What Options Are Available for Treating Marionette Lines?

There are several families of fillers that treat static wrinkles, including Juvéderm® and Restylane®. Los Angeles’ Skin Care and Laser Physicians of Beverly Hills team explains that these injectables are ideal for treating nasolabial folds in the lower face, where many of the most common facial wrinkles develop.

Nasolabial folds are creases that stretch between the sides of the nose and corners of the mouth. Other facial wrinkles common to the area include marionette lines, and vertical lip lines. Marionette lines are a common sign of aging that may make you appear older or look like you’re constantly frowning. Unlike nasolabial folds, marionette lines—also known as melomental folds—stretch from the corners of the mouth down to the chin. These lines run vertically and can also contribute to sagging on the lower part of the face. 

The name “marionette lines” comes from marionette puppets that have strings running straight down and may also have pronounced vertical lines in the same area of the face. Although anyone may get these creases as they get older, some people are more likely to develop the wrinkles at a younger age or have deeper, more prominent marionette lines.

The exact reason why some people get marionette lines and others don’t is not fully understood as yet, but there are several possible causes. Collagen and elastin loss in the skin because of natural aging, genetics, not wearing adequate sunscreen, frequently pursing the lips, smoking, and skin damage due to sun exposure and other environmental elements are all factors that may contribute to the development of marionette lines.

These wrinkles may be mild, moderate, or severe. There aren’t any ways to permanently remove them, but you can minimize them and make them less noticeable with certain cosmetic treatments. Continue reading to learn about some beauty treatments and other options for reducing these wrinkles. 

Facial Fillers

Fillers are injectable substances that add temporary plumpness and lift to the skin, so they can be very effective for treating mild to moderate marionette lines, especially when the wrinkles in their early stages. Dermal fillers are designed to address existing static wrinkles. These injectables mimic the effects of collagen and elastin by adding just the right amount of volume to the targeted areas that need it. The results from hyaluronic acid-based fillers can be seen instantly. Fillers used conservatively in this area of the lower face can produce the most natural-looking results, especially when administered by an experienced injector.

Antioxidants 

Antioxidants such as vitamin C can be included in your skincare routine to stimulate the production of collagen as a way of making the skin smoother. New collagen can help to minimize wrinkles and fine lines. It’s also recommended that you combine vitamin C with sunscreen because vitamin C can boost the effects of the SPF. Sunscreen is highly recommended for preventing wrinkles from developing on the upper and lower face. Choose an SPF of at least 30 and a broad-spectrum sunscreen to get the best protection for your skin. 

Skin Treatments 

Laser skin treatments and chemical peels are also helpful for treating wrinkles, including marionette lines, since they resurface the skin to make it look smoother. Both options are ideal for minimizing existing lines and wrinkles on the face. 

Retinoids

Another option to consider is retinoids, which are topical products that contain synthetic vitamin A derivatives. These products stimulate collagen and elastin growth deep in the skin to improve the appearance of wrinkles, such as marionette lines. They also increase skin cell turnover by allowing new cells to be created. Retinoids can exfoliate, stimulate skin cell turnover, reduce inflammation, and more to make the skin’s texture more even.

Contact Skin Care and Laser Physicians of Beverly Hills for more information about what to expect from facial fillers. Call 310-246-0495 or fill out a contact form online to request a consultation if you would like to discuss hyaluronic acid fillers.