How to deal with lip wrinkles and dry lips

Here’s the science of lip care and how to fast-track your way to a more youthful mouth.

What causes lip ageing?

“Lips get their shape, in part, from collagen, and as you age, you produce less of it,” explains Dr Gretchen Frieling, a dermatologist and pathologist. “UV damage, genetics and lifestyle factors, such as smoking, can also be culprits.” To prevent sun damage, apply a lip balm with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily, especially when outdoors. Remember to reapply after swimming.

How can I make my lips look youthful and feel their best?

Just as you do for your face, exfoliating, which removes the outer layer of dry, dead skin to promote cell turnover, can help your lips instantly look and feel smoother, softer and plumper. Buff lips daily with a clean toothbrush, a damp cloth or a lip scrub to remove flakes and increase circulation.

Finish by coating them in a thick layer of a hydrating lip balm, serum or cream with hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture, plus fill lines and boost fullness with treatment ingredients. “Look for products that contain hyaluronic acid, peptides and fatty acids, such as ceramides,” Dr Frieling advises.

Any make-up tricks?

Many lip-plumping products are made with ingredients that temporarily swell lips and can irritate. Instead, opt for lip colour formulas that moisturise to even out fine lines and minimise their appearance. A dab of highlighter on your Cupid’s bow or on the centre of lips over lip colour will also catch light to create a pillowy effect.

What can I do about dry lips?

Your lips are prone to dryness because they lack oil glands, explains dermatologist Dr Rachel Maiman. In winter, the mixture of chilly or windy outdoor air and dry, heated indoor air will do a serious number on your lips, especially if you’re prone to mouth-breathing at night. “Consider using a humidifier in the house, especially in the bedroom while sleeping,” says Dr Maiman.

I’ve got sensitive lips. HELP!

If your lips are sensitive and often chapped, then steer clear of scented products that can contain skin-irritating chemicals. Choose ones that combine petrolatum (petroleum jelly) with humectants such as castor seed oil, glycerine and beeswax. “This combo optimises water content and locks it in,” Dr Maiman says.

Your lips unveiled

The skin on your lips is thinner than most of your skin, allowing the rich supply of sensory nerves underneath to detect temperature and touch more easily. All the better for savouring that passionate kiss - and a reason to wait before sipping that piping-hot cuppa. Your lips are also incredibly mobile, thanks to a complex, multi-layered muscle called the orbicularis oris. This muscle allows you to smile, from and pronounce sounds like the letter 'P', making your lips crucial for communicating to others how you really feel.

Products we love

Lip Sunscreen

Dry lips will be protected with this moisturising, non-greasy lip balm complete with broad- spectrum sunscreen. Dermal Therapy Lip Balm SPF 50+, $6.49

Line-softening balm

Bursting with organic plant oils, vitamins and antioxidants, this rich lip balm nourishes, hydrates and protects lips from day to night. Works beautifully as an overnight lip treatment, too. Dr. Bronner's Organic Lip Balm, $7.65

Fullness booster

It may not be cheap, but this nourishing treatment is full of peptides, hydrators and liposomes, and delivers noticeable plumping after just one application. Definitely worth the splurge. Dr Naomi ApocaLips, $89

Smoothing lip colour

The hydrating texture and slight sheen of this tinted balm delivers sheer colour and a burst of flavour, while softening the look of lip wrinkles. Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Hibiscus, $12.95