Lip lines are small, vertical creases that collect around the mouth and especially above the upper lip. These lines are often caused by general aging, but may also be the result of cigarette smoking, repetitive facial movements, and excessive sun exposure. Aside from wearing sun block and avoiding cigarettes, there is little that can be done to prevent the formation of these lines; however, there are several ways to help diminish their appearance. Cosmetic procedures such as dermal filling and dermabrasion are popular choices. For those who want to avoid the harsher procedures, there are also several gentle and natural alternatives, such as skin needling and homemade facial scrubs and moisturizers made with fruits and essential oils.
Though prevention is often the best solution, for those who have already developed lip lines, there are many ways to help diminish or erase them. Cosmetic procedures are common for this type of wrinkling and can include laser resurfacing and dermabrasion, dermal fillers, and chemical peels. Laser resurfacing is a procedure that uses high-energy beams to help even out the appearance of the skin. Dermabrasion is the process of scraping away the surface of the skin in order to expose and force the growth of new skin.
Like dermabrasion, chemical peels help remove lip lines by clearing away a layer of skin. Unlike dermabrasion, which uses mechanical methods for removing skin, chemical peels use substances such as glycolic, trichloroacetic, and alpha hydroxy acids. Dermal fillers are injections of natural substances placed under the skin to make the lip area look fuller and smoother. Collagen, hyaluronic acid, and fat from the patient's body can all be used as filler.
Some people prefer to use less drastic means to get rid of their lip lines. In this case, natural remedies may be used as an alternative. Skin needling is a popular non-surgical treatment. This procedure consists of gently pricking the skin with a roller that bears small, sharp needles. Like dermabrasion and chemical peels, skin needling is said to work by forcing the skin to produce fresh cells, thus filling in small wrinkles.
Many homemade recipes can be used to help reduce the look of lip lines. Many of these recipes include essential oils like carrot seed, clary sage, and patchouli. For slightly deeper lines, the juice of lemons, limes, and oranges may be used to help clear away dead skin cells.