Marionette Lines: What Are They and How to Get Rid of Them?

Marionette puppets are dolls that are made to act by pulling strings. Marionette lines are named after the prominent lines on and around a marionette puppet’s mouth. These are common features and lines that develop and deepen with age.

Marionette lines are vertical creases that develop from the lateral corner of the mouth and goes down towards the chin. In the article below, we will discuss marionette lines, how it occurs and understand some of the ways by which these can be prevented or treated.

What are Marionette Lines?

Marionette lines run vertically from the lateral corners of the mouth down towards the chin that gives a dragging appearance. This is a natural aging process, a tapestry of golden memories and all the expressions that the face carried; however, most people are troubled by it and would prefer to reduce or eliminate these lines for a youthful appearance. Marionette lines can be shallow or deep, depending on the age and prominence of the lines.

What are the Causes of Marionette Lines?

Enlisted below are the factors that contribute to the development of marionette lines.

1. Advancing Age

Skin loses it elasticity with increasing age. Elasticity and volume of skin is under constant regulation by the production of collagen and elastin that keeps the skin smooth and firm. The production of collagen and elastin decreases during or after middle age that causes the formation and deepening of marionette lines. This is the most common cause of formation of marionette lines and wrinkling, that is a sign of a natural aging process.

2. Genetic Factors

The data stored in our genes dictates our course of structure formation, mechanisms and actions. Individuals with parents and grandparents who had prominent marionette lines are most likely to have them too. Genetic factors decide the predisposition of an individual to marionette lines or even cause them to have early appearance of marionette lines, that is even before the middle age.

3. Facial Expressions

Facial expressions are unknowingly repeated that cause formation of lines and wrinkles. Smiling, frowning or pursing the lips further deepens the formation of creases after repetitive motions that can lead to permanent lines, giving rise to marionette lines.

4. Exposure to UV rays

Continued exposure to intense sunlight in summers can cause the ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun to penetrate the facial skin and delay or inhibit the formation of collagen and elastin. Scientists also believe that prolonged exposure to sunlight is a common cause of premature aging of the skin. Thus, exposure to UV rays from the sunlight can lead to skin creases and marionette lines around the mouth.

5. Lifestyle

Lifestyle factors such as diets, habits and exercising can also influence the elasticity of facial skin. Bad habits such as smoking, taking unhealthy and poor diet, taking stress and inadequate skincare contributes to premature aging and formation of marionette lines.

What are the effective techniques for Prevention of Marionette Lines?

It is impossible to entirely prevent the formation of marionette lines as it depends on uncontrollable factors such as age, genetics and facial expressions. However, there are a few methods to delay the onset and depth of marionette lines.

1. Skincare

Skincare is the most important preventive technique against formation of marionette lines. Adequate hydration and picking the right moisturiser act as key elements to keep the skin hydrated, soft and supple. It is essential to choose a high-quality moisturiser to avoid the toxic effects of those from the low-quality moisturisers. Moisturiser helps with prevention from dryness which is a culprit behind formation of skin creases.

As mentioned before, UV rays from intense sunlight can breakdown the collagen and elastin in the skin and cause wrinkling. To combat this problem, make a ritual of applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF over 30 every day. It is essential to be applied even on cloudy days so that the skin is protected from any possibility of sun damage or breakdown of collagen.

Additionally, consult a skincare expert and get anti-aging skincare products to fight off the chances of premature aging of the skin. Anti-aging skincare products include those containing hyaluronic acid, retinoids, antioxidants, Vitamin C and E that boosts the production of collagen and reduce the visibility of skin creases and wrinkles, including the marionette lines.

2. Lifestyle Changes

Following a healthy lifestyle adds to the elasticity of the skin and promotes a clear skin with smooth texture. It is essential to consume a balanced diet that is rich in antioxidants, minerals and vitamins, especially vitamin C and E, that are believed to delay the process of aging. Eating fresh seasonal fruits, vegetables and nuts also promote a healthier skin that is less prone to wrinkling.

Drinking plenty of water ensures adequate hydration from the inside out. It helps in the maintenance of elastic skin and keeps the skin clear from pimples and blemishes.

Smoking and drinking excessive alcohol accelerate the process of aging. These lifestyle habits cause the bodily functions to slow down and contribute to the formation of wrinkles. It is essential to avoid excessive smoking and drinking alcohol that also helps with prevention from marionette lines around the mouth.

3. Facial Massage

Social media influencers and celebrities often advocate adopting a ritual of facial massage or exercises to tone the muscles and reduce the appearance of marionette lines. However, scientific evidence regarding the use of facial exercises to prevent wrinkling is limited and cannot be trusted. Theoretically, it is also possible that these facial exercises increase the blood supply to the face and keep the facial muscles toned (as observed in exercising muscles of the body) and reduce the likelihood of skin creases along with imparting a positive effect on appearance of the skin. A regular blood supply to a certain area of the body means that it gets adequate nutrition along with the release of growth factors as per need, both of which delays aging.

What are the Treatment Options to get rid of Marionette Lines?

Several treatment options are available for the reduction or elimination of the formed marionette lines. These options vary based on invasiveness of treatment, prominence and depth of the crease as well as an individual’s preference. Enlisted below are the available treatment options to get rid of marionette lines, ranging from non-invasive to minimally invasive and invasive procedures.

1. Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are substances that add volume to the areas where injected. As it adds volume upon injecting, it makes the skin taut and smoothen the wrinkles over the it. Commonly used dermal fillers such as Juvéderm and Restylane contain hyaluronic acid are used to treat marionette lines. The results of dermal fillers are immediate and range from 8 to 12 months, depending on the kind of filler injected.

2. Botox Injections

Botox injections contain botulinum toxin that is commonly used to relieve spastic muscles. Botox are injectables relaxes the facial muscles that are common contributors to repetitive facial expressions and formation of marionette lines. The most common facial region for Botox is wrinkles over the forehead, but it is also a useful treatment option for the marionette lines around the mouth.

3. Chemical Peel

Chemical peel is another cosmetic procedure to treat marionette lines. In this treatment option, a certain chemical is applied over the face that adheres to the dead skin underline and cause its removal when the chemical is peeled off. It reveals the underlying smooth, young and elastic skin. The peels used vary in strength and works for both superficial and deep skin needs. It improves the appearance of facial skin creases, wrinkles and marionette lines.

4. Microneedling

Microneedling is a popular cosmetic procedure that is used for a wide variety of skin concerns. This procedure involves the use of a device that has fine needles set on it. These needles create tiny punctures in the skin that stimulates the body’s natural healing process. This procedure stimulates and activates the production of collagen and elastin. The results of microneedling become visible after a period of getting the procedure done in the form of improved texture of the skin and reduction in the visibility of facial wrinkles and marionette lines.

5. Laser

Laser therapies involve the use of focused light energy on targeted regions to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. The results can be obtained with improved skin texture that decreases the wrinkling of skin. Fractional laser therapy is most effective in treating marionette lines that targets specific regions and do not damage the facial area in the surrounding.

6. Thread Lift

It is a minimally invasive procedure that involves insertion of absorbable threads under the skin to tighten the sagging areas. This procedure is effective for mild to moderate marionette lines and give the desired outcomes. The threads used in this procedure also stimulate the production of collagen to provide nature and lasting results.

7. Facelift

Rhytidectomy, or facelift, is an invasive procedure that removes the excess skin. This surgical procedure aims to lift the skin by removing the underlying tissues and muscles to create a youthful facial look. This procedure is recommended for deep marionette lines and those that would not be helped with other treatment options. Facelift is an effective procedure to treat deep marionette lines and other signs of aging that cause sagging skin in the facial and neck regions.

8. Lip Lift

Lip lift is also an invasive procedure that aims to treat the marionette lines by creating a lifted appearance. In this surgical procedure, the vertical distance between the nose and the upper lip is reduced by raising the lateral corners of the mouth. This lift reduces the appearance of marionette lines and proves effective for the cause.

How to Care for and Maintain the Treated Marionette Lines?

After getting done with treatment procedures for marionette lines, it is important to take proper care and maintain the skin to get the best outcomes that are natural and lasting. Enlisted below are some of the maintenance methods recommended by Welzo for individuals seeking lasting outcomes.

1. Skincare

Using a high-quality cleanser for gentle cleansing of the skin is crucial after undergoing treatments such as chemical peels and microneedling. Hydrate the skin with a moisturiser to prevent dryness and reversal of the treatment. Prolonged exposure to sun can reverse the benefits of the opted treatment and cause marionette lines to form. Therefore, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF over 30 to protect against the harmful effects of the UV rays.

2. Follow Up

Skincare experts often advise follow up treatments such as maintenance sessions and treatments for rejuvenation of the skin. Procedures such as dermal fillers and Botox often loses its effect after a certain period, that requires maintenance sessions for a lasting effect. Individuals are provided with a schedule that must be followed so that the treatment proves successful in getting rid of marionette lines. Carbon peels and microneedling procedures are periodic therapies that aim to maintain the elasticity of the skin and grant a youthful appearance. These procedures also require follow up so that any new wrinkles are also treated along the way.

3. Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle modifications help with preparation and maintenance of the elements required for a healthier skin. It is essential to take balanced diet along with plenty of water to keep the skin hydrated, clear and healthy.

Excessive smoking and drinking alcohol must also be quick as it promotes the process of aging and wearing out of the various body systems. Smoking and drinking even after getting the treatments for marionette lines will nullify the benefits of the treatment and reverse it in the form of deepening wrinkles and skin creases. Elevated stress levels cause wrinkling and sagging of the skin and deteriorates the overall well-being. Individuals must practice meditation and mindful exercises to reduce and manage the stress as it also cast harmful effects on the body that reverses the effects of treatment.

People Also Ask

What is the recovery time for a thread lift procedure done to get rid of marionette lines?

The recovery time for a thread lift done to get rid of marionette lines involves a minimal downtime. Most individuals experience minimal swelling and bruising right after the procedure that often fades away after a few days. A sense of mild discomfort, tightness and consciousness of getting done with the procedure also remains for a few days that resolves quickly. Individuals are recommended to get back to their daily activities after a few days, but strenuous activities and facial exercises of massages must be avoided for a week or more. Full recovery and noticeable results are often visible within two weeks after getting the procedure.

What is the difference between smile lines and marionette lines?

Smile lines and marionette lines are two of the various types of facial winkles and skin creases. They differ on the basis of location and formation. Marionette lines typically run from the lateral corners of the mouth in a vertical direction towards the chin, creating a sagging appearance. Marionette lines occur due to the natural process of aging where the skin loses its elasticity after the depletion of skin collagen and elastin.

On the other hand, smile lines extend from the sides of the nose and ends at the corners of the mouth. Smile lines are also known as nasolabial folds that deepens in the facial expression of a smile. These lines are most prominent when an individual smiles or laughs, that also becomes the cause of its occurrence and depth. Both marionette and smile lines are related to the natural process of aging and facial expressions, but their location and extent along with impacts on facial expressions are what sets them apart entirely.

Conclusion

Marionette lines run vertically from the lateral corners of the mouth down towards the chin that gives a dragging appearance. This is a part of the natural aging process. The main causes of formation of marionette lines include depletion of elastin and collagen production as the age advances, genetic inheritance from parents with marionette lines, prolonged exposure to the UV rays from the intense sunlight, lifestyle factors that has unhealthy diet, smoking and excessive drinking of alcohol.

To prevent the formation of marionette lines, one must begin with following a proper skincare ritual that must include a cleanser, moisturiser and a broad-spectrum sunscreen along with intake of plenty of water. It is essential to consume a balanced diet that is rich in antioxidants, minerals and vitamins, especially vitamin C and E, that are believed to delay the process of aging. There are several treatment options available to get rid of marionette lines. The non-invasive procedures to treat marionette lines include dermal fillers, Botox, chemical peel, microneedling and laser therapy. Thread lift is a minimally invasive treatment option that effectively treats the marionette lines. Invasive procedures to treat marionette lines include lip lift and facelift. For post treatment care of skin, Welzo recommends regular skin pampering with high-quality skincare products, taking a balanced diet with plenty of water, quit smoking and drinking and visit the skincare expert for follow up on the treatment procedure opted to get rid of the marionette lines.