Aging of the Human Lip: Current Knowledge and Clinical Implications

The document provides a detailed examination of lip aging, distinguishing it from facial aging by highlighting unique characteristics such as morphological changes, surface alterations, and faded lip color due to factors like bone resorption, muscle atrophy, and collagen degradation. It notes that lip wrinkles typically begin in the fourth decade of life and become more pronounced by the fifth. The study explores tissue and molecular mechanisms, including the degradation of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, and emphasizes the need for targeted anti-aging lip products. It discusses the role of oxidative stress, vascular changes, and gender differences in lip aging, with women experiencing more severe perioral wrinkles. The document also addresses the lip's weaker barrier function, higher transepidermal water loss, and increased susceptibility to dryness and irritation. Anti-aging strategies suggested include using gentle ingredients, enhancing photoaging protection, and promoting collagen and elastin biosynthesis. The document calls for further research to understand lip aging mechanisms and develop effective treatments.