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 forms of body language that can sometimes occur in people with narcissistic traits. Handy, because this way you won't be manipulated anymore. Life is much too fun 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.

Important to know: you cannot determine whether someone is actually narcissistic just by their facial expression.

These are facial expressions and behaviors that are sometimes associated with narcissistic traits:

1. The smile

A facial expression you might encounter with narcissistic behavior is a superior or self-satisfied smile. This is not a friendly or sincere big smile, but rather an expression that radiates arrogance or contempt. It may seem like they are laughing at something you don't understand, or as if they feel elevated above you and the situation. They can make you feel like they are looking down on you.

This smile is often used subtly and can occur when someone feels superior or wants to belittle someone silently. This small smile can be an expression of self-overestimation and contempt for others. Someone with strong narcissistic traits may consider themselves better than the rest, and this can sometimes be reflected in the way that person looks or smiles. This self-satisfied gaze 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

Someone with strong narcissistic traits may appear less engaged when a conversation or situation does not revolve around him or her. This boredom can become visible in their facial expression. The eyes may seem empty and uninterested, or someone may constantly look around as if there is something better than the conversation they are in.

When someone with narcissistic traits behaves bored, it can happen, for example, when what you say or do does not give them enough attention or admiration. For instance, when you talk about yourself for a moment. Then they may start looking at their phone, looking away, or yawning.

3. Surprised look

People with narcissistic traits may sometimes adopt an exaggeratedly surprised facial expression, but this can feel 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 may be less interested. They participate in the conversation, but do not always listen attentively.

These kinds of exaggerated or feigned facial expressions can be used to elicit reactions from others. They may try to steer the conversation or exert influence over the situation.

4. Restless eyes

Although people with narcissistic traits often come across as confident, their eyes can sometimes betray that they feel restless, especially when confronted with something that threatens their self-image or sense of control. This can manifest in rapid blinking, looking away, or avoiding eye contact at certain moments.

Especially when they do not feel comfortable, you can sometimes notice this. Their eyes may dart nervously back and forth or quickly jump from one point to another. At such moments, they may avoid eye contact or appear visibly more restless.