The Many Types of Smiles and What They Mean

A smile might seem simple, but science says it’s one of the most complex facial expressions we use. While many people think of smiles as either “real” or “fake,” research shows there are multiple types each with unique social, emotional, and even biological purposes.

Why We Smile

Smiles aren’t always about joy. They can:

• Convey friendliness or social connection

• Mask discomfort or nervousness

• Influence or reinforce others’ behavior

• Assert dominance or pride

• Smooth over awkward situations

• Signal approval, acknowledgment, or politeness

1. Duchenne Smile

Often called the “real” smile, the Duchenne smile involves both the mouth and eyes. Wrinkles sometimes called crow’s feet form around the eyes as the cheek muscles lift.

• Typically linked to positive emotions

• Can also appear in moments of intense, non-joyful emotions like frustration

• Perceived as more persuasive, attractive, and likable

2. Reward Smile

These smiles act like positive feedback reinforcing pleasure for both the sender and receiver.
Characteristics:

• Even, symmetrical lift of the cheeks and lips

• Slight eyebrow raise

• Often used with babies, during shared jokes, or in response to someone else’s smile

3. Affiliative Smile

A friendly, “safe to approach” expression used to foster social bonds.
Characteristics:

• Thin, wide upturn of the mouth

• Pressed lips, usually without showing teeth

• Signals cooperation, politeness, or appeasement

4. Dominance Smile

A smile that establishes power or superiority rather than warmth.
Characteristics:

• Lopsided, sneer-like expression

• Raised eyebrows and lifted cheeks

• May wrinkle the nose or upper lip, similar to expressions of contempt
  These smiles often elicit discomfort or defensiveness in others.

5. Distress Smile

Sometimes, we smile when we feel anything but happy.

• Used to mask negative emotions

• Can appear in high-pressure customer service jobs, during awkward encounters, or when trying to “fake it until you make it”

• Often a coping mechanism in uncomfortable situations

When a Lopsided Smile Is a Health Concern

While some asymmetrical smiles are intentional such as with dominance expressions sudden facial drooping can signal a medical emergency.
Possible causes include:

• Bell’s palsy (temporary facial nerve paralysis)

• Stroke (often with speech changes or weakness in the arms/legs)

• Brain tumor or other neurological conditions

Seek immediate care if a lopsided smile appears suddenly, especially with other stroke symptoms.

Smiles Across Cultures

Smiles aren’t interpreted the same way everywhere. In the U.S., frequent smiling is common and culturally encouraged, but in some countries, certain smiles may seem insincere or inappropriate. Understanding these nuances can help in cross-cultural communication.

Bottom line

Your smile can be a tool for connection, a mask for emotion, or a subtle show of power. Recognizing the different types can help you better understand others and yourself.

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