When it comes to facial aesthetics, the lips are one of the most important and personal areas to consider. The “ideal” lip varies greatly among individuals, cultures and age groups. Research and studies have found that, generally, the ideal lip has the following characteristics: Fullness and volume, correct balance between the upper and lower lip, and a well-defined vermillion border.
Many individuals have genetically thin lips and natural asymmetries. In addition, as we age our lips fall victim to sun damage, environmental stressors, and loss of collagen and volume. Smoking and genetics may contribute significantly to volume loss of the lips and “smoker’s lines.” All of these concerns can be addressed through proper skin care and lip augmentation through a variety of products and minimally invasive treatments to rejuvenate and enhance lips.
Products for the Lips
Patchology’s Flashpatch Lip Gels are a quick and easy way to hydrate, soothe and soften lips in just 5 minutes. The gels contain green tea extract, niacinamide, and peptides which provide intense hydration and anti-aging benefits. They are great for all skin types and as a bonus they are biodegradable!
Lip Service Gloss-to-Balm Treatment is a “Beyond Beauty” favorite and one of our best sellers. Once the gloss is applied it melts into a nourishing balm which keeps your pout protected all day. This treatment contains hyaluronic acid, honey, and aloe which gives you extra shine without feeling sticky.
Epionce Anti-Aging Lip Renewal is a botanical daily treatment that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as hydrates and calms the lips. Key ingredients of this specialized lip formula include avocado oil, rosa canina oil, shea butter, and peppermint leaf
iS Clinical Lip Duo is a two-step lip treatment that includes a Lip Polish which exfoliates and smoothes lips using antioxidants and Vitamins C & E. The second step is the Youth Lip Elixir which protects, plumps, and aids in redefining lip contour. It uses botanical extracts, vitamins C & E, shea butter, and coco butter. Together, this duo will help your lips look plump and smooth and will protect against environmental triggers that we encounter in our daily lives
Treatments for the Lips
Neuromodulators:
Many patients ask about getting the “lip flip” which involves injecting a small amount Botox to the upper lip area. Botox relaxes the muscles which results in an upward curl of the upper lip. This creates the appearance of greater volume in the upper lip. Botox can also be used in the perioral region to elevate the corners of the mouth, minimize fine lines around the mouth, and treat a “gummy smile.” The benefits of using Botox to enhance the lip area include minimal to no downtime, budget-friendliness and results that can last up to 3 Months.
Dermal Fillers:
There are several dermal fillers that are approved for lip augmentation and correction. Some of the best performing lip fillers are found in the JUVÉDERM collection. JUVÉDERM fillers are compromised of hyaluronic acid which is a naturally-occurring substance that our bodies produce. Hyaluronic acid provides moisture, softness and volume to our skin and tissues.
JUVÉDERM Volbella is an injectable designed for lip augmentation and treatment of perioral lines, often called “smoker’s lines.” Volbella is a soft, natural, and subtle filler that allows for natural enhancement of one’s lips and may last up to 1 year.
JUVÉDERM Ultra XC is an injectable that can be used to add volume and plump to the lips. The enhancement is still soft and natural but provides a little more fullness than Volbella but also may last up to 1 year.
Potential side effects of dermal fillers include mild to moderate swelling, bruising, tenderness, lumps/bumps, itching, and discoloration. These side effects typically last 7-14 days but may last up to 4 weeks depending upon the individual. Side effects may be decreased with the use of Arnica and applying ice to the affected area for 10 minutes 3-5 times per day. It’s also best to avoid exercise or excessive sweating for 24 hours after treatments along with use of NSAIDs, alcohol, and smoking 7 days prior to treatment.
After discussing a patient’s goals it is important to take the time to properly assess the patient’s facial shape, current lip structure, and anatomical movement of the lip in order to create a clear treatment plan and set realistic expectations. Someone with naturally thin lips who wants to go for a very full look could expect to undergo multiple treatments over the course of a year. Addressing asymmetries in the lips depends upon in which part of the lip they occur; the cupid’s bow, vermilion border, and philtral columns are all areas to assess and potentially treat in order to reach patients’ goals.
Quickly becoming one of the most popular aesthetic treatments, lip injections can provide fantastic results. Just a little augmentation to your lips can go a long way in creating a more overall youthful appearance. Remember, it’s important to find a provider that you trust and whose aesthetics views are inline with your own.
