Article clinically reviewed by Dr. Gavin Chan (MBBS, Esthetician, Liposuction)
Templestowe Lower and Berwick Clinics
doctor Gavin Chan has experience in intensive care, anesthesia and emergency medicine. Since 2004, Dr. Chan provides cosmetic procedures including wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, liposuction, fat transfer, skin needling and laser treatments. He is a medical trainer for various dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections.see more information
Upper lip lines occur due to;
- Skin aging due to loss of collagen and elastin.
- Wrinkling of the skin due to contraction of the muscles surrounding the mouth.
- Environmental factors, particularly exposure to UV rays. Smoking can also accelerate the formation of lip lines, but upper lip lines occur in
Non-surgical cosmetic procedures such asdermal fillers,wrinkle injectionsylaser treatmentsit can improve your youth and overall appearance. In addition to injectable fillers and laser treatment, a consistent skin care routine and lifestyle changes can prevent lip lines.
What causes lip wrinkles?
Thin vertical lines can occur for many reasons, including environmental or lifestyle factors.
Aging
Skin is made of protein building blocks such as collagen and elastin, designed to keep the skin firm and plump. As we age, these proteins naturally break down along with the reduction of the skin's natural oils, resulting in skin thinning and loss of volume. This can make the overall appearance of your lips smaller, as the red border of your lips is flattened and less defined.
repetitive motion
Repetitive daily facial movements such as talking, eating, smiling, pouting and frowning contribute significantly to lip lines. Over time, these expressions can deepen the lines by contracting the muscle that surrounds the mouth (Orbicularis oris).
Pursing your lips from smoking isn't the only damage that adds lines to your upper lip. The nicotine in cigarettes has adverse effects that deprive the skin of antioxidants, oxygen and nutrients.
sun exposure
Sun damage is synonymous with aging and is an undeniable factor in how vertical lines on your upper lip form. UV rays penetrate the cellular structure of the upper lip skin and can affect the growth of dermal cells and DNA. Sun damage is also cumulative, so the more exposure there is, the more defined your vertical lines will be.
alcohol consumption
Skin cells thrive on hydration. The main side effect of alcohol consumption is dehydration and your skin is the first place to show this. Alcohol can also cause inflammation that accelerates aging and can make you look red and puffy.
Drink from straws or bottles
Pursing the lips when drinking through straws also affects the skin. This makes it easy to create lines and wrinkles on the lips.
What is the best treatment for wrinkles above the lips?
The best treatment for stubborn lip lines will depend on your specific concerns. Seeking the advice of a qualified physician should be the first step in choosing a treatment. This can help you achieve the desired result.
The best treatment for lip wrinkles includes:
- Dermal filler injections
- anti wrinkle treatment
- laser resurfacing
dermal fillers
dermal fillersProvides immediate results and helps reduce the lines that form on the lip. It also increases volume in the face, which gives it a youthful appearance. Dermal filler can be administered with a blunt cannula or a needle. At the Victorian Cosmetic Institute, we prefer to use blunt cannulas.
wrinkle injections
wrinkle injectionstreats the lines of the upper lip, reducing the ability to move the muscle that surrounds the entire lip. Using injectable treatments to target the muscles results in muscle relaxation and softens the appearance of lip lines.
This blocks nerve signals that contract with movement and aims to minimize the future development of wrinkles.
laser resurfacing
Skin rejuvenation is a very effective treatment for upper lip lines. Lasers remove dead skin cells, help stimulate new collagen, improve skin texture and create a tightening effect. The recommended treatment for removing the upper lip line is erbium laser.
How can I reduce my lip lines naturally?
Using preventative practices can minimize lip lines over time.
For best results, we suggest you introduce a combination of methods to help reduce their appearance.
Minimize the use of straws
Drinking through straws and directly from the tops of bottles requires you to purse your lips around a smaller object. These actions will be defined in the lip lines and can be avoided by drinking from objects with wider openings such as a glass or mug.
Avoid smoking
Smoking has terrible side effects for the skin, especially around the mouth. The movement of the sucking muscle caused by inhaling nicotine restricts the flow of oxygen and other vital nutrients around the mouth. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce the development of lip wrinkles.
Use sunscreen
Protecting your skin is crucial to fighting the signs of aging. A daily commitment to apply sunscreenit will provide a barrier between your skin and the sun's ultraviolet rays. We recommend opting for a sunscreen with at least SPF30, but SPF 50+ is better. It's best to find a formula that works well for your skin. Consider looking at the different options available to find one that suits your skin type.
Keep the lip area moisturized
Using moisturizing creams and balms to maintain hydration will counteract the natural loss of moisture we experience as we age. Dressinglip treatmentshow lip balms and lip balms can help hydrate the lip area and reduce the development of wrinkles. It's best to find one with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter or vitamin E for long-lasting hydration.
Best skin care to use after upper lip wrinkle treatment
After your upper lip treatment, we suggest following a specific skin care routine to keep your skin young, nourished and hydrated.
retinol
retinol, you vitamin A, is one of the best topical solutions to treat the problems of aging. Any benefits of retinolinclude:
- Minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
- Promotes collagen production in the skin.
- For the treatment of problems related to acne scars.
- Exfoliates the skin to improve skin tone and texture.
We recommend the Biopelle Retriderm Vitamin A Serumas it is a fast-acting, protein-rich 0.5% retinol serum for overall skin rejuvenation. Due to the low concentration, it is ideal for those who are increasing their tolerance for vitamin A.
Serum
Serums are specific treatments that penetrate the deepest layers of the skin. Serums are used after cleansing and toning and can help promote healthy skin. When trying to find the best face serumFor your skin type and concern, we recommend:
- Focus on one skin problem at a time
- Patch test the product before use
- Introduce it slowly into your routine, especially if it contains active ingredients like vitamin C or retinol.
We recommend the PRESCRIBEDsolutions Urbane Renewal Triple Action Antioxidant Serumas it increases skin luminosity, protects and repairs the skin. It is a suitable addition to any skin care routine and can be used twice a day.
moisturizer
Moisturizers provide the upper layers of the skin with much-needed hydration. Using a moisturizer twice a day is ideal for reducing visible dehydration. When trying to find the the best moisturizer for your skin, focus on:
- Find one that meets your concerns
- The right formula for your skin type.
- If you need one for day and night
We recommend the Aspect Dr Resveratrol Moisturizing Creamas it helps stimulate collagen, repairs and hydrates the skin. This moisturizer is especially ideal for those with mature skin, as it helps fight the signs of aging and restores skin's firmness.
sunscreen
Applying sunscreen daily creates a strong defense against the development of wrinkles and fine lines. We recommend that you choose onebroad spectrum sunscreen🇧🇷 Some things to consider when using sunscreen:
- Is the formula suitable for me and my skin type?
- Is it comfortable on the skin?
- Am I reapplying when needed?
Not sure which skin care products to use? You can schedule a skin consultation with our highly trained and experienced skin therapists who can advise which products suit your skin type.
Best place to remove upper lip wrinkles in Melbourne
Since 2005, Dr. Gavin Chan and his team of highly trained and experienced cosmetic doctors and beauty nurses from the Victorian Cosmetic Institute have helped thousands of patients eliminate upper lip lines.
At your appointment, the esthetician or cosmetic nurse will assess your face, understand the details of your concerns, and recommend appropriate treatment options. We pride ourselves on offering upper lip wrinkle treatments that reduce lip wrinkles, restore volume and redefine the natural lip line.
Call our friendly customer service team to make an appointment today at 1300 863 824 or book your appointment or online book.