The Fusiform Face Area

The Fusiform Face Area (FFA) is a specialized region in the brain located in the underside of the temporal lobe. Its primary role is to help us recognize and identify faces. When you see someone, the FFA becomes active to process facial features and differences, allowing you to distinguish one person from another. This area works together with other parts of the brain to interpret facial expressions and emotions. Its specialization for faces explains why recognizing individual faces can be effortless, even when other objects are viewed with less clarity.