Although we might not like to think about it, aging isn’t something that only happens to other people. Eventually, everyone sees changes in every area of the face, from sunken cheeks to drooping eyelids. Everyone ages at a different rate and in slightly different ways, but we can all expect to see significant (and usually unwelcome!) aesthetic changes at some point.
The lips are no exception. As we get older, our lips start to get thinner, drier, and wrinkled. They might have a “shriveled” appearance and you might find that wearing lipstick now causes “bleeding” into the vertical lines surrounding your lips.
As with other signs of aging, however, you don’t have to just sit by and let it happen. There are treatments that can help you enjoy a more youthful appearance and fuller, smoother lips even after the aging process is in full swing. There are solutions for lip rejuvenation that could help you improve your appearance AND your self-confidence.
Signs of Aging Lips
Thin lips can be genetic, but they can also be a sign of aging. If you’re getting older and you’re noticing changes in your lips, chances are good that they’re signs of aging.
Collagen loss, which is the biggest factor in sagging skin and many other signs of aging, also starts to affect the lips as we get older. The body produces less and less collagen over time, leading to thinner lips with less plumpness and elasticity. This also contributes to wrinkling around the lips.
Vertical fine lines around the mouth are a common symptom of aging. They’re often called “smoker’s lines” or “smoker’s lips” because they’re associated with the puckering action of smoking a cigarette and the damage that nicotine does to the skin. Although smokers are more likely to get smoker’s lines, just about anyone can get them as they get older.
To rejuvenate the lips, the most important thing is to replace lost volume and create more definition. That’s where professional cosmetic treatments come in—and dermal fillers are generally the go-to for aging lips.
Injectable Fillers For a Youthful Pout
Young people often turn to injectable dermal fillers for lip augmentation, as some people are born with naturally thin lips or poor lip contours. However, these treatments can also be ideal for those struggling with aging lips.
Dermal fillers are extremely versatile. They provide instant volume, look and feel very natural, and are completely biocompatible. They’ve become so popular for lip treatments that there are now formulas on the market designed specifically for lip augmentation and aging lips.
Most dermal fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, a substance that the body produces naturally. HA hydrates and plumps up the lips temporarily, creating a more youthful appearance. HA fillers can also be injected directly into vertical lip lines for a smoother, younger appearance.
Injectables are non-invasive and require little to no downtime. Most formulas today contain comfort-enhancing local anesthesia and side effects after the treatments are mild. Most patients come in for injections every six months or so to continue enjoying their results.
At Mirror Mirror Beauty Boutique, we offer several different HA fillers, including the lip-specific formula Juvederm Volbella. Our experts help you design a treatment plan that is created specifically for your needs.
Combining Lip Treatments with Other Anti-Aging Solutions
Most people start noticing signs of aging in other areas of the face before their lips start to age. Because of this, you might want to consider combining lip rejuvenation treatments with other anti-aging procedures for better results. If your lips look youthful but you’ve got deep furrows, volume loss, or frown lines, you’re probably not going to be happy with your appearance.
Talk to an expert and ask them for a recommendation. They might suggest combining lip injections with Botox for dynamic wrinkles or additional dermal fillers for static wrinkles. Or, they may recommend a skin-tightening or resurfacing treatment for tired, loose skin.
Don’t get so laser-focused on your lips that you lose the bigger picture. A natural, refreshed appearance might require a combination approach.
Keep Your Lips Happy
Whether you choose to move forward with lip rejuvenation or not, there are still things you can do at home to keep your lips happy. Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet. Try to avoid drinking through a straw to reduce vertical lip lines.
You should also make sure your lips are included in your skincare routine. Gentle exfoliation and the use of a soothing, hydrating lip balm can help keep your lips soft and happy. There are also plumping products that can boost thin lips a little.
Choose the Right Provider
If you do decide to move forward with lip fillers, it’s important to choose a clinic with a reputation for excellence. Mirror Mirror Beauty Boutique is staffed by expert aestheticians and run by elite plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Vitenas. The welcoming, calming environment of the medspa combines with the talent of the staff to bring patients an exceptional experience.
To schedule a lip rejuvenation consultation with one of our experts, call Mirror Mirror in Houston, TX, at (281) 810-9083 today. You can also visit us online and fill out a consultation request if you prefer. Beautiful, healthy lips are just around the corner!