Vertical lines above the lip – causes and treatments

Vertical lines above the lip, also called fine lines or wrinkles above the upper lip, are common and can give the face a tired or more severe appearance. They often develop gradually and are only noticed when makeup accumulates in the lines or the skin appears less smooth. Although these lines are harmless, their presence often raises questions about their causes and possible treatments. In this blog post, we'll explain calmly and clearly what vertical lines above the lip are, why they occur, and what options exist to soften them. A personal consultation is always the starting point.

Table of contents

  1. What are vertical lines above the lip
  2. How are these lines formed?
  3. Why creams often have insufficient effect
  4. What treatments can help?
  5. What can you realistically expect?
  6. When treatment is not appropriate
  7. Frequently Asked Questions
  8. Facts and sources
  9. Are you considering a consultation?

What are vertical lines above the lip?

Vertical lines above the lip are fine, usually straight lines that form in the skin between the nose and the upper lip. They are sometimes also called smoker's lines, although they also occur in people who have never smoked. These lines originate in the upper layers of the skin and can vary in appearance from superficial to deeper, depending on the quality of the skin and muscle activity.

How are these lines formed?

The development of vertical lines above the lip is almost always the result of a combination of factors.


  • Decrease in collagen and elastin due to skin aging
  • Repetitive muscle movements of the mouth
  • Thinning of the skin around the lips
  • Sun exposure without adequate protection
  • Genetic predisposition

  • Because the skin in this area is relatively thin and moves a lot, fine lines become visible here more quickly than on other parts of the face.

    Why creams often have insufficient effect

    Skin care products can hydrate the skin and temporarily improve skin texture, but they usually do not reach the deeper skin layers where these lines form.

    For early, very superficial lines, skincare can be supportive, but for clearly visible vertical lines, the effect is often limited. This explains why many people remain dissatisfied with the results despite careful use of creams.

    What treatments can help?

    The appropriate treatment depends on the cause and depth of the lines.

    During a consultation it is always assessed which approach is most appropriate.


    Possible treatment options include:


  • Relaxing injectables for excessive muscle activity
  • Subtle fillers for skin support and softening
  • Skin boosters to improve skin quality
  • Microneedling or other skin-improving treatments

  • Not every treatment is suitable for everyone. Sometimes a combination of techniques is necessary to achieve a natural result.



    What can you realistically expect?

    The goal of a treatment isn't to completely remove all lines, but to soften the appearance and improve skin quality. Results are always subtle and depend on skin type, age, and the chosen treatment. The effect usually develops gradually, and the natural expression is preserved.

    When treatment is not appropriate

    Treatment isn't always the right choice. In some situations, it's advised not to treat (yet):


  • For very superficial lines without obvious skin aging
  • When expectations are not realistic
  • For certain medical conditions
  • During pregnancy or breastfeeding

  • An honest consultation is therefore essential to determine whether treatment is sensible at that time.



    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are vertical lines above the lip permanent?

    Without treatment, they can gradually increase. With the right approach, they can often be noticeably reduced.

    Are these lines only caused by smoking?

    No, smoking can contribute, but sun exposure, skin aging and muscle use also play a major role.

    Is one treatment sufficient?

    This varies from person to person. Sometimes one treatment is enough, sometimes maintenance is necessary.

    Will my lips get bigger with a treatment?

    Not necessarily. Treatments are aimed at skin improvement and softening, not at increasing volume.

    When will I see results?

    Depending on the treatment, results may be visible immediately or gradually.

    Citation

    Claim Source Result
    Skin aging leads to collagen loss RIVM Confirmed
    Facial contours differ per gender. Sun exposure accelerates skin aging. FDA Confirmed
    Injectables can soften wrinkles ASPS Depending on technique
    Skin quality influences wrinkle formation Peer-reviewed studies Confirmed

    Jawline fillers for men

    Personal advice

    Do you have questions about vertical lines above the lip and want to know which treatment is right for your skin? During a personal consultation, we'll discuss your needs, assess your skin, and provide honest and expert advice. A consultation is always free of obligation and tailored to a natural and safe result.


    Listen to the page here