Fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth area are incredibly common. Unfortunately, many looking to treat these lines will find that professional procedures are both time consuming and costly. If you’re interested in treating them on your own, we’ll cover some of the best home remedies for reducing the appearance of wrinkles around the mouth.
What Causes Fine Lines Around the Mouth?
Just like with other areas of the face, fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth can be caused by a few different factors – some of which are out of our control. For example, as we get older, our skin gradually loses its elasticity and structure, which can lead to more prominent lines around the mouth. Smiling, frowning, and other repetitive facial movements will also contribute to lines over time. Additionally, genetics can play a role, and you may simply be more prone to these signs of aging.
Beyond these factors, there are other causes that you can manage (at least to a certain degree!). Chronic sun exposure is a major culprit when it comes to fine lines and wrinkles all over the face, as it can damage elastin and collagen. Both of these proteins give the skin structure and elasticity. Free radicals from environmental aggressors (like pollution) also negatively impact these structural proteins.
Smoking is another common factor, as it degrades our natural levels of elastin and collagen. The repetitive facial movement from smoking also causes creases over time.
Different Types of Mouth Wrinkles
Mouth wrinkles can be broken up into three different categories:
Home Remedies For Wrinkles Around the Mouth
Now, let’s talk about a few home remedies you can try to reduce the appearance of these different types of lines. Each remedy is affordable and easy!
Do a Weekly Egg White Mask
Some claim that egg whites help firm and tighten the skin, smoothing out the look of lines in the process. All you need to do is apply a thin, even layer of egg whites onto clean skin, and then let them dry for up to half an hour. Rinse the mask off with warm water, and then continue with the rest of your skincare routine.
Try Facial Exercises
There are certain exercises you can do to strengthen the facial muscles, which can in turn reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Here’s one to try:
- Apply pressure to your smile lines using your fingers.
- Keep your fingers in place, and then smile as wide as possible (with your teeth showing). Hold for up to 10 seconds.
- Relax the mouth, and then repeat 15 times.
Drink Your Collagen
While research is still in its early stages, some believe that collagen supplements can help strengthen the skin from within and soften the look of lines. Many supplements come in the form of a tasteless powder, which you can mix into coffee, smoothies, juices, or virtually any other drink you enjoy on a regular basis.
How Your Skincare Routine Can Help
Home remedies are great, but for the fastest and most visible results, you also need to take a look at your skincare routine. If you want to soften fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth without turning to more invasive procedures, targeted treatments and preventative measures are essential.
Serums are your best tools for battling fine lines and wrinkles. They are made with potent concentrations of active ingredients that target specific skin concerns. When it comes to fine lines and wrinkles, one of the best products you can add to your routine is a vitamin C serum. Vitamin C has been shown to stimulate the natural production of collagen, leading to enhanced elasticity and reduced lines. It’s also an antioxidant that can help defend the skin against the damaging effects of free radicals.
We also recommend reaching for a hyaluronic acid serum. Hyaluronic acid pulls water to the skin to hydrate and plump, which helps smooth the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
Beyond serums, it’s also important to wear sunscreen on a daily basis to prevent damage from UV exposure. Applying moisturizer twice daily is also key for keeping the skin soft and supple (which will in turn soften the look of fine lines), while cleansing at least once daily will prep your skin so that your serums, moisturizer, and other skincare products can do their best possible work.
