The 4 most important facial expressions that can help you recognize a narcissist

They are social and nice. You don't notice it at first. Recognizing a narcissist can be difficult, especially because they often come across as charming and charismatic. However, there are certain facial expressions and body language that can help you identify a narcissist. Handy, because this way you won't be manipulated anymore. Life is far too enjoyable for that kind of nasty types, right?

These subtle signals can help you better recognize someone with narcissistic traits, even when they are being oh so nice and charming to you. Focus especially on their mouth and eyes.

Here are the main facial expressions that are often associated with narcissistic behavior:

1. The smile

One of the most recognizable facial expressions of a narcissist is the so-called superior and especially fake smile. This is not a friendly or sincere big smile, but rather an expression that radiates arrogance or contempt. It seems as if they are laughing at something you don't understand, or as if they feel elevated above you and the situation. They really look down on you.

This smile is often used subtly and occurs when the narcissist feels superior or when they want to belittle someone silently. This little smile can be an expression of their sense of self-importance and contempt for others. A narcissist often feels better than the rest, and you can see this reflected in their smile. This self-satisfied look can be subtle or clearly present. The eyes may be semi-squinted, the corners of the mouth slightly upturned, while they enjoy their own sense of superiority. Brrr. Watch out.

2. Bored look

Narcissists can quickly become bored if a conversation or situation does not revolve around them. This boredom is reflected in their facial expression. Their eyes may seem empty and uninterested, or they constantly look around as if there is something better than the conversation they are in. If it doesn't revolve around them, they are not interested.

When a narcissist is bored, it is often because they feel that what you are saying or doing does not give them enough attention or admiration. For example, when you talk about yourself for a moment. And then they start looking at their phone or yawning.

3. Surprised look

Narcissists can sometimes adopt a quasi-nonchalant surprised facial expression, but this often feels like a performance. This expression can be used to present themselves in a good light or to show that they are ‘surprised’ by something you say, while in reality, they are not really interested. They play along with you. But they hardly listen.

These kinds of exaggerated, staged facial expressions are often used to elicit reactions from others. They do it to steer the conversation or manipulate the situation, without caring at all.

4. Restless eyes

Although narcissists often come across as confident, their eyes can sometimes betray that they feel restless, especially when confronted with something that threatens their sense of coolness. This often manifests in rapid blinking or avoiding eye contact at crucial moments. A bit almost autistic, you could say.

Especially when they don't feel comfortable, you will notice this. Their eyes may dart nervously back and forth or quickly jump from one point to another to hide their discomfort. They don't dare to look you in the eye.