Upper Lip Wrinkles: What They Are and How to Treat Them
At Germaine de Capuccini, we develop innovative formulas tailored to the delicate needs of each facial area, especially sensitive zones like the upper lip. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about these vertical lines, why they appear, and how to effectively treat them with expert skincare.
What Are Upper Lip Wrinkles?
Have you noticed small vertical lines just above the upper lip? Often called "barcode lines", these wrinkles may start subtly but deepen over time. They usually appear after the age of 40, although they can show up earlier due to factors like stress, sun exposure or smoking.
The upper lip area is one of the most fragile parts of the face, it has fewer sebaceous glands, thinner skin and is constantly in motion. This makes it particularly prone to loss of firmness, elasticity and hydration.
To properly care for this area, it’s essential to use targeted products like those in the Timexpert Wrinkle·Less line, formulated to address facial ageing with advanced, visible results.
Causes of Upper Lip Wrinkles
Lip movements and expressions:
Talking, smiling, pursing the lips, or smoking can create dynamic lines that gradually become permanent as the muscles around the mouth (perioral muscles) stay active.
Loss of collagen and elastin:
From age 30, collagen and elastin production slow down, reducing skin density and firmness, especially in mobile, fragile areas like the upper lip.
Photoageing:
UV exposure breaks down collagen, generates free radicals, and weakens the skin barrier, particularly around the lips.
Smoking:
This not only involves repetitive movement but also restricts oxygen and speeds up collagen degradation.
Dehydration:
The thin skin above the lip quickly shows signs of water and lipid loss, resulting in visible lines.
Genetics and facial structure:
Some people are more predisposed to wrinkles in this area due to heredity or the shape of their upper lip.
How to Detect Upper Lip Wrinkles Early
Detecting upper lip wrinkles in their initial stages is essential for preventing them from becoming permanent. While they may be subtle at first, early signs are easy to recognise when you pay attention:
Fine vertical lines appearing with movement: If you notice faint lines when you talk, smile or purse your lips, and they disappear when relaxed, these are dynamic wrinkles beginning to form.
Fading definition around the lip contour: The crisp, defined edge of the upper lip may begin to blur, making the lip look less sculpted or youthful.
Persistent dryness or tightness: This can indicate a compromised skin barrier and early dehydration, which accelerates ageing.
Less volume and firmness above the lip: If the skin starts to feel thinner, more delicate or lacks bounce, it’s a signal that collagen and elasticity are declining.
By recognising these indicators early, you can introduce specific treatments that reinforce the lip area’s structure and prevent wrinkles from deepening. A specialised product like Pro-Collagen Eyes and Lips is perfect for this delicate zone, acting gently yet effectively.
How to Prevent Upper Lip Wrinkles
While we can't completely stop time, we can certainly slow down its effects on the skin with conscious daily habits. Preventing upper lip wrinkles begins with consistency, protection, and choosing the right skincare. Here’s how:
Apply SPF daily even in winter: The upper lip area is often overlooked, yet it’s highly vulnerable to UV and blue light damage.
Avoid repetitive gestures: Smoking and habitual lip-pursing significantly accelerate wrinkle formation. Being mindful of these movements can delay visible signs of ageing.
Use targeted treatments: Opt for products formulated for this delicate area, like Pro-Collagen Eyes and Lips, which combines anti-wrinkle action with skin-soothing properties
Reinforce hydration: Incorporate nourishing creams and serums into your routine to strengthen the skin barrier and maintain volume.
Include facial massage: Just a few seconds each day can improve circulation and relax muscle tension. Use upward, circular motions around the mouth to soften expression lines and support skin tone. For enhanced results, apply a nourishing oil such as the Elixir Absolut Nutrition Oil before your massage. This expert formula reinforces the skin barrier and enhances the effectiveness of your anti-wrinkle routine from the very first application.
Treatments to Reduce Upper Lip Wrinkles
If wrinkles are already visible, there are effective ways to smooth them using specialised treatments. Our top recommendation is:
Pro-Collagen Eyes and Lips: A dual-action anti-wrinkle treatment designed to target the upper lip and eye contour. It works precisely where it’s needed most, using advanced cosmetic science.
Complement your anti-wrinkle routine with:
Pro-Collagen Day Cream SPF30: An everyday essential that protects against solar radiation—including blue light—while reinforcing the anti-ageing action. Its melting texture hydrates without overloading and helps prevent the formation of new wrinkles.
Pro-Collagen Cream: Ideal for boosting firmness and comfort across the face. It provides extra nourishment and elasticity, making it the perfect foundation for mature skin routines.
Pro-Collagen Serum: This concentrated formula works in depth to improve skin density and texture. The ideal step before applying cream to maximise treatment results.
Pro-Collagen Anti-Wrinkle Routine: Designed for those seeking more global results, this routine combines the line’s key products to deliver a synergistic action that targets the visible signs of ageing in multiple facial areas.
Frequently Asked Questions about Upper Lip Wrinkles
WHY DO I HAVE LINES ABOVE MY UPPER LIP?
These small vertical lines can appear earlier than expected. Sometimes, all it takes is repeating certain gestures like pursing your lips, smiling, or spending time in the sun without protection for them to begin forming. Add ageing and lack of hydration to the mix, and the result is what’s commonly known as “barcode lines”.
Fortunately, there are now specific solutions like the Pro-Collagen Eyes and Lips, specially designed to treat this delicate area with both gentleness and precision.
WHAT TYPE OF CREAM IS BEST FOR THE UPPER LIP AREA?
Look for a product specifically formulated for this sensitive area. Pro-Collagen Eyes and Lips is ideal as it treats deep lines with precision, improves hydration and restores firmness. For a more complete routine, pair it with Pro-Collagen Serum and Day Cream SPF30 for full anti-ageing care.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN VERTICAL LIP LINES AND EXPRESSION LINES?
There’s no difference; "barcode lines" is simply a nickname for vertical wrinkles above the lip. Regardless of the name, the care should be the same: gentle, targeted, and consistent.
