A genuine smile that involves the eyes is often referred to as a "Duchenne smile" or "genuine smile." Here are some signs that a person is genuinely smiling with their eyes:
Crows feet: Genuinely smiling individuals often have "crow's feet" or "laugh lines" around their eyes. These are the small wrinkles that appear at the corners of the eyes when someone is smiling genuinely.
Eye squinting: When someone is genuinely smiling, their eye muscles contract, causing a slight squint or narrowing of the eyes. This is often referred to as "eye crinkling."
Upper cheeks rise: A genuine smile engages the muscles in the upper cheeks, causing them to rise. This can create a noticeable lift in the skin around the eyes.
Dilated pupils: Positive emotions, such as happiness or joy, can cause the pupils to dilate slightly. Dilated pupils can be an indication of genuine happiness.
Symmetry: A genuine smile is usually symmetrical on both sides of the face. Both corners of the mouth and both eyes show the same level of engagement.
Duration: A genuine smile tends to last longer than a forced or fake smile. If the smile fades gradually rather than abruptly, it may indicate authenticity.
Facial expressions: A genuine smile is often accompanied by other facial expressions, such as raised eyebrows or a relaxed forehead. These expressions help convey the sincerity of the smile.
Engagement: When someone is genuinely smiling, their whole face lights up with positive energy, and their eyes appear lively and engaged.
It's important to note that while these signs can indicate a genuine smile, people's expressions can vary based on cultural norms, personality, and individual differences. Some people may naturally show more eye engagement during a smile, while others may not. Observing a person's overall body language and context can also provide additional clues about the authenticity of their smile. The best way to understand if someone is genuinely smiling with their eyes is through genuine interactions and getting to know the person better over time.