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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Michelle Spear

Can you spot if someone is faking a smile? Here’s how to tell

Humans are remarkably good at detecting emotional authenticity - (Getty Images)

You’ve probably heard the claim that it takes more muscles to frown than to smile. It’s usually framed as a feel-good reason to turn your frown upside down – less effort, more joy. But anatomically, the numbers don’t quite add up.

We’ve all seen it – the smile that doesn’t quite reach the eyes. From awkward family photos to strained workplace pleasantries, our brains often detect that something is off long before we consciously realise why.

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