The human face changes over time, and lips are no exception. Lips visibly transform with age in several noticeable ways. These alterations are a normal part of the aging process, influenced by biological shifts within the body and external factors encountered throughout life.
How Lips Transform with Age
As individuals age, one of the most frequently observed changes in the lips is a reduction in their overall volume. The vermilion, the red part of the lip, tends to become thinner and less full. This thinning can lead to a flatter appearance, diminishing the once-plump contour of both the upper and lower lips.
The upper lip also undergoes alterations. The cupid’s bow, the double curve of the upper lip, can lose its sharp definition and become less pronounced. Similarly, the philtrum columns, the two vertical ridges from the nose to the upper lip, often flatten over time. These changes contribute to a less sculpted and more elongated look of the upper lip.
Another common development is the lengthening of the upper lip. As the skin loses elasticity, the distance between the base of the nose and the top of the upper lip can increase. This lengthening can obscure the upper teeth when smiling, an effect sometimes referred to as a reduction in tooth show.
Fine lines and wrinkles frequently emerge around the mouth area, known as perioral lines or “smoker’s lines.” These lines result from repetitive muscle movements, sun exposure, and natural skin thinning. They radiate outwards from the lip border, further altering the lip’s smooth appearance.
The corners of the mouth can also begin to turn downwards with age, even at rest. This gives the impression of a perpetual frown or a sad expression, impacting overall facial aesthetics. Lip color can also become less vibrant, and texture may appear drier or less smooth over time.
The Biological Reasons for Lip Changes
The underlying cause of many age-related lip changes is the natural degradation and reduced production of structural proteins in the skin. Collagen, which provides firmness and structure, and elastin, responsible for skin’s elasticity, both decline with age. This reduction leads to a loss of skin integrity and volume in the lip tissue, making it less resilient and more prone to thinning.
Changes in the muscles surrounding the mouth also contribute to altered lip shape. The orbicularis oris muscle, which encircles the mouth, can weaken or shift in tone over time. This muscle’s support is important for maintaining lip position and contour, and its changes can lead to the flattening and repositioning of the lips.
The underlying bone structure of the face provides foundational support for the soft tissues, including the lips. As people age, a process called bone resorption can occur in the jaw and facial bones, meaning they gradually lose density and volume. This reduction in skeletal support can cause the lips to recede or appear less projected, contributing to their flatter appearance.
The natural loss of subcutaneous fat in the lip area plays a role in deflating their appearance. This fat provides natural plumpness and cushioning, and its reduction diminishes the soft tissue volume of the lips. This fat atrophy, combined with collagen and elastin loss, creates a less full and more sunken look.
Environmental factors also accelerate the aging process of the lips. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun damages collagen and elastin fibers, leading to premature aging of the skin around the mouth. Repetitive muscle movements, such as pursing the lips or habitual facial expressions, can also contribute to lines and wrinkles. Gravity also exerts its influence, contributing to the downward pull on facial tissues, including the corners of the mouth.