Nostril flaring, the widening of the nostrils, is a common phenomenon many people observe. This action, whether involuntary or voluntary, prompts a common question: is the ability to flare one’s nostrils universal, or is it a unique physiological trait? Understanding this involves delving into the muscular mechanisms and considering whether genetics play a role.
The Muscles Behind Nostril Movement
Nostril movement, including flaring, is controlled by muscles around the nose. The primary muscle involved in widening the nostrils is the nasalis muscle, specifically its alar part, also known as the dilator naris muscle. This muscle originates from the maxilla and inserts into the cartilage near the nostril margin, allowing it to pull the nostrils outward. Another muscle that contributes to nostril widening is the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi, which also elevates the upper lip.
These muscles are innervated by the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII). While the dilator naris muscle helps prevent nostril collapse during inhalation, its conscious control varies significantly among people. The ability to voluntarily engage these specific muscles determines whether someone can intentionally flare their nostrils.
Is It a Genetic Trait?
The ability to voluntarily flare one’s nostrils is often considered an inherited trait, similar to other specific muscular controls like wiggling ears or rolling the tongue. While the muscles necessary for nostril movement are present in everyone, the neural pathways and muscle coordination required for conscious, isolated control appear to be genetically influenced. This suggests a biological predisposition rather than a universally acquired skill.
Estimates suggest that only a minority of the population can voluntarily flare their nostrils, with some sources indicating around 30%. This observation implies that for many, the capacity for deliberate nostril flaring is an innate characteristic. Individuals who possess this ability often exhibit it effortlessly from childhood, highlighting its potential genetic basis. While the presence of these muscles and their general function for breathing are universal, the fine motor control for voluntary flaring is not.
Can You Learn to Flare Your Nostrils?
For individuals who cannot naturally flare their nostrils, the prospect of learning this ability through practice is generally challenging. While the muscles are present, gaining voluntary, isolated control over them requires consistent effort and may not always yield significant results. Some exercises involve attempting to move the nostrils while minimizing the movement of surrounding facial muscles, such as the lips or eyebrows.
Some techniques suggest using fingers to assist the movement initially, then gradually reducing assistance as muscle control improves. However, even with persistent practice, many individuals may only achieve a slight degree of control or none at all. This difficulty reinforces the idea that the ability to voluntarily flare nostrils is largely dependent on an inherent muscular and neurological predisposition, making it a difficult skill to acquire if not naturally present.