How to Treat Wrinkles Above Lips, per Dermatologists
Have you ever been bothered by the fine lines that appear above your lips? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Fine lines and wrinkles in this area often appear as we age—and they can show up even sooner if you have certain habits. The good news is that there are many effective ways you can try to reduce or even eliminate wrinkles above the lips, ranging from natural treatments, skincare, to medical options.
This article is based on insights from dermatologists, so you can choose the right and safe method according to your skin’s needs.
Best Skincare Ingredients to Reduce Wrinkles Above the Lips
Noticing fine lines forming above your lips? You’re not alone. These small vertical lines—often called “lip lines” or “smoker’s lines”—are common signs of aging. Thankfully, the right skincare can help smooth their appearance. Here are the most effective ingredients to look for in your skincare routine:
- Retinol (Vitamin A)
Retinol is a powerhouse when it comes to anti-aging. It helps speed up cell turnover and boosts collagen production—two things your skin needs to stay firm and smooth. Start slowly (2–3 times a week) and pair it with a good moisturizer to avoid irritation.1Foxtale: Power of Retinol and Sunscreen: The Ultimate Anti-Aging Duo - Peptides
Peptides support your skin’s natural repair process. They help improve elasticity and strengthen the skin barrier, making the area around your lips appear firmer and more youthful. Great for sensitive skin types that may not tolerate retinol well.2Healthline: Peptides and Your Skin Care Routine - Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid works like a moisture magnet. It deeply hydrates and plumps the skin, helping to smooth out fine lines and give your lips and surrounding area a fuller, more youthful look. Look for serums or lip treatments that contain this ingredient.3Laboratoire ENEOMEY: Hyaluronic Acid: Deep Hydration for Plump, Glowing Skin - Vitamin C
This brightening antioxidant helps fade sun damage and protect your skin from free radicals that cause premature aging. Using a Vitamin C serum in the morning (under your sunscreen) can help improve skin tone and reduce the depth of wrinkles over time. - Exfoliating Acids (AHA/BHA)
Gentle exfoliation using alpha-hydroxy acids (like glycolic acid) or beta-hydroxy acids (like salicylic acid) helps remove dead skin cells and smooth the skin’s surface. Use 2–3 times a week to keep the area above your lips looking fresh and renewed. - Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
No anti-aging routine is complete without sunscreen. UV rays break down collagen and deepen wrinkles. Apply SPF daily—even when you’re indoors near windows—to prevent lip lines from getting worse.
How to Prevent Wrinkles Above Lips?
Wrinkles above the lips can be a concern that affects many people’s confidence. This area is quite sensitive and often the first to show signs of aging. However, there’s no need to worry! There are plenty of ways to prevent wrinkles above the lips and keep the skin looking smooth and youthful.
It’s important to know that preventing these wrinkles doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a few simple adjustments to your daily skincare routine, you can start seeing results. So, if you want to maintain smooth, wrinkle-free skin around your lips, check out these easy steps you can try!
1. Avoid the Habit of Pressing or Puckering Your Lips
One of the main causes of wrinkles above the lips is a small habit we often do unconsciously—like puckering our lips when drinking through a straw or applying lip balm.
According to Dr. Marisa Garshick, a certified dermatologist from New York, this movement can create expression lines that eventually turn into permanent wrinkles. The same applies when you frequently blow, kiss, or even smoke—these actions all involve the same muscles and place repeated pressure on the area above the lips.4Byrdie: How to Treat Wrinkles Above Your Lips, According to Dermatologists
Also Read: How Long Does Retinol Take to Work On Skin?
Simple tip: Try drinking directly from a glass and reduce the use of straws. This small step can help prevent fine lines from deepening.
2. Try Retinoids to Reduce Wrinkles
If you’re looking for a topical solution that has proven effectiveness, retinoids are the answer. Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A that have long been known to stimulate collagen production, speed up skin cell regeneration, and help diminish fine lines, including those above the lips.5Malwina Zasada, Elżbieta Budzisz, Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments, National Library of Medicine, 2019.
Dr. Marisa Garshick explains that regular use of retinoids can help improve skin texture and fade wrinkles over time. However, since the skin above the lips tends to be more sensitive, you need to start gradually.
Usage tip: Apply retinoid 1-2 times a week initially, then gradually increase the frequency based on your skin’s tolerance. Don’t forget to use a moisturizer afterward and always protect your skin with sunscreen in the morning.
3. Never Forget Sunscreen
Sunscreen is the most important step in an anti-aging skincare routine. UV exposure can speed up the appearance of wrinkles, especially in sensitive areas like around the lips. Therefore, wearing sunscreen daily not only protects your skin from damage but also helps prevent deeper wrinkles.6Glo Skin & Medspa: Why Sunscreen Is So Critical For Skin Health
Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and ensure the label says “broad-spectrum” to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it every morning, even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors.
4. Pay Attention to Your Lifestyle
Your lifestyle plays a significant role in maintaining youthful and healthy skin. Habits like smoking can accelerate the appearance of wrinkles, especially above the lips. Smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and damages collagen, causing fine lines to appear more quickly.
Additionally, drinking from straws too often can also trigger the formation of fine lines due to the repeated movement of the lips. Replace this habit by drinking directly from a glass. And of course, make sure you’re getting enough sleep, drinking plenty of water, and eating a nutritious diet to keep your skin firm and hydrated from the inside out.
5. Do Facial Massage with Natural Oils
Facial massage with natural oils can be a fun and effective way to keep your skin supple and prevent wrinkles, especially around the lips. Oils such as coconut, olive, or grape seed are rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, which help protect the skin from free radical damage and premature aging signs.
Moreover, facial massage can boost blood circulation and stimulate collagen production, keeping the skin firm and elastic. Try the Gua Sha technique with a smooth stone tool to help tighten the skin while reducing facial muscle tension.
Gently apply the oil and let it absorb overnight for optimal results. Your skin will feel softer and look fresher the next day.
6. Keep Your Skin Hydrated
Well-hydrated skin is key to preventing and reducing wrinkles, especially in sensitive areas like above the lips. Dry skin loses its elasticity, making fine lines more visible.
Using a daily moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid can help draw and lock moisture into the skin, making it more plump and hydrated. For oily skin, choose a moisturizer with glycerin, which can attract water without clogging pores. For dry skin, face oils rich in essential fatty acids are ideal for strengthening the skin’s protective layer.
If you’re experiencing hyperpigmentation in the lip area, consider using products with azelaic acid or niacinamide at night to even out skin tone and boost hydration.
7. Use Collagen Serums to Boost Skin Elasticity
Collagen is an essential protein that helps keep skin firm, elastic, and smooth. However, collagen production decreases with age, leading to sagging skin and the appearance of wrinkles. One effective way to care for your skin is by using a collagen serum.
Serums containing collagen work by stimulating your skin’s natural collagen production, improving its structure, and enhancing its resistance to damage. Using collagen serum at night after cleansing your face will provide optimal results, as your skin absorbs active ingredients more effectively while you sleep. Don’t forget to lock in moisture with a moisturizer after applying the serum.
Although collagen serums are highly beneficial, the best results are achieved when used alongside other treatments like sunscreen and proper hydration.
8. Enhance Your Routine with Retinol for Clearer Skin
Retinol, a potent form of vitamin A, is one of the most widely used ingredients in anti-aging skincare. Retinol works by stimulating skin cell turnover and increasing collagen production, which is crucial for keeping skin firm and elastic.
When used regularly, retinol can help diminish wrinkles, improve skin texture, and maintain smooth skin. However, retinol should be used cautiously, especially on sensitive skin. Dr. Alicia Zalka recommends using retinol one to three times a week, especially in the area above the lips, as the skin in this area is thinner and more prone to irritation.
If your skin is sensitive or you prefer natural ingredients, bakuchiol may be a gentler alternative with similar benefits.
9. Consider Investing in Red Light Therapy Masks to Reduce Wrinkles Above the Lips
Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses LED light at specific wavelengths to treat the skin. This therapy works by penetrating the skin layers to stimulate healing processes and improve blood circulation, which in turn helps improve skin texture.
Dr. Alicia Zalka explains that red light can reduce inflammation beneath the skin, which may damage collagen and elastin. This therapy has proven effective in reducing wrinkles, including those around the lips, as well as improving the appearance of dull skin and fine lines.7Byrdie: How to Treat Wrinkles Above Your Lips, According to Dermatologists
Regular use of a red light therapy mask, especially at night, can offer long-term benefits in rejuvenating the skin. This therapy is perfect for those who want to care for their skin without invasive medical procedures.
10. Use Vitamin C to Reduce Wrinkles Above the Lips
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is an excellent antioxidant for the skin. The primary sources of skin damage, such as free radicals from UV exposure, pollution, and natural bodily processes, can damage collagen and elastin. This causes the skin to lose its firmness, triggering fine lines and making wrinkles more noticeable.
In addition to protecting the skin from external damage, Vitamin C also promotes collagen production. This is vital for keeping the skin firm and elastic. Moreover, Vitamin C helps brighten the skin and even out the skin tone, making the skin appear fresher and more radiant.8Clarins UK: Treatment For Wrinkles Above The Lip & How To Rejuvenate Your Mouth
For maximum results, choose a stable Vitamin C product, such as one containing ascorbic acid or ascorbate. Apply it in the morning to better protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
11. Know When to Visit a Professional
While home treatments like moisturizers, sunscreen, and anti-aging products can help maintain healthy skin, sometimes these treatments are not enough to handle deeper wrinkles. Dr. Alicia Zalka advises that early treatment can provide more optimal results and prevent wrinkles from worsening. As you age, your skin loses collagen and elastin, two main components responsible for the formation of fine lines.
If you start noticing wrinkles above your lips, even if they are minimal, it might be a sign that your skin needs more attention. For more effective results, consult a dermatologist or licensed beautician. They can help choose the most suitable procedures based on your skin condition and personal needs.
12. Consider Neurotoxin Injections
Botox, or neurotoxin, is one of the popular medical treatments for reducing wrinkles, including around the lips. Its mechanism is quite simple: Botox blocks nerve signals that trigger muscle contractions. This is very effective for wrinkles caused by repeated facial muscle movements, such as puckering the lips, smiling, or drinking from a straw. By relaxing these muscles, Botox helps smooth fine lines around the lips and gives the skin a more even appearance.
According to Dr. Alicia Zalka, Botox can reduce wrinkles caused by repetitive muscle movements, which are often the main cause of fine lines around the lips. As a result, the skin feels fresher and looks younger.
Although this treatment provides quick and effective results, make sure to consult a licensed beautician or dermatologist. It’s important to ensure that the results are natural and suit your skin’s condition.
13. Use Fillers to Reduce Wrinkles
Fillers are a popular aesthetic treatment, especially for addressing wrinkles around the lips. One type of filler often used contains hyaluronic acid. This ingredient works by drawing water into the skin and adding volume, making fine lines around the lips less visible.
Fillers can last between 6 to 12 months, depending on the type and how each individual’s skin responds. The amount of filler needed may also vary, depending on the depth of the wrinkles you want to address. Therefore, it is important to consult a licensed dermatologist to ensure the treatment is done correctly and safely.
In addition to effectively reducing wrinkles, fillers also provide extra hydration and help sagging skin appear fresher and firmer.
14. Try Laser Resurfacing Therapy
Laser resurfacing is one of the most effective medical procedures for addressing wrinkles and other skin concerns, such as acne scars and dark spots. One commonly used technique for treating wrinkles above the lips is fractional ablative laser. This procedure works by damaging the outer skin layer in a controlled manner, which stimulates natural healing processes and collagen production.
Dr. Brendan Camp adds that CO2 lasers are also highly effective for treating fine lines around the lips. The result is firmer skin with smoother wrinkles. Although this procedure is quite effective, recovery can take several days.
In addition to ablative lasers, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) can also be an option for those looking to treat wrinkles and other skin issues, such as hyperpigmentation. IPL uses light with specific wavelengths to rejuvenate the skin.
15. Consider Microneedling
Microneedling is a procedure designed to stimulate collagen production using tiny needles that penetrate the skin layers. This technique is effective for making the skin appear smoother, reducing wrinkles, and addressing other signs of aging.
Dr. Alicia Zalka recommends combining microneedling with PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy or exosome therapy for optimal results. PRP uses the patient’s own blood, rich in platelets, to rejuvenate the skin, while exosome therapy helps accelerate skin tissue repair.
It’s important to perform microneedling only with proper medical tools and under the supervision of a licensed professional to avoid infection risks.
16. Check Your Bone and Dental Health
Bone and dental health may not directly affect the skin, but they have a significant impact on your skin’s appearance, especially around the lips. Dr. Alicia Zalka explains that the bones around the mouth provide structural support for the skin. As you age, a decrease in bone volume can worsen the appearance of wrinkles because the skin loses structural support.
Additionally, poor dental health, such as gum disease or tooth loss, can also affect the skin’s elasticity around the mouth. To maintain bone and dental health, it’s recommended to get regular dental checkups and ensure your body gets enough vitamin D and calcium.
Lip Wrinkle Filler Above Lips: Everything You Need to Know
As we age, the skin around our lips begins to lose its youthful firmness, which can lead to fine lines and wrinkles above the lips. These lines, often referred to as “lip wrinkles” or “smoker’s lines,” can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance. While prevention is key, for those already experiencing these lines, lip wrinkle fillers offer a popular, non-surgical solution. If you’re in your 20s or 30s and wondering about this treatment, here’s everything you need to know.
1. What Are Lip Wrinkle Fillers?
Lip wrinkle fillers are injectable treatments designed to smooth out the lines above the lips by adding volume to the skin. They work by filling in the wrinkles, restoring lost collagen, and plumping the skin.9Cleveland Clinic: Lip Fillers The most common type of filler used for lip wrinkles is hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance in the skin that helps retain moisture and volume.
Dr. Emily Lee, a dermatologist based in New York, explains: “Hyaluronic acid fillers are a great option for those looking to address early signs of aging around the lips. They’re safe, effective, and can provide natural-looking results.”
2. How Do Lip Wrinkle Fillers Work?
Lip wrinkle fillers are injected into the skin using a fine needle. The procedure is typically quick, lasting between 15 and 30 minutes, with minimal downtime. The filler plumps up the skin, smoothing out the wrinkles while maintaining a natural appearance. Most fillers also contain lidocaine, a numbing agent that helps reduce discomfort during the treatment.
The results are immediate, though they may take a few days to fully settle. Depending on the type of filler used, the effects can last anywhere from six months to a year. After that, you may need a touch-up to maintain the smooth, youthful look.
3. Benefits of Lip Wrinkle Fillers
- Non-Surgical: Lip wrinkle fillers are a non-invasive alternative to surgery, making them a great option for those who want to avoid more complex procedures. There’s no need for cuts or stitches, and the recovery time is minimal.
- Natural-Looking Results: When done correctly, lip wrinkle fillers can provide very natural-looking results. A skilled injector will ensure the filler is placed precisely to avoid overfilling and give you a youthful, smooth look.
- Quick and Convenient: The procedure is quick, and you can resume most of your normal activities right after treatment. This makes it a great option for busy people looking for effective results without taking time off work or social events.
- Customizable: Fillers can be tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re looking to smooth out fine lines or restore volume, a skilled practitioner can adjust the treatment to fit your specific concerns.
4. Risks and Considerations
Like any cosmetic treatment, lip wrinkle fillers come with potential risks. Some of the most common side effects include swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection site. These side effects usually go away within a few days.
It’s also important to find a licensed and experienced practitioner to perform the procedure. An unskilled injector can lead to uneven results or complications. Always do your research and consult with a dermatologist or licensed professional before proceeding with any cosmetic treatment.
Conclusion: Is a Lip Wrinkle Filler Right for You?
If you’re in your 20s or 30s and noticing the first signs of lip wrinkles, lip wrinkle fillers could be a fantastic way to restore smoothness and confidence to your smile. While prevention is always better, fillers offer a quick and effective solution for those who want to address existing lines and keep their lips looking youthful.
Remember, always consult with a trusted dermatologist or licensed practitioner to determine if this treatment is right for you. Whether you’re looking to smooth out fine lines or just maintain your youthful appearance, lip wrinkle fillers can provide a safe and effective solution.
Don’t let lip wrinkles hold you back! If you’re ready to explore lip wrinkle fillers or want to learn more about other skincare options, book a consultation with a qualified dermatologist. Take the first step toward smoother, more youthful skin today.
About the Author
M. Hariri is a business and beauty content writer with over five years of experience. He focuses on research-based skincare education and frequently collaborates with dermatologists. His work can be found in various national and international beauty publications.
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