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Each week our experts Dr AAMER KHAN and LESLEY REYNOLDS bring you the latest beauty news and anti-ageing advice

FITNESS is a word that’s usually associated with the body. However that is all set to change as facial fitness is a key anti-ageing trend for 2017. From sculpting massage and high-tech gadgets to toning lotions and Pilates-style facials, these new approaches to firming the skin are now being seen as a credible alternative to Botox and fillers.

So what is fit skin? Chances are you don’t think twice about toning your muscles at the gym, so why think differently about your face?

When it comes to your skin, toning up the tiny facial muscles can help smooth wrinkles and make you look younger.

Discover the secrets to ageing gracefully with our guide to facial fitness.

TONE UP WITH MASSAGE

Facial massage has been used for thousands of years to boost circulation and it should be a key part of your skincare routine.

A good massage eases muscle tension, soothes eye strain, decreases puffiness and can also have a noticeable lifting effect.

Book a professional facial massage such as Decleor Orexcellence Pilates Massage Facial, £75 (decleor.co.uk).

This innovative salon treatment helps visibly lift and reshape the contours of the face.

After deep cleansing, three facial massage techniques are used to tone and stretch the facial muscles, leaving skin revived, rejuvenated and glowing.

Alternatively try a daily massage at home to decrease puffiness and boost circulation.

TRY A FACIAL WORKOUT

There are 50 muscles in the face and exercise can lift, tone and tighten them, boosting circulation and giving the skin a fresh youthful appearance. You will need to spend at least five minutes, twice a day, doing the exercises below to see results. 1 Close your eyes and look towards your nose, then squint, keeping eyelids closed. Hold for a few seconds and repeat five times. 2 Clench your teeth and open your lips, pulling the corners of your mouth sideways with your index fingers so your bottom teeth are visible. Repeat five times. 3 With your mouth closed, sit up straight and tilt your head back so you’re looking at the ceiling. Next, make your lips into a round shape and hold for a count of 20, then relax and bring your head back to its normal position. Aim to do this three to five times.

Results will depend on your age and the amount of loose skin but with regular practice everyone should see an improvement.

For more routines and tips, read The Ultimate Facercise by Carole Maggio (Pan, £12.99).