What should you know about wrinkles around your mouth?

Lines may appear above the upper lip, at the corners, or extending from the nose toward the mouth. Smiling, speaking, sipping through a straw, and other repeated expressions can deepen lines that first appear only with movement. Ultraviolet exposure can reduce the skin’s elasticity and make texture more visible. Dry or irritated skin can temporarily emphasize fine creases. The pattern and whether the line remains at rest help a clinician distinguish surface texture from a deeper loss of volume.

Use a gentle cleanser, a bland moisturizer, and broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed facial skin each day. Avoid smoking and repeated lip irritation where possible. A dermatologist can discuss a retinoid, resurfacing treatment, Botox, or Dermal Fillers; the suitable option depends on whether movement, texture, or volume is the main contributor. Do not apply strong products close to the lips without guidance, especially if the skin stings or peels.

Arrange a skin assessment if a line changes quickly, becomes painful, bleeds, crusts, or forms a persistent sore. Seek prompt care for swelling with breathing difficulty or a rapidly spreading rash. Otherwise, book a routine consultation if the lines bother you or if home care causes ongoing irritation.

Ask whether your lines are mainly movement-related, surface-related, or linked to volume change; which treatment matches that pattern; what side effects and aftercare to expect; and how to protect the area from further sun damage.