What are these multiple vertical lines I have when smiling and how can I get rid of them? (Photo)

Question

I'm only 26 and I have these vertical lines around my mouth that appear when smiling/laughing. They are not like normal laugh lines. I don't know what has caused them. No matter how much I moisturise they never appear to smooth out. I don't know anyone else who has them let alone someone my own age. I'm very self conscious of them and I feel they make me look older. I would most like to know what they are, what causes them and if anything can be done to get rid of them or treat them?

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

These are your smile lines. Depending on the anatomy, some people will have prominent lines and other people no lines.  Having a thin face will also accentuate the lines.  There is no way to get rid of these lines, and they are really not "aging".  Some filler to this area may help to soften their appearance.  However you don't want to put a lot of filler in this area or your face will appear fat and bottom heavy.

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

The lines around the mouth when one smiles are due to the action of the muscles involved in the smile mechanism.The smile muscles vary a lot among individuals and the anatomy may also vary.That is why it is difficult to treat.. These muscles are the orbicularis oris, the zygomaticus major and minor, in your case may also involve the risarius.Treatment s difficult , but filler may be good but it may cause some puffiness around the mouth

What are these multiple vertical lines I have when smiling and how can I get rid of them? (Photo)

Answers (2)