Lip lines

Lips lines are a small, but not insignificant, sign of ageing. They are commonly referred to as “smoker’s lines” (though patients experience these without having ever smoked) or “lipstick lines” due to the way that lipstick tends to bleed into them. They usually form as a result of collagen breaking down in this area – an issue that is often intensified by repetitive movement of the underlying muscles through talking and facial expressions. However, if correctly treated, their appearance can be dramatically lessened.

Lips lines are a small, but not insignificant, sign of ageing. They are commonly referred to as “smoker’s lines” (though patients experience these without having ever smoked) or “lipstick lines” due to the way that lipstick tends to bleed into them. They usually form as a result of collagen breaking down in this area – an issue that is often intensified by repetitive movement of the underlying muscles through talking and facial expressions. However, if correctly treated, their appearance can be dramatically lessened.

Laser resurfacing for lip lines

Laser resurfacing is the gold standard for treating lipstick lines (also known as smoker’s lines). This treatment removes the entire surface of the skin, allowing the skin to regenerate from below. It’s an invasive procedure that required 10-14 days of downtime, but the results are a dramatic improvement in the lines that cannot be achieved as effectively with any other type of treatment.

This patient had a full face laser resurfacing treatment which has delivered significant results across her face and particularly around her mouth.

Treating volume loss

Although lip lines are one of the most common complaints that we hear of in the clinic, treating them in isolation rarely produces a satisfactory result. By the time the lip lines have formed, volume loss has almost invariably occurred in the entire area around the mouth – and often in the cheek as well.

In Action

Take a closer look at how this restoration was achieved

Another option

In some cases however, it is helpful to undertake a more holistic approach to volume restoration: including supplementing volume in the cheeks, to give more ‘lift’ to the face.

In Action

Take a closer look at how this restoration was achieved

Treatment Options

Your treatment plan will be tailored to your individual needs and the results you are looking to achieve.

Full laser resurfacing

Lipstick / smoker’s lines

Cheek filler

Are you ready to start your consultation?

Finding the right treatment for you is the most important factor in ensuring that you are on the correct path to achieve the results you desire. Our pre-consultation enquiry helps us to identify your needs and, ultimately, gets you on the right path to achieving your optimal results.

Patient Testimonials

Lines around the lips are one of the most common complaints that women come to us with. These can be treated permanently with aggressive resurfacing, although a much less invasive option is to simply restore some volume around the area. Hear how Catherine got on with filler injections around the mouth.

Patient Reviews

Hear from our patients about their experience at McKeown Medical.

Common Questions

What are upper lip lines?

Upper lip lines (otherwise known as lipstick lines or smoker’s lines) are small vertical wrinkles on the upper lip, below the nose.

How do stubborn lip lines and wrinkles occur?

Even if you have healthy skin, upper lip lines can occur. These lip wrinkles occur as a result of ageing, repetitive facial movements such as smiling, eating and talking, and environmental and lifestyle factors.

Is there an alternative to laser resurfacing?

If you do not have the downtime to undergo laser resurfacing, an alternative treatment is to use filler injections to plump the skin below the wrinkles. This can usually reduce the appearance of the wrinkles, although not as dramatically as it’s possible to achieve using laser.

How long does it take to see results?

Typically by the end of the treatment we can see that the skins surface is smooth, however the skin is red, swollen and oozing at that stage and it takes a couple of weeks to heal. Usually by two weeks after treatment you can see a significant improvement in the wrinkles, although if they have not gone completely they can continue to improve for up to six months as the collagen remodels under the surface of the skin.

What can you do to prevent lip lines?

Although lip lines occur naturally due to ageing, there are still ways to try and prevent premature wrinkles and fine vertical lines from forming on your upper lips over time. Some of the things you can do to prevent these signs of premature ageing include:

  • Avoid smoking
  • Use sunscreen for your specific skin type
  • Keep your skin’s surface around the lip area hydrated
  • Use a skincare product that stimulates collagen production

Your Expert Team

Founder

Dr Darren McKeown

Our founder, Dr Darren McKeown, is renowned for his expertise and artistry with dermal fillers. As a peer-reviewed medical author, he is passionate about treatments that stand up to scientific scrutiny. Above all, Dr McKeown believes in a global approach; delivering flawless results – and rejuvenation that lasts.

Medical Director

Dr Rhona Cameron

Dr Rhona Cameron is a skilled injector who has been extensively trained in Dr McKeown’s signature intuitive technique. Her treatments blend advanced facial optimisation with powerful, energy-based devices – such as lasers, BBL and radio frequency – energising the appearance and enhancing skin health. approach; delivering flawless results – and rejuvenation that lasts.

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