Smokers’ & Lipstick Lines
Smokers’ lines, also known as lipstick lines, are fine vertical lines that form around the mouth, most commonly above the upper lip. They develop due to repeated mouth movement over time and often become more noticeable as collagen and skin elasticity reduce. While smoking can accelerate their formation, these lines are not exclusive to smokers and can also be influenced by genetics, sun exposure, dehydration and natural ageing.
At JB Aesthetics, smokers and lipstick lines are approached using a doctor-led, skin focused plan. The aim is to soften lines and improve lip area texture while preserving a natural appearance and normal mouth movement.
What Causes Smokers & Lipstick Lines?
Lines around the mouth can be influenced by several factors, including:
Repeated lip movement such as pursing, speaking and expression
Gradual decline in collagen and elastin
Sun exposure and thinning skin
Dehydration and reduced skin barrier strength
Smoking, which can accelerate skin ageing
Genetics and natural lip anatomy
These lines are often the result of both muscle activity and skin quality changes, which is why a tailored treatment plan is important.
How Are Smokers & Lipstick Lines Assessed?
Treatment planning begins with a detailed consultation and facial assessment.
During this appointment, we assess:
The depth and pattern of lines around the mouth
Lip shape, movement and skin texture
Whether lines are present at rest or only during expression
Suitability, risks and realistic outcomes
This assessment allows us to recommend an approach that improves texture while maintaining natural function.
Treatment Options
The most appropriate treatment depends on whether lines are primarily movement-driven, related to skin texture and dehydration, or a combination of both. Not every patient will require the same approach. Treatment planning is conservative due to the sensitivity of the mouth area and the importance of maintaining natural movement.
Options that may be considered include:
Muscle relaxing injections
Around the mouth in selected cases to soften movement-driven lines while preserving normal function
Lip filler
In selected cases to support hydration and reduce upper lip creasing without creating an overfilled appearance
SkinPen® microneedling
To stimulate collagen and improve skin texture in the lip area where appropriate
MOXI® laser
To refine texture and support smoother skin quality
Regenerative injectables
Such as Profhilo or polynucleotides to support tissue quality and hydration in selected cases
Medical-grade skincare
To strengthen the skin barrier and support long-term improvement
What to Expect from Treatment
Our clinic specialises in non-surgical treatments that rejuvenate and refine without changing who you are. This includes injectable and regenerative treatments alongside advanced skin therapies and medical grade skincare to support healthy, radiant skin.
We believe facial aesthetics should enhance your confidence. When your features are balanced and your skin is healthy, you appear refreshed, rested and well. This is why our approach centres on anatomical precision and gentle, considered techniques.
Our goal is always the same. To create results that look effortless and natural, while ensuring your face remains expressive and recognisably you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a smoker to have these lines?
No. These lines commonly develop due to ageing, sun exposure, facial movement and genetics.
Will treatment affect speaking or drinking?
Treatment is planned to preserve normal mouth function. Any risks or temporary changes are discussed during consultation.
Can smokers’ lines be treated without filler?
Yes. Skin quality treatments such as microneedling or laser can improve texture depending on the cause and severity.
Will the lines disappear completely?
Many patients see noticeable softening, but complete removal is not always realistic for deeper, established lines. The goal is natural-looking improvement.
Are treatments suitable for men?
Yes. Perioral lines affect men as well, and treatment plans are tailored to achieve a subtle, understated result.
