Wrinkles are a natural sign of aging that occur on the skin. When the skin ages, it becomes less resilient. In areas where skin has been frequently used, folds begin to form. Wrinkles may form around the mouth due to smoking, eating, talking or pursing the lips. In some cases, skin products containing retinol can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles. For more drastic results, however, laser procedures and filler injections can help make skin around the mouth look young again.
Step 1
Apply an over-the-counter anti-wrinkle cream containing retinol or alpha hydroxy acids to the area around the mouth. The Mayo Clinic suggests that individuals using over-the-counter retinol or alpha hydroxy products may notice a decrease in wrinkles while using the medication; results are generally "limited and short-lived."
Step 2
Consult a dermatologist about topical prescription retinoids such as tretinoin and tazarotene. Prescription retinoids contain antioxidants, which may reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in some cases. Side effects of prescription retinoids include dryness, burning and itching of the skin.
Step 3
Ask a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon about filler injections. In this procedure, collagen, Restylane, or fat taken from another area of the body is injected into the mouth area. The injections make the area plumper, stretching out the folds that create wrinkles. Filler injections can last as long as two years, according to the Oregon Health & Science University Department of Dermatology.
Step 4
Get microdermabrasion in the area surrounding the mouth. Microdermabrasion is performed by a dermatologist. During the procedure, a layer of skin is removed by blowing an abrasive substance directly onto the affected area. For best results, microdermabrasion must be repeated over several sessions.
Step 5
Consult your dermatologist about laser resurfacing. Ablative laser resurfacing damages the top layers of skin, creating drastic results. Ablative laser resurfacing requires several months of healing time. Nonablative laser resurfacing is more subtle and may require more treatments to get the desired results, but requires no healing time.
Tips and Warnings
- Drink eight glasses of water a day and wear oil-free moisturizer to maintain your skin's buoyancy.
- Consult several doctors before deciding on one to perform your procedure.
Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter retinol cream
- Prescription retinoid cream
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