Lips Don't Lie :

I am 53 years old, but do not feel nor look like it. I look about 45 as to what people say, because I have never hidden my age. I have a few creases around my lips, and would like to soften them a bit, as they show a bit by the end of my work day. I’ve heard you can use vitamin E, but what about injections?

While vitamin E has been associated with improving the overall condition of skin, there is no strong evidence that supports the topical, or outside application of the liquid. Truly the best method of taking the vitamin to maximize its benefits is internally, whether it be by a supplement or by eating vitamin E rich foods such as nuts and green leafy vegetables.

The creasing around your lips, as with lines and wrinkles in general, are caused by a number of factors. The skin and layers under the skin change as we get older, which results in less elasticity and collagen (or plumping). In addition, the skin’s ability to retain moisture decreases due to these changes, which is why your skin may feel or look drier. External factors, such as sun exposure and smoking, also contribute to the aging affects on the skin. Prevention is the cure. Start by using a rich, but lightweight moisturizer with an SPF to protect yourself from UVA and UVB rays, such as Olay Total Effects Moisturizing Vitamin Complex ($17.99, drugstore.com). At night, consider a rich cream that will help to hydrate the skin, which helps to improve its texture and appearance.

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Another popular but more dramatic option is dermal injection of a filler, which is only to be performed by a licensed doctor. You may have heard of collagen injections, where collagen is directly injected to the lip area to smooth out lines. Since collagen is naturally present in the body, the results are not permanent because the product is eventually absorbed. A product called Restylane is also used to fill in lines around the mouth and is also injected. Unlike collagen, Restylane is a gel based on hyaluronic acid, which, as we know, helps the skin to retain water. These results are also temporary, lasting anywhere from 6 to 12 months.

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