Smize vs Duchenne Smile

Smize is a deliberate eye-focused technique; Duchenne is the full authentic expression. Smize is a subset of Duchenne activation.

Smize

Tyra Banks' technique — smiling with the eyes while keeping mouth controlled.

  • Eye crinkle without full mouth smile
  • Cheek lift under eyes
  • Controlled lip position
  • Photogenic for models
  • Partial orbicularis oculi activation

Duchenne Smile

Genuine smile engaging both mouth and eyes — the gold standard of authentic joy.

  • Full lip corner elevation
  • Strong eye crinkle
  • Involuntary activation
  • Highest warmth ratings
  • Symmetric in most people

Verdict

Duchenne scores highest on Smile Tracker. Smize works for controlled portraits where mouth position matters.

FAQ

Can you smize without smiling?

Yes — that's the point. Eye engagement without mouth movement defines the smize.

Which scores higher on AI?

Full Duchenne smiles typically score 10–20 points higher than smize-only expressions.