Milady Esthetics State Board Practice Test 2026 - Free Esthetics Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

The muscle primarily responsible for puckering the lips is the Orbicularis Oris. This muscle is a complex, multi-layered muscle that encircles the mouth and plays a crucial role in various lip movements. It allows for actions such as closing the lips, protruding them (as in kissing), and shaping the lips for speech. The unique structure of the Orbicularis Oris enables fine control over lip actions, making it essential for both expressive communication and functional activities like eating.

In contrast, while the Masseter is involved in chewing and elevating the jaw, the Buccinator plays a key role in compressing the cheeks against the teeth during chewing, and the Zygomaticus is important for smiling. None of these muscles contribute to the specific action of puckering the lips as effectively as the Orbicularis Oris does.