Moisturizing
Keeping the skin moisturized can improve barrier function, so moisturizing is key to protecting the skin against external aggressors that contribute to oxidative stress.
Proper hydration is key to preventing premature aging. Hydrating humectants can also plump up the skin to ease the appearance of lines.
Exfoliating
Alpha-hydroxy acids, like lactic acid and glycolic acid, can also help combat lip lines. AHAs simultaneously exfoliate and hydrate the skin.
AHAs are a great choice for exfoliating as they increase skin cell turnover, improve moisture content, and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Retinoids
Retinoids have been shown to speed up cell turnover, stimulate collagen production and keep future lines from setting in. By blending and thickening the skin, they will help with very superficial fine lines and wrinkles.
But since the skin around the lips is one of the thinnest regions of the whole face, it may be more sensitive. Retinoids can cause irritation and should be used with caution.
Moving Too Much
Experts recommend avoiding constantly pursing or puckering the lips since repeatedly contracting the muscles can lead to expression lines over time.
That is not to say that drinking out of straws is banned, but sipping from the rim more regularly can help avoid lip lines.
Consulting A Professional
Topical and lifestyle methods can help soften fainter lines and etches at bay. But for deeper lines, in-office treatments might be more successful.
Laser and microneedling work best for thickening the skin to make it less flimsy and more likely to wrinkle. A dermatologist might suggest a different route depending on your preference, skin type and lifestyle.