What Are Marionette Lines and Can I Cover Them Up?

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Marionette lines are the wrinkles you may see around your mouth and chin. You may even have sagging skin around the lower part of your face. This area of your face has thinner skin, and so it often wrinkles as you age. 

You don't have to necessarily be old to start to see these types of wrinkles. They can begin to appear as early as your 20s. There are ways you can slow down the signs of aging. There are also marionette lines treatments that you can get that can make a big difference.

We are going to go over the causes of these wrinkles and what you can do to cover them up.

What Causes Marionette Lines? 

Collagen is a protein your body makes to keep your skin smooth and youthful. However, at around 25 years old, your collagen production begins to decrease. As you get older, you start to see more fine lines and wrinkles. Gravity also takes over, and sagging skin makes marionette lines more prominent.

There are other causes of the signs of aging besides the loss of collagen and skin elasticity. Sun exposure over long periods of time can also contribute to wrinkles and skin damage. Poor diet is another cause of wrinkles since not getting enough nutrition can lead to collagen breakdown. Some people will show signs of aging sooner than others since genetics can also play a role in marionette lines. 

No matter what the cause is, many people just want to cover up these wrinkles. Thankfully there are ways to reduce their appearance. 

How To Cover Marionette Lines 

One of the fastest ways to cover marionette lines at home is through makeup. We all know that the proper makeup application can change a person’s appearance drastically. It can hide imperfections and also make wrinkles appear smaller; but remember, it won't make these lines disappear entirely. 

  • Step 1: Find a primer that can fill in fine lines and give the skin an overall smoother texture. If you don't have a primer, you can use a moisturizer to add hydration to the skin. 
  • Step 2: Next, apply a hydrating foundation, like HIDE Premium Foundation. It is a liquid product that easily builds to medium-full coverage and works on any skin type. 
  • Step 3: After foundation, go in with a concealer, like HIDE Premium Concealer, one shade lighter than your foundation. Since wrinkles can cause dark shadows on the face, a slightly lighter shade will brighten your appearance. Dab the product into your skin and avoid rubbing it in since this will only move the product around and not conceal. 
  • Step 4: Allow the concealer to set and then gently dab away any excess product that may have settled into your marionette lines with blotting paper or tissue. 
  • Step 5: Set your face with a setting spray to lock in the coverage all day. 
  • Step 6: Complete the rest of your makeup as you usually would. You can also consider a bolder eye makeup look to take attention away from the lower part of your face. 

Marionette Lines Treatments

Even though marionette lines are a natural part of aging, there are still treatments you can get. However, most are only a temporary fix for wrinkles. Some of these treatments will last longer than others, and many require a professional.

Surgery for Wrinkles 

The only solution that is somewhat permanent is surgery. One common surgery for wrinkles is a facelift. A facelift involves smoothing the skin by tightening facial tissue and pulling it back on the bottom two-thirds of the face. It may also involve removing the skin, but a facelift is usually only considered when other treatment options don't work. 

A facelift is a major procedure, and the recovery time can last for weeks. You should also consider that you can undo your results with significant weight fluctuations and excessive sun exposure. 

Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is a non-surgical option that works by taking off the top layers of skin. The laser is a strong beam of light that destroys the outer layer of skin and heats the second layer of the skin, resulting in collagen production. Once you heal, you will have a smoother even-looking complexion.

Laser resurfacing is not for everyone since it can lead to scarring and hyperpigmentation, so consult a professional before treatment. 

Chemical Peels

Like laser resurfacing, a chemical peel removes the top layer of skin and some of the middle layer. The treatment reduces the appearance of marionette lines. The chemical peel results are due to the new skin cells are stronger than the previous ones. 

The effects only last a short time, and to maintain your results, you may need a chemical peel once a month.

Fillers 

You can get a temporary solution injected into your lines when they are in the beginning stages. These fillers have a plumping effect on the skin that mimics collagen and elastin. It smooths out your wrinkles and gives you an immediate change depending on the type of file you get. 

Hyaluronic acid fillers result in noticeable changes right away. In contrast, poly-L-lactic fillers can take several months to take effect. The filler stimulates the production of collagen over time, so it takes time to see results. 

These fillers are only a temporary fix, and there is some concern that they may leave you with an unnatural appearance. 

Botox 

Botox injections are another common solution and are similar to filler, except botox relaxes your facial muscles. You won't be able to make severe facial expressions, your skin will look smoother, and your wrinkles won't be as prominent. For marionette lines, you will most likely need botox every three to four months.

Preventing Marionette Lines 

The best treatment for marionette lines is preventative treatment. These options can help to slow down the development of fine lines of wrinkles but won't prevent them entirely.

Proper Skincare 

Taking care of your skin on a daily basis can go a long way. Remove any makeup before bed, and use a cleanser to remove any residue left over. Next, apply an anti-aging serum and finish with a moisturizer. 

Limit Sun Exposure 

When you’re young, you won't see the effects unprotected sun protection is having on your skin. However, as you begin to age, all of the sun damage comes to the surface. Too much sun can also break down the collagen and elasticity of your skin, and you may develop fine lines and wrinkles. To prevent damage, always wear sunscreen and think about wearing a hat to shade your face. 

Healthy Diet

A poor diet can result in unhealthy skin. Drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin hydrated. You can also try to eat clean foods, like fruits and vegetables. 

In Summary 

Marionette lines can make some feel self-conscious, but thankfully there are many different options to treat them. You can also take steps to prevent them from happening prematurely. You can implement a skincare routine, drink lots of water, and always wear SPF. 

There are also ways you can cover your marionette lines quickly. With the right technique, makeup can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. HIDE premium products work for all skin types and provide excellent coverage. 

 

Sources:

8 ways to stimulate collagen production in skin | Medical News Today

Marionette Lines: Causes and Proven Treatments for Chin Wrinkles | Healthline

Laser Resurfacing | Mayo Clinic