First things first: the lines around your lips, aka laugh lines, are beautiful. They’re a sign of a life well-lived: one that’s filled with smiles, laughter, and moments of euphoria. And what makes these lines even more fascinating is that they’re natural and human – both a part of life.
However, it’s also okay if you wish to conceal these vertical lines and push the clock a few years back. You deserve to smile beautifully and confidently; if that means seeing fewer lines, then so be it.
Read on as we tackle the ultimate know-how to help you reduce the lines on your lips.
What causes fine lines on the lips?
Like the skin, your lips get their plump structure from collagen, an essential protein naturally produced by our body. However, your body produces less of it as you reach your 20s, and it only speeds up from here on. And when collagen levels drop, your lips lose their natural shape and volume, which causes wrinkles and fine lines.
There are other factors at play, such as the muscle contractions that occur when we smile, speak, or laugh. UV damage, genetics, and unhealthy habits like smoking also cause these creases around the lips.
Read more: Tackle saggy skin and more with Ulthera
How can I reduce fine lines on my lips?
Keep your lips moisturised.
Using a hydrating lip mask or balm helps seal moisture in your lips and reinforce its natural barrier. This can help minimise the appearance of fine lines, which only get worse with dryness as they look more prominent. Hydrating from the inside is also important, so drink at least eight glasses of water daily.
Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate.
Do you know that exfoliating your face helps smooth fine lines? Well, it’s also the same for lip lines! When you exfoliate, you slough away the outer layer of skin that’s full of dry, dead skin. This boosts cell turnover, improves blood circulation, and makes lips smoother and plumper. Gently buff your lips daily using a lip scrub to get rid of dry flakes and dull skin. You can also do this using a clean toothbrush or a damp washcloth. Or you can make a DIY lip scrub by combing honey or coconut oil with sugar!
Use a lip treatment.
Yes, there’s such a thing as retinol for your lips! Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that’s well-loved in the skincare community because of its potent anti-ageing benefits. We recommend using products like Chai’s Rose Quartz Oil treatment, which boosts collagen production and targets lip wrinkles. It boosts hydration and plumps your lips for the perfect pout and is the perfect tool to keep lips looking young and fresh!
Consider investing in lip fillers.
If you have deeper lip lines, it may be time to consider investing in lip fillers. Injectable fillers, typically those that contain hyaluronic acid, can plump your lips and treat fine lines and wrinkles. Fillers literally fill in the creases in your skin to reduce their appearance, leaving you with a softer, smoother complexion. Not to mention, you can see the results instantly after the procedure!
If you want longer-lasting results, you can opt for Botox! It freezes your muscles and keeps them from moving to prevent wrinkles from forming. And like fillers, Botox fills in and smoothens the skin for a more youthful appearance. Hello, younger-looking you!
Read more: Your guide to better skin this year