Dermatologists agree: this is the most effective treatment to reduce wrinkles around the mouth.

 

Initially fine and almost invisible, they gradually become more pronounced… Wrinkles around the mouth are among the quickest to betray the passage of time. Nicknamed "barcode lines," they appear vertically above the lips, altering facial expression and sometimes making makeup application more challenging. And while many hope to smooth them out with a simple cream, the reality is often more nuanced.

Because this area of ​​the face is one of the most used: we talk, we smile, we eat, and the skin gets very little rest. As a result, conventional skincare quickly shows its limitations, especially when wrinkles are already well established. So, what can you really do when wrinkles around the mouth are stubborn? Experts agree: it all depends on their depth and the overall condition of the skin.

Why do wrinkles around the mouth appear faster?

The perioral area is particularly fragile. The skin there is thin, poorly protected naturally, and lacking in sebum. Added to this are well-known external factors. For Dr. Anna Chacon, repeated sun exposure remains one of the main accelerators of skin aging: the fibers that ensure the skin's suppleness and tone gradually lose their quality.

Lifestyle also plays a key role. Certain habits accentuate repeated lip contractions and promote the formation of permanent wrinkles. Over time, the skin loses its ability to "bounce back" after each movement, and wrinkles become visible even at rest. It is at this stage that cosmetic treatments alone are no longer sufficient.

Creams: useful, but not miraculous

Creams and serums certainly have their place, but primarily as preventative measures or to improve the overall appearance of the skin. They help to hydrate, temporarily smooth, and improve comfort, but they cannot erase deep, established wrinkles. Dermatologists emphasize that expecting dramatic results from a simple topical treatment often leads to disappointment.

However, when chosen carefully, these products strengthen the skin and prolong the effects of in-office treatments. Vitamin C, niacinamide, or moisturizing agents are often recommended to maintain softer, more radiant skin on a daily basis.

Medical resurfacing, the gold standard for deep wrinkles

When wrinkles around the mouth are deep, specialists favor resurfacing techniques. The principle: to intensely stimulate skin renewal in order to obtain a smoother surface and visibly improved skin.

Among the most effective options, fractional laser treatment is now widely acclaimed. It works by creating tiny stimulation zones that encourage the skin to regenerate, while leaving areas unaffected for faster recovery. The results are gradual but long-lasting, with a real improvement in texture and firmness.

Other resurfacing techniques exist, but they always require a personalized assessment, as each skin reacts differently and requires a suitable protocol.

Injections and targeted treatments: a complementary approach

To enhance or harmonize the result, hyaluronic acid injections can be considered with great precision. The goal is not to freeze the mouth, but to restore support and suppleness to the area. When properly dosed, they respect natural expressions and provide a natural effect.

Dr. Elaine F. Kung emphasizes the importance of a simple but consistent daily routine: hydration, antioxidants, and especially sun protection. Without it, even the best techniques quickly lose their effectiveness.

Wrinkles around the mouth are therefore not treated with a single solution, but with a coherent, progressive and personalized strategy, designed to support the skin in the long term rather than promising the impossible.