As we age, wrinkles can appear, including in the area around the mouth. In addition to the natural aging process, factors like lifestyle choices and sun exposure can speed up the formation of these wrinkles. This article explores the causes of wrinkles around the mouth and offers potential treatment options.
Causes of Wrinkles on the Face
Wrinkles form when the skin loses collagen, a protein that helps the skin remain firm and smooth. The reduction of collagen naturally happens as we age, but certain lifestyle habits can also speed up this process.
Some factors that contribute to the early appearance of wrinkles include:
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Genetic predisposition
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Dehydration
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Poor nutrition
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Smoking
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Stress
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UV exposure
Types of Wrinkles Around the Mouth
Several types of wrinkles can develop around the mouth, such as:
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Smile lines: Also known as laugh lines or nasolabial folds, these wrinkles appear along the sides of the mouth and become more pronounced when smiling or laughing.
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Marionette lines: These are vertical lines that extend from the corners of the mouth to the chin. Over time, they can create a sagging or drooping appearance.
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Lipstick lines: These vertical lines around the upper lip, often referred to as "smoker's lines," are commonly seen in individuals who smoke.
How to Treat Wrinkles Around the Mouth with Dermatological Treatments
For mild wrinkles or fine lines, skincare products may provide some relief. However, for deeper wrinkles, dermatological treatments might be necessary. Here are some options your doctor may recommend:
Microneedling
Microneedling involves using a small needle on a dermaroller or microneedling pen to create tiny punctures in the skin. The heat from the tool encourages collagen production, which can help minimize fine lines and improve the texture of the skin.
Recovery time is quick, and noticeable results often emerge after several treatments.
Chemical Peeling
Chemical peels can be an effective method for treating wrinkles around the mouth. By applying phenol-based chemicals, this treatment targets even the deepest fine lines by removing the outer layer of skin, revealing the smoother layer beneath. For optimal results, chemical peels are typically done once a month.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are injected into skin folds to fill in the gaps, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. These fillers are often composed of substances like hyaluronic acid or poly-L-lactic acid, which plump up the skin and smooth out wrinkles.
Botox
Botox involves injecting botulinum toxin to relax facial muscles, which can result in firmer, more youthful skin. While Botox is commonly used for wrinkles around the eyes, it can also be effective for addressing wrinkles on the lips, upper lip, and marionette lines.
Wrinkles in the lip area can sometimes make you appear older than you feel, leading to feelings of insecurity. If you're concerned about wrinkles around your lips, consulting a doctor can help you explore your treatment options. You can also use the consultation feature available on the Ai Care app, which you can download from the App Store or Play Store.
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- dr Hanifa Rahma
Cherney, K. (2020). What Causes Wrinkles Around the Mouth and Can You Treat Them?. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/wrinkles-around-mouth
Brown, Z. (2025). 14 Tips to Treat Wrinkles Around the Mouth, According to Dermatologists. Available from: https://www.byrdie.com/wrinkles-around-the-mouth-5113155
Cleveland Clinic. Marionette Lines. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23028-marionette-lines
Cleveland Clinic. Nasolabial Folds (Smile Lines). Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23027-nasolabial-folds
Cleveland Clinic. Lip Lines. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24343-lip-lines