Glabella


The glabella, in humans, is the area of skin between the eyebrows and above the nose. The term also refers to the underlying bone that is slightly depressed, and joins the two brow ridges. It is a cephalometric landmark that is just superior to the nasion.

Etymology

The term for the area is derived from the Latin, "smooth", feminine of glabellus, "hairless".

Function

The glabella is a key anatomical landmark used in craniofacial measurements, including interglabellar distance, which helps assess facial proportions in aesthetics and surgery. It also contributes to facial expressions through the action of muscles like the frontalis and orbicularis oculi.

In medical science

The skin of the glabella may be used to measure skin turgor in suspected cases of dehydration by gently pinching and lifting it. When released, the glabella of a dehydrated patient tends to remain extended, rather than returning to its normal shape.