by skin continuous with the scalp. Key surface landmarks include the glabella in the midline and the supraorbital margins at the bases of the eyebrows. The frontal sinuses are located within the frontal bone and may not be present in all individuals.

Borders and features: The upper boundary is the hairline; the lower boundary is defined by the superior orbital rims and eyebrows; the sides meet the temple region. The forehead varies in height, slope, and width, with differences in frontal bone structure and soft tissue distribution affecting overall shape. In ordinary speech, foreheads refer to the paired regions above the eyes; anatomically the forehead is treated as a single facial region.

Anatomy and function: The frontalis muscle overlies the forehead and raises the eyebrows, creating horizontal wrinkles. The skin and subcutaneous tissue respond to aging and repetitive expression, forming forehead lines. The forehead also protects the underlying brain and contains soft tissues, nerves, and blood vessels.

Clinical notes: Trauma can fracture the frontal bone; frontal sinus disease can affect the region. Cosmetic and reconstructive procedures such as brow lifts or forehead contouring are performed to alter height or sagging. Forehead features are used in anthropological study and in forensic identification, and dermatologic care targets sun exposure and aging signs.