A combination of aging, sun exposure, and genetics influence the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and creases. However, your daily habits can also make you more prone to such signs of aging than the rest of the world. Take those lines around the mouth area for example. Have you noticed that your laugh lines are getting more obvious and noticeable each day? 

Here at our Miami dermatology practice, we offer effective treatments to help you get rid of those pesky smile lines, marionette lines, and vertical lip lines. In addition, we also recommend that you avoid the following wrinkle-forming habits as much as possible.

1. Smoking

The detrimental effects of smoking on one’s health is widely known. Yet, are you aware of its negative impact on your skin? By and large, it damages the elastin and collagen contents of your skin. Both these substances are responsible for providing structure and support to your skin so it can appear supple and youthful. In addition, the puffing action when you smoke results to “smoker’s lines” around the mouth area. All the more reason to quit the habit now!

2. Chewing Gum

While chewing gum is a harmless habit (it can even help produce more saliva and neutralize the acids in your mouth), chewing gum compulsively can contort the muscles around the mouth area and contribute to the appearance of lines and wrinkles. You can still chew gum but if you do it several times a day, you might want to do put a limit to the habit!

3. Sleeping on your side

You might also want to avoid sleeping on your side or burying your face with your pillow as they can also contribute to the loss of elastin and collagen on your facial skin. In addition, the skin in your face is more delicate than the rest of your skin, making them less likely to bounce back after putting pressure on them.

An initial consultation with Dr. Crowell is your first step to figuring out which treatment approach is best for those lines and wrinkles around the mouth. To schedule an appointment, please call (305) 274-0221 ext. 100 or 125.