Understanding and Treating Accordion Lines Around the Mouth

Accordion lines are those fine wrinkles that appear along the lower cheeks and around the mouth often visible even when you’re not smiling. Over time, natural facial movements, volume loss, and environmental exposure can make these lines more noticeable.

If you’ve ever wondered why these creases develop or what can be done to help reduce their appearance, this guide breaks it down for you.

Key Takeaways

• Accordion lines are static wrinkles that form from repeated smiling and facial movement.
• Volume loss and reduced skin elasticity make them more visible over time.
• Sun exposure and genetics can accelerate their development.
• Treatments like dermal fillers can help restore lost volume in affected areas.
• Consultation with a qualified clinician ensures the right approach for your skin.

What Are Accordion Lines?

Accordion lines are the small creases that form beside the mouth and lower cheeks, typically when you smile. Unlike dynamic wrinkles, which appear only with facial movement, accordion lines become static over time, meaning they remain visible even when your face is at rest.

They tend to develop due to repetitive muscle movement combined with a gradual decline in collagen, elastin, and naturally occurring sugars (hyaluronic acid) within the skin. This loss of structure causes the skin to fold more easily, resulting in visible lines that can make the face appear tired or less smooth.

Why Do Accordion Lines Form?

There isn’t a single cause behind these lines, but rather a combination of natural and environmental factors:

• Repetitive facial expressions such as smiling and laughing.
• Loss of skin volume due to decreased hyaluronic acid and fat beneath the skin.
• Sun exposure, which breaks down collagen and weakens skin elasticity.
• Ageing, which slows the body’s ability to produce new collagen and elastin.
• Genetics and lifestyle choices like smoking or dehydration.

These influences collectively contribute to changes in texture and firmness around the lower face.

How Can You Address Accordion Lines?

While accordion lines are a natural part of facial ageing, there are ways to help smooth and hydrate the skin to reduce their visibility. Treatments that focus on restoring volume and improving elasticity can make a noticeable difference.

One effective option is the use of dermal fillers, which help replace lost hyaluronic acid in the skin, restoring hydration and volume beneath the surface. By gently supporting the tissue, fillers can improve skin texture and soften the appearance of lines.

Learn more about dermal fillers and how they may support overall facial rejuvenation.

Other Factors That Support Skin Smoothness

Alongside professional treatments, maintaining healthy skin habits can also help:

• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect against UV damage.
• Use a hydrating serum or moisturiser containing hyaluronic acid.
• Stay hydrated and eat a nutrient-rich diet to support skin repair.
• Consider non-invasive rejuvenation options, like skin boosters or RF skin tightening, which encourage collagen renewal.

Each person’s skin behaves differently, so a consultation with an experienced clinician can help determine which treatments or skincare plan suit your unique needs.

Book a Consultation

If accordion lines are something you’ve started to notice and would like tailored advice, speak with one of our qualified clinicians. They can assess your skin and create a plan that supports both natural results and overall skin health. Book a consultation today to discuss your treatment options.

Book an appointment with our Cosmetic Nurse Specialist on 9370 1997 to discuss those not so cute accordion lines.