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How to Fake a Smile Download ArticleExplore this Article methods 1 Mastering a Realistic Expression 2 Thinking of Something That Makes You Smile Other Sections Expert Q&A Related Articles References Article Summary Co-authored by Traci Halvorson and Amy Bobinger, BA
Last Updated: October 9, 2025 Approved
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This article was co-authored by Traci Halvorson and by wikiHow staff writer, Amy Bobinger, BA. Traci Halvorson is a Modeling Agent, Former Model, and the Owner of Halvorson Model Management (HMM) in San Jose, California. HMM is a full-service, licensed talent agency representing over 300 professional models and actors. With over 25 years of experience in the modeling industry, Traci specializes in scouting, managing, advising, and launching modeling careers in the Bay Area. Traci holds a BA in Public Relations & Business Management from San Jose State University and also specializes in Marketing, Image consulting, and is a certified Life-Career Coach. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 89% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 210,734 times.
Faking a smile seems like it should be as easy as curling your mouth upwards, but in reality, it’s easy to spot the difference between a fake smile and a real smile. By understanding what makes a real smile, it will be easier for you to fake one. And since smiling can trick your brain into feeling happy, you might end up smiling for real![1]XResearch source
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 2:
Mastering a Realistic Expression
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1 Take a few deep breaths so you feel relaxed. If you’re in a situation where you need to fake a smile, take a moment to try to relax. If you're tense, your muscles will stiffen and your smile will look forced. Before you smile, take a deep breath or two and try to clear your mind so you can be as relaxed as possible.
You might not have a lot of time before you have to fake smile, but it doesn't take long to take a nice, deep breath.
2 Draw up the corners of your mouth. The most obvious part of a smile is to curl up the corners of your mouth, creating a smiley-face curve with your lips. You should feel the smile extend up and out into your cheeks.[2]XResearch source
The muscles that you use to control a smile are called the zygomatic major.
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3 Don't pinch your mouth shut. As you’re drawing up your cheeks to form your smile, try to keep your mouth relaxed, or else the smile will look forced. Part your lips slightly as you smile, or open your lips a little wider to show off a toothy grin!
4 Bring the smile into your eyes. A natural smile will affect your whole face, including your eyes. When you’re practicing a realistic smile, the corners of your eyes should crinkle slightly. The muscles used here are called the orbicularis oculi, and while you can’t contract them voluntarily, you can mimic a realistic smile by squinting slightly.[3]XResearch source
In addition to squinting the muscles around your eyes, you may want to slightly raise your eyebrows.
5 Say a word that ends in "uh" instead of saying "cheese." You’ve probably heard the phrase “Say Cheese!” a million times before taking a picture, but this won't give you a realistic smile. That’s because you clench your jaw when you say the word “cheese,” and the ee sound stretches your mouth. Instead, say a word ending in “uh,” like “karma” or “mocha.”[4]XResearch source
Words ending in the syllable "uh" will create a more natural, relaxed expression that resembles a real smile.
6 Put your tongue behind your upper front teeth to make your smile look natural. This trick, often used by fashion models, helps keep you from tensing up your smile. Since your face looks more relaxed, your smile will appear more natural. This is a great trick if you need to fake a smile for a photo, but it works in real life too.[5]XResearch source
For the most relaxed results, just rest the very tip of your tongue against the back of your front top teeth.
7 Practice smiling in front of a mirror every day. If you practice smiling for a few minutes every day, eventually it will become easier, and you'll look more natural. As you’re looking in the mirror, think of something that makes you genuinely smile. Pay attention to how the muscles in your face feel, especially around your eyes. When you need to fake a smile, try to recreate that feeling![6]XResearch source [7]X Expert Source Traci HalvorsonModeling AgentExpert Interview
By seeing yourself smile in the mirror, you can get more comfortable with your smile. Don’t worry if you don’t have perfect teeth or if your cheeks look round when you’re smiling. A nice smile will make you more attractive, no matter what.
For even more practice, smile at random strangers throughout the day.
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Thinking of Something That Makes You Smile
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1 Think of a happy memory to create a peaceful smile. No matter how much you practice, the best smile is a real one. When you need to show off a bright, genuine smile, think of a time when you were really happy. Think of something nice someone did for you, something you did that made you feel proud, or just a time when you were having fun and laughing with your friends or family.[8]XResearch source [9]X Expert Source Traci HalvorsonModeling AgentExpert Interview
You might think about the time you aced a really tough test, a great day with your friends, or your favorite birthday.
Once you have that moment, let it fill you up until you start to naturally smile.
If you’re having trouble thinking of a happy time, try to imagine all of the people you’re with wearing silly outfits, like chicken costumes or pirate hats! The more serious the situation, the better this will work!
2 Remember a funny joke to smile more brightly. Smiling and laughing go hand in hand, so if you can think of something funny, you’ll be more likely to smile! You could think of something funny that happened to you, something you read, or something that you saw on TV. As long as it makes you laugh, it will work![10]XResearch source
If you have a minute to prepare, try looking up some memes on your phone, or read through some texts with one of your funniest friends.
3 Imagine spending time with people you love if you need more help. Nothing will put a smile on your face faster than seeing someone you love. If you need to fake a smile, just take a moment to imagine that you’re surrounded by the people who mean the most to you.[11]XResearch source
This can look different for everyone. You might picture your grandma with a plate full of cookies, or you might think about holding hands with your spouse on an early date. Just let the pleasant memories come to you.
4 Picture a cute animal if you can't think of anything else. If you’re a pet lover, this is sure to produce an instant smile! There’s just something about the antics of cute animal that creates delight in most people. Just imagine a cute, fuzzy animal, then imagine yourself playing with it, talking to it, and having it show you affection. As soon as you feel your face light up, you’re good to go![12]XResearch source [13]X Expert Source Traci HalvorsonModeling AgentExpert Interview
You might picture a soft, fluffy kitten rubbing its face on your hand, a sweet pup asking for a belly rub, or even an iguana giving you kisses if that’s what you like.
This happy reaction to pets is the reason that therapy animals have become so popular in recent years!
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Question How can I make my smile more attractive? Traci Halvorson Modeling Agent Traci Halvorson is a Modeling Agent, Former Model, and the Owner of Halvorson Model Management (HMM) in San Jose, California. HMM is a full-service, licensed talent agency representing over 300 professional models and actors. With over 25 years of experience in the modeling industry, Traci specializes in scouting, managing, advising, and launching modeling careers in the Bay Area. Traci holds a BA in Public Relations & Business Management from San Jose State University and also specializes in Marketing, Image consulting, and is a certified Life-Career Coach. Traci Halvorson Modeling Agent Expert Answer Whitening strips are a great option, especially if you're heading to a photoshoot. Good oral care and dental hygiene are also really important. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 11 Helpful 12
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Co-authored by: Traci Halvorson Modeling Agent This article was co-authored by Traci Halvorson and by wikiHow staff writer, Amy Bobinger, BA. Traci Halvorson is a Modeling Agent, Former Model, and the Owner of Halvorson Model Management (HMM) in San Jose, California. HMM is a full-service, licensed talent agency representing over 300 professional models and actors. With over 25 years of experience in the modeling industry, Traci specializes in scouting, managing, advising, and launching modeling careers in the Bay Area. Traci holds a BA in Public Relations & Business Management from San Jose State University and also specializes in Marketing, Image consulting, and is a certified Life-Career Coach. This article has been viewed 210,734 times. 26 votes - 89% Co-authors: 35Updated: October 9, 2025 Views: 210,734 Categories: Acting
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The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.
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Article SummaryX
It can be easy to spot the difference between a fake smile and a real one, so if you want to master a fake smile, you’ll need to make it as realistic as possible. Start by relaxing your face, then draw up the corners of your mouth. You should feel the smile extend up into your cheeks, which will naturally part your lips a bit. Since a natural smile lights up your entire face, raise your eyebrows a little as you slightly squint your eyes. To avoid tensing up, rest the very tip of your tongue behind your upper front teeth. Another way that you can fake a smile is to think of a happy memory or a funny joke. To learn how to practice your fake smile, keep reading!Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Reader Success Stories
Angel Jackson
Aug 6, 2021
"I don't smile that often and everyone thinks I am sad all the time. Now, thanks to you guys I fake a smile every day. You really helped me. Now, I can fool anyone into believing I am happy."..." more
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Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Traci Halvorson Modeling Agent Co-authors: 35Updated: October 9, 2025 Views: 210,73489% of readers found this article helpful. 26 votes - 89% Click a star to add your vote
Angel Jackson
Aug 6, 2021
"I don't smile that often and everyone thinks I am sad all the time. Now, thanks to you guys I fake a smile every day. You really helped me. Now, I can fool anyone into believing I am happy."..." more
K D.
Mar 25, 2023
"Autistic, and in a city that isn't exactly friendly to neurodivergents. This helped when I was depressed, and still helps to this day with masking."..." more
Stefan S
Nov 3, 2020
"The best thing I heard so far today. I have depression, so I like to fake smiles. This is making my job a bit better."..." more
I'm not telling you this N.
Aug 25, 2024
"Since the pandemic ended, I haven't had a mask to hide my frown, so this really helped!" Rated this article:
Just Lila
Jun 10, 2021
"I got to fake smile better! I love the read, it helped so much! Thanks." Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
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Download Article Explore this Article methods 1 Mastering a Realistic Expression 2 Thinking of Something That Makes You Smile Other Sections Expert Q&A Related Articles References Article Summary Co-authored by Traci Halvorson and Amy Bobinger, BA 
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Co-authored by: Traci Halvorson Modeling Agent This article was co-authored by Traci Halvorson and by wikiHow staff writer, Amy Bobinger, BA. Traci Halvorson is a Modeling Agent, Former Model, and the Owner of Halvorson Model Management (HMM) in San Jose, California. HMM is a full-service, licensed talent agency representing over 300 professional models and actors. With over 25 years of experience in the modeling industry, Traci specializes in scouting, managing, advising, and launching modeling careers in the Bay Area. Traci holds a BA in Public Relations & Business Management from San Jose State University and also specializes in Marketing, Image consulting, and is a certified Life-Career Coach. This article has been viewed 210,734 times. 26 votes - 89% Co-authors: 35 Updated: October 9, 2025 Views: 210,734 Categories: Acting 
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1 Take a few deep breaths so you feel relaxed. If you’re in a situation where you need to fake a smile, take a moment to try to relax. If you're tense, your muscles will stiffen and your smile will look forced. Before you smile, take a deep breath or two and try to clear your mind so you can be as relaxed as possible. 
2 Draw up the corners of your mouth. The most obvious part of a smile is to curl up the corners of your mouth, creating a smiley-face curve with your lips. You should feel the smile extend up and out into your cheeks.[2] 
3 Don't pinch your mouth shut. As you’re drawing up your cheeks to form your smile, try to keep your mouth relaxed, or else the smile will look forced. Part your lips slightly as you smile, or open your lips a little wider to show off a toothy grin! 
4 Bring the smile into your eyes. A natural smile will affect your whole face, including your eyes. When you’re practicing a realistic smile, the corners of your eyes should crinkle slightly. The muscles used here are called the orbicularis oculi, and while you can’t contract them voluntarily, you can mimic a realistic smile by squinting slightly.[3] 
5 Say a word that ends in "uh" instead of saying "cheese." You’ve probably heard the phrase “Say Cheese!” a million times before taking a picture, but this won't give you a realistic smile. That’s because you clench your jaw when you say the word “cheese,” and the ee sound stretches your mouth. Instead, say a word ending in “uh,” like “karma” or “mocha.”[4] 
6 Put your tongue behind your upper front teeth to make your smile look natural. This trick, often used by fashion models, helps keep you from tensing up your smile. Since your face looks more relaxed, your smile will appear more natural. This is a great trick if you need to fake a smile for a photo, but it works in real life too.[5] 
7 Practice smiling in front of a mirror every day. If you practice smiling for a few minutes every day, eventually it will become easier, and you'll look more natural. As you’re looking in the mirror, think of something that makes you genuinely smile. Pay attention to how the muscles in your face feel, especially around your eyes. When you need to fake a smile, try to recreate that feeling![6] [7] 
1 Think of a happy memory to create a peaceful smile. No matter how much you practice, the best smile is a real one. When you need to show off a bright, genuine smile, think of a time when you were really happy. Think of something nice someone did for you, something you did that made you feel proud, or just a time when you were having fun and laughing with your friends or family.[8] [9] 
2 Remember a funny joke to smile more brightly. Smiling and laughing go hand in hand, so if you can think of something funny, you’ll be more likely to smile! You could think of something funny that happened to you, something you read, or something that you saw on TV. As long as it makes you laugh, it will work![10] 
3 Imagine spending time with people you love if you need more help. Nothing will put a smile on your face faster than seeing someone you love. If you need to fake a smile, just take a moment to imagine that you’re surrounded by the people who mean the most to you.[11] 
4 Picture a cute animal if you can't think of anything else. If you’re a pet lover, this is sure to produce an instant smile! There’s just something about the antics of cute animal that creates delight in most people. Just imagine a cute, fuzzy animal, then imagine yourself playing with it, talking to it, and having it show you affection. As soon as you feel your face light up, you’re good to go![12] [13] 
Traci Halvorson Modeling Agent Traci Halvorson is a Modeling Agent, Former Model, and the Owner of Halvorson Model Management (HMM) in San Jose, California. HMM is a full-service, licensed talent agency representing over 300 professional models and actors. With over 25 years of experience in the modeling industry, Traci specializes in scouting, managing, advising, and launching modeling careers in the Bay Area. Traci holds a BA in Public Relations & Business Management from San Jose State University and also specializes in Marketing, Image consulting, and is a certified Life-Career Coach. 
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