Unfortunately, many of us struggle with how our faces look when we're simply relaxing, sitting in class, or listening to someone speak. Even though we aren't actually judgmental or standoffish, people often assume we are based solely on our default facial expression. If you've been wondering how to fix resting bitch face (RBF) or how to make your resting face more attractive and approachable, it's time to put that issue to rest. Learning how to change your resting face doesn't mean hiding your true feelings—it's all about subtle adjustments. Here is how to fix RBF and make your resting face far more warm and appealing:
How to Fix RBF: 7 Ways to Make Your Resting Face More Attractive
1. Curve Your Eyebrows
Even though different face shapes look best with specific eyebrow styles, you should consider gently curving them at the arch if you suffer from "resting bitch face." Sharp, angled brows can give your face a harsher, overly intense expression, while rounded rbf eyebrows instantly make your features look softer, friendlier, and more inviting. When styling your brows, aim for a soft arch rather than a severe point, which works hand-in-hand with brightening your eyes with makeup to transform your overall look.
2. Perform Facial Exercises
Don't believe that it's impossible to change the way that your face looks, because you actually can retrain your facial muscles. Taking a few minutes each day to do targeted facial exercises will help you see real progress in softening a tense facial posture. Visit Healthline or Marie Claire to find effective facial workouts that keep your face looking youthful and your smile naturally brighter. Here are three quick exercises to practice daily:
- Jaw Release Stretch: Open your mouth gently and move your jaw from side to side to release facial tension.
- Cheek Lifter: Form an 'O' shape with your lips and smile upwards to build cheek volume.
- Forehead Smoother: Lightly sweep your fingers outward across your forehead to relax frown lines.
3. Smile when Your Eyes Meet Someone else's
Unfortunately, first impressions form fast. Whether you're attending a job interview, networking, or catching the eye of someone special, remember to offer a subtle, genuine smile the moment your eyes connect. If you forget to smile, people might make snap judgments and assume you're upset or disengaged. Even though you could eventually get them to change their mind once they get to know you, they might not give you the chance if your initial expression seems unapproachable.
4. Tilt Your Head when You're Listening
Tilting your head slightly while listening is a subtle non-verbal cue that makes you appear warmer, more curious, and genuinely open. When someone is speaking to you, tilt your head slightly to demonstrate that you are engaged in the conversation, rather than looking like you're judging what they say. It's an effortless body language trick that instantly shifts your resting expression from cold to attentive.
5. Use Open Body Language
Even if your face looks naturally serious or judgmental, you can balance it out effectively by adopting open body language. Avoid standing with your arms tightly crossed or your shoulders slouched, as these positions signal closed-off energy. Instead, lean in slightly when conversing, keep your spine aligned, and keep your hands visible.
| Posture Type | Key Physical Signals | Perceived Impression | | --- | --- | --- | | Closed Posture | Crossed arms, slouched shoulders, downward gaze | Standoffish, distant, or disengaged | | Open Posture | Relaxed shoulders, hands visible, slight forward lean | Approachable, confident, and warm |Combining open posture with cues like tilting your head when listening helps balance your overall presence so people feel instantly comfortable around you.
6. Use Makeup to Brighten Your Eyes
Bright, well-rested eyes naturally make a person look kinder and more energetic. If dark circles or tired eyes are accentuating your RBF, cover up under-eye shadows with a hydrating concealer, and apply a nude or neutral eye pencil along your lower waterline to open up your gaze. Choosing soft, shimmery eyeshadow shades rather than dark, heavy tones lightens your face and nicely complements curving your eyebrows.
7. Don't Stare at Someone Straight on
When maintaining eye contact during a conversation, avoid staring intensely directly into someone's eyes without pause. Instead, practice alternating your focus naturally between their left eye, right eye, and mouth or chin every few seconds. This keeps the interaction feeling natural and comfortable for both of you, preventing your gaze from feeling intimidating. You can read more about effective interpersonal dynamics on Psychology Today.
Even though it's unfair for others to misinterpret your natural face, implementing these easy adjustments can help you appear more friendly and likable at first glance. Since first impressions play a big role in your personal relationships and professional career, learning how to stop resting bitch face gives you greater control over how you connect with others. Do you suffer from "resting bitch face," and which of these tips will you try first?
Related articles
Popular searches
Browse categories
Likes, comments and replies are available on the full version.
View full article & comments →