Are these exercises a waste of time and effort

The next time you go to the gym, you may see some people working out their facial muscles

The Toronto Star, however, reports that there have been no scientific studies to back up the theory that facial muscle exercises translate to a more youthful appearance

Working out your arms, legs, back and torso makes sense, because when you don't use those muscles, you lose them. But facial muscles are different. You're likely using the muscles around your eyes, forehead and mouth throughout the day. So they run no risk of falling as a result of disuse.

The exercises aren't completely useless, however, according to Joanne Dorion, a physiotherapist at the Personal Best Independence and Wellness Center. She told the news source that while the exercises won't do much to reduce flabby or sagging skin on the face, they could "positively influence general appearance, however the changes to the muscle contours would be less obvious."

Some exercises for the neck may tone the skin under the chin. Dr. Catriona Steele of Toronto Rehab told the Star that an exercise which is basically a "chin sit up" could result in subtle improvements to the neck…if repeated three times a day.

If that doesn't appeal to you, there are other ways to help reduce sagging skin and wrinkles from aging. 

• Injectable cosmetics like Botox and fillers are some of the most popular forms of cosmetic surgery non surgical procedures, and they can help lessen the appearance of crow's feet and laugh lines.

• The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) reports that facelifts are another way individuals can tighten the skin on the face and neck. According to 2011 Statistics on Cosmetic Surgery, facelifts were among the top five surgical procedures for men, with over 10,400 performed over the course of the year.

Dr. Brueck, who practices in Fort Myers FL, is a member of ASAPS.