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Disgust

Universal3 Action Unitsbilateralsustained duration

The nose is wrinkled and the upper lip is raised.

FACS Breakdown

change_history
AU 9Nose Wrinkler

Central to disgust expression, pulls up center of upper lip

noseeasy difficultyVoluntary
Muscle: Levator labii superioris alaeque nasi
sentiment_dissatisfied
AU 15Lip Corner Depressor

Creates frown or sad expression

moutheasy difficultyVoluntary
Muscle: Depressor anguli oris
expand_less
AU 16Lower Lip Depressor

Exposes lower teeth, contributes to disgust

mouthmoderate difficultyVoluntary
Muscle: Depressor labii inferioris

△ Practice Tip

The action centers on AU 9. Imagine smelling something foul to activate the nose wrinkler.

Common Confusion: Anger vs. Disgust

Both are negative expressions but anger is characterized by AU 4 and AU 23, while disgust centers on AU 9.

Brow Movement
Lowered and drawn together (AU 4)
May be slightly lowered but not the focus
Nose
Not typically involved
Nose wrinkler is central (AU 9)
Lip Position
Pressed together tightly (AU 23)
Upper lip raised (AU 9 contribution)
DISTINGUISHING ACTION UNITS
AU 9AU 23

Quick Stats

TypeUniversal
Symmetrybilateral
Durationsustained
Action Units3

AU Summary

AU 9AU 15AU 16

Similar Expressions

sentiment_dissatisfiedSadness
20%
sentiment_satisfiedHappiness
0%
boltAnger
0%
mood_badFear
0%
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All Expressions

sentiment_satisfied Happinesssentiment_dissatisfied Sadnessbolt Angermood_bad Fearcircle Surpriseclose Disgustexpand_more Contemptchange_history Prideexpand_less Shame & Embarrassment