What are wrinkles on the upper lip?

Wrinkles on the upper lip, also called barcode or perioral wrinkles, are the vertical folds that appear on the upper part of the mouth. They come in the form of lines that go from top to bottom.

What are the causes of wrinkles on the upper lip?

Aging: As people age, the skin naturally loses collagen and elastin, which are proteins that provide elasticity and support to the skin. This loss of elasticity can lead to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines, including those around the upper lip.

Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can damage the skin and accelerate the aging process. UV radiation can break down collagen and elastin fibres, making the skin more susceptible to wrinkling.

Smoking: Smoking is a significant contributor to the development of wrinkles around the mouth. The repeated pursing of the lips when smoking and the harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage the skin and accelerate the formation of lines.

Facial expressions: Repeated facial expressions, such as smiling, frowning, or pursing the lips, can lead to the development of lines and wrinkles over time.

Genetics: Genetic factors can influence how your skin ages and how prone you are to developing wrinkles. Some people may be genetically predisposed to having more noticeable lip wrinkles.

Dehydration: Skin that is not adequately hydrated can appear more wrinkled. Drinking enough water and using moisturisers can help keep the skin hydrated and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Volume loss: Loss of fat and soft tissue in the facial area, including around the lips, can lead to the appearance of wrinkles. This loss of volume can make wrinkles more prominent.

What is the treatment for wrinkles on the upper lip?

There are several treatments to eliminate wrinkles on the upper lip:

• Botulinum toxin (Botox): it is applied by means of a syringe and a very fine needle. The product is responsible for paralyzing and relaxing the muscles and prevent them from tensing up.
• Hyaluronic acid: makes the skin of the upper lip reappears smooth and without wrinkles, and the labial edge recovers the lost definition.
• Laser: Laser YAG consists in the application of pulses of energy on the area to be treated under anesthesia. These pulses manage to vaporize the first layer of the skin and, in this way, reduce wrinkles in a single session.
• Facial massages: often used by people who do not want to undergo surgical treatment, although the results take more time and are not as effective as those of the previous treatments. It consists in massaging the area applying a cream with lifting effect for 15 minutes every day.