Lip contour wrinkles: Causes and Treatment with Hyaluronic Acid

Smiling, laughing, and active facial expressions are all signs of a bright, emotional life. However, the area around the mouth is the first to take the hit of time. Fine vertical lines, which in cosmetology are called "smoker's lines," can appear even at a relatively young age. They not only visually add several years but also make the facial expression look more stern or tired, and applying lipstick turns into a real problem because of its bleeding.

Modern methods of cosmetology allow for effectively managing such traces without resorting to radical measures. Today, hyaluronic acid for the lips and the perioral area is the recognized standard for restoring youth. It allows for returning smoothness and natural volume to the skin.

What Causes Lip Contour Wrinkles?

The appearance of wrinkles in this zone is caused by a combination of several factors. Understanding the causes helps not only to effectively perform treatment of wrinkles around the lips but also to competently build prevention.

• Anatomical features. The skin around the mouth is practically devoid of a subcutaneous fat layer. With age, the orbicularis oris muscle constantly contracts, and the thinned skin does not have time to restore its shape, which leads to the formation of creases.
• Decrease in collagen and elastin levels. With age (after 25–30 years), the natural synthesis of these proteins slows down. Tissues lose elasticity, and wrinkles around the mouth become deeper and more noticeable.
• Photoaging. Under the influence of sunlight, natural hyaluronic acid in the dermis is destroyed. If SPF protection is neglected, the skin becomes dehydrated and covered with a network of fine wrinkles.
• Bad habits. The main enemy of the periodontal zone is smoking. Constant exposure to nicotine and specific lip tension cause premature destruction of dermal fibers.
• Hormonal changes. A decrease in estrogen levels during menopause is instantly reflected in the condition of the skin, making it drier and more fragile.

Hyaluronic Acid Treatment for Lip Wrinkles

Today, a fast and safe way to return lost moisture and volume to tissues is injection rejuvenation. Hyaluronic acid has a unique ability to hold water molecules, creating a kind of "hydro-frame" under the skin.

In our clinic in Chicago, for this delicate zone, we use Juvederm Ultra Smile - a specialized filler for eliminating wrinkles around the lips. This drug was developed specifically for working with the mobile zone of the mouth. Its soft, plastic structure allows it to fill even the smallest wrinkles while maintaining absolutely natural facial expressions.

How is the procedure performed?

1. Consultation and disinfection. A specialist assesses the condition of the skin and selects the necessary dosage of the drug.
2. Anesthesia. For maximum comfort, a topical anesthetic cream is applied (although Juvederm Ultra Smile already contains lidocaine to minimize sensations).
3. Introduction of the drug. With the help of the finest needle, the filler is injected directly under the wrinkle, literally "pushing" it out from the inside.
4. Light massage. To make the contours look flawless, the esthetician evenly distributes the gel. A session takes about 30–40 minutes, and the effect is visible almost immediately.

Who Is a Good Candidate for the Procedure?

Treatment of wrinkles around the lips with the help of fillers is suitable for many patients. We recommend this procedure if you have noticed:

• vertical lines above the upper lip (smoker's wrinkles);
• drooping of the corners of the mouth, which gives the face a "sad" expression;
• loss of natural lip volume or clarity of their contour;
• dryness and peeling of the skin in the area of the nasolabial triangle;
• deep creases into which decorative cosmetics begin to settle.

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid for Perioral Area

Why is hyaluronic acid for eliminating wrinkles around the lips considered the best choice? Here are several key arguments.

• Biocompatibility. Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of our skin, so the risk of allergic reactions or rejection is practically reduced to zero.
• Instant result. You do not need to wait for weeks-smoothing occurs immediately after the injection.
• Long-lasting effect. Thanks to modern Juvederm formulas, the result lasts from 6 to 12 months.
• Improvement of skin quality. In addition to filling wrinkles, hyaluronic acid deeply moisturizes the dermis, stimulating the synthesis of its own collagen.
• Reversibility. If you are not satisfied with the result, the filler can be completely dissolved with a special enzyme, which makes the procedure as safe as possible.

At Bella Sana Med Spa in Chicago (Des Plaines), we understand that working with the face requires surgical precision and artistic vision. Our specialists use only certified premium-class products and the latest injection techniques, which guarantees safety and the absence of an "overfilled" effect. We strive to ensure that after visiting us, you maintain your individuality and natural beauty.