Resting Bitch Face Actually Makes You Better, Says Science
Scowl away, ladies.


If Queen Elizabeth II, the OG of resting bitch face, is now officially the longest-reigning monarch in all of the United Kingdom's history, there must be something to it.
Actually, there's now scientific evidence that proves RBF could help make you HBIC. According to Texas Women's University researcher and consultant Rene Paulson, who published a recent article on the topic in Quartz (opens in new tab), those with chronic resting bitch face have a stronger sense of self-awareness—and a better ability to communicate—than their toothier counterparts.
"Women confronted by a world that automatically attaches negative attributes to their non-smiling face must quickly learn how to communicate and also hone a finely-tuned awareness of both our own emotions and the emotions of those around us," she writes. "Women used to being constantly misunderstood focus more on the words someone says, rather than their tone, body cues, or facial expressions, ensuring a more effective flow of information between both parties."
But make no mistake, fighting the good RBF fight has its downsides. As Paulson points out, studies of women in the workplace have shown that serious and assertive behavior is often perceived as a negative, while lighthearted behavior can damage credibility. Yes, just another catch-22 to add to the list.
Gender-norm hurdles notwithstanding, we totally agree with Paulson that women with RBF should embrace it: It's not only a blessing in disguise, but but you've got the Queen and like half of Hollywood on your side.

Lauren is the former beauty editor at Marie Claire. She love to while away the hours at coffee shops, hunt for vintage clothes, and bask in the rough-and-tumble beauty of NYC. She firmly believes that solitude can be a luxury if you’ve got the right soundtrack—that being the Rolling Stones, of course.
-
Sex Toys For Partner Play
If you thought toys were just for me-time, think again.
By Gabrielle Ulubay
-
The Cast of 'Money Heist: Korea - Joint Economic Area': Your Guide
Meet Netflix's new cast of thieves.
By Quinci LeGardye
-
Lawmakers, Activists, and Allies Are Reacting With Fury to 'Roe' Being Overturned
Thousands are taking to Twitter to express their grief and anger.
By Tanya Benedicto Klich
-
The 15 Best Blushes for Every Skin Tone and Season
Powders, liquids, and creams for every preference.
By Samantha Holender
-
What Is Brow Lamination? Eyebrow Experts Weigh In
Brow lamination = like a perm, but for your eyebrows.
By Samantha Holender
-
Hair Toner 101: Colorists Explain What Hair Toning Is and Why It Works
"Anyone with color treated hair should be using toners."
By Samantha Holender
-
The 33 Best Shampoos and Conditioners, According to Marie Claire Editors
Curly hair, fine hair, textured hair—we've got you covered.
By Julia Marzovilla
-
35 Lob Haircuts to Add to Your Mood Board in 2022
A tribute to the long bob, a.k.a. the cut that works on everyone.
By Julia Marzovilla
-
The 12 Best Skin Extractor Tools in 2022
Blackheads, be gone.
By Samantha Holender
-
19 Safe At-Home Keratin Treatments for Frizz-Free Hair
Shiny, silky, satiny.
By Julia Marzovilla
-
The 13 Best Whitening Toothpastes That Work
Say goodbye to yellow stains.
By Tatjana Freund