"V-shape face" describes a facial contour that narrows from the cheekbones towards the chin. In Japan and across Asia, hand-based face lifting techniques have grown popular as a way to care for the face and jawline without equipment. This article explains what Japan V-shaped face lifting involves and what to expect if you want to learn it.
What is Japan V-shaped face lifting?
Japan V-shaped face lifting uses the hands, not tools or machines. It is non-surgical and needle-free. Practitioners work with the muscles and contours of the face using structured sequences of pressing, lifting and gliding movements, usually along the jawline, cheeks, temples and around the eyes.
Two terms often appear in this area:
- Korugi: a sculpting-style approach that works firmly and precisely along the facial structure.
- Kogao: literally "small face", a style focused on a balanced, compact-looking facial contour.
What a typical session covers
| Step | What happens |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Clean skin, clean hands and a suitable cream or oil |
| Warm-up | Gentle movements to relax the face and neck |
| Lifting sequence | Structured lifting movements along the jawline, cheeks and temples |
| Finishing | Light strokes towards the neck and a calm close |
Facial anatomy matters
Good technique starts with understanding the face: the main muscles, the bone structure underneath and the proportions that make a face look balanced. This is why courses spend time on anatomy before the hands-on sequence. It helps you apply movements in the right place and with appropriate pressure.
Safety basics
- Do not practise over broken or inflamed skin, active acne, rashes or sunburn.
- Check with a doctor first if you have a skin condition, facial pain, a recent injury or a recent cosmetic procedure such as fillers.
- Pressure should never be painful.
- If you practise on someone else, ask about these points first and keep your hands and products hygienic.
Keep expectations realistic
Many people enjoy face lifting techniques as a relaxing part of their skincare routine. Results vary from person to person.
Learn the techniques properly
Future Institute's Japan V-Shaped Face Lifting Course covers the Korugi and Kogao concepts, facial anatomy and proportions, step-by-step lifting sequences by hand, precautions and hygiene, with hands-on practice on yourself and your classmates under a trainer's guidance.
