Perioral lines – often called smoker’s lines or lip lines – are one of the most common concerns we treat at The Bronte Clinic. These fine vertical lines above the upper lip can make the mouth look aged, even when the rest of the face still feels youthful. Even non smokers can develop them but the good news? You don’t need to undergo drastic treatments to soften them.
What Are Perioral Lines – and Why Do They Appear?
Perioral lines are the vertical wrinkles that form around the mouth, particularly the upper lip. While they’re commonly associated with smoking – hence the nickname “smoker’s lines” – many people who develop them have never smoked at all.
Top causes of perioral lines include:
- Collagen and elastin loss with age
- Repetitive lip movements from speaking, sipping, and facial expression
- Sun exposure, which accelerates skin ageing
- Hormonal changes, especially during perimenopause and menopause
- Genetics and lifestyle factors, such as dehydration and stress
Because the skin around the mouth is thinner and more mobile than other areas of the face, it is more prone to fine lines and wrinkles.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Smoker’s Lines at The Bronte Clinic
At The Bronte Clinic, we take a holistic, personalised approach to facial aesthetics. Our focus is always on enhancing skin quality and restoring a fresher, more rested appearance – without looking “done.”
Here are the most effective and natural-looking treatment options we offer for perioral lines:
- Skin Boosters for Lip Lines
Injectable skin boosters deeply hydrate and improve skin elasticity. These treatments can soften smoker’s lines and improve overall skin texture without adding volume. We particularly like Viscoderm Hydrobooster to give a effective but natural result.
- Botulinum toxin injections for Upper Lip Lines
Often known as the “lip flip”, this treatment use microdoses of botulinum toxin injected just above the upper lip. It can gently relax the muscles around the mouth that contribute to vertical lines. When used carefully, this allows for softening of lip lines without freezing movement.
- Dermal fillers
By using very fine, malleable hyaluronic acid fillers in tiny amounts to smooth lines directly or subtly define the lip border. This technique restores support without changing the natural shape of your lips (or adding any volume)..
- Medical-Grade Skincare
Topical treatments like retinoids, AHAs, and antioxidant serums can improve skin tone and texture. At The Bronte Clinic, we build custom skincare plans using evidence-based, dermatologist-approved products for long-term results.
Here at The Bronte Clinic, we specialise in subtle, regenerative aesthetic treatments that respect your natural features. Whether you’re looking to prevent perioral lines or treat visible lip wrinkles, our experienced aesthetic doctors & nurse can guide you through the most suitable options – no overfilling, no drastic changes, just confident, refreshed skin.
Ready to soften smoker’s lines naturally? Click here to book your consultation today!


