Can Botox help with dark shadows around my lips and chin?

What causes shadows around the mouth?

Maybe you've noticed what looks like shadows around the mouth or chin. Maybe you've noticed small dimpling or a crease in the chin when you smile.  Many women think chin shadows are a discoloration of the skin. These shadows appear to be there all the time which is why many of us think it is a skin pigmentation issue. You probably have tried hiding them with makeup without success.

Are chin shadows discoloration or volume loss?

But, almost always, these shadows that you're noticing around your chin and lips are due to volume loss in the prejowl area and the chin. As we age, our face loses fat, collagen and bone density and your facial fat pads can shrink and or drop lower on the face. This contributes to an overall structural change that can lead to small depressions in the skin along the jawline and around the lips and nose. This dimpling of the surrounding skin is what we notice as chin shadows.

Does the cold weather in Colorado affect collagen or the facial fat pads?

While you might like to attribute it to our Colorado winters, low temperatures and low humidity have no direct affect on collagen production or on the fat loss in our faces. Collagen loss is principally caused by UV exposure, diet, and hormonal changes from menopause. And while our skin can look 'thinner' during the winter, it is usually a temporary "slimming" due more to dehydration than to actual loss of fat in our facial pads.

Can dermal filler help chin shadows?

Absolutely. Chin shadows are very common as we age. We can easily treat them with dermal filler (or other biostimulators) and sometimes, depending on what will look best at the time, by placing Botox in the area as well. Dermal fillers, like the ones offered at Muse Medical Artistry, are made of hyaluronic acid, which occurs naturally in our bodies. A dermal filler attracts moisture and helps plump up the skin near the injection point. The overall effect of well-placed dermal filler is the reduction of chin shadows and a more hydrated and youthful appearance. The appeal of a dermal filler is that the effects will last up to 18 months.

Does Botox help reduce chin dimpling?

Botox works differently than a dermal filler to help smooth out the dimpling. Botox, or any of our neurotoxin alternatives, relaxes the muscles which contribute to the fine lines and wrinkles that cause the visible signs of aging. So, while a dermal filler plumps up the skin, Botox relaces the associated muscles in the same areas. This dual treatment approach helps create both short-term and long-term enhancement.

How does a dermal filler treatment reduce for chin shadows?

A dermal filler is used to reduce chin shadows in a procedure called subcision. The first step is to break the small tethers that bind the skin to the underlying tissues. This releases the skin allowing it to 'pop up'. This minimally invasive procedure helps the skin to smooth out naturally. It can also help induce your body to produce new collagen in the area. The second step is to inject threads of dermal filler. These threads are placed strategically to fill in the spaces and correct the shadow. 

Botox vs filler for shadows around the lips and chin

The difference between Botox and a dermal filler is what they do. Botox helps reduce overactive muscle pull. We use the same muscles over and over again to smile or frown. These repetitive or habitual movements cause certain muscles to strengthen over time. Botox relaxes these muscles which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Dermal fillers fill in the empty space following the subcision to smooth out the skin. This helps reverse the loss of tissue volume and the loss of elasticity. Together, they target two different symptoms of facial aging to produce a more youthful appearance. You'll be amazed at the results.

When to schedule a dermal filler consultation in Aurora, CO

If you're considering dermal filler to reduce chin shadows, look for a medical aesthetic spa with Trained Injectors that are experienced in combining Botox and Dermal Filler injections. It's best to schedule a consult in advance and learn about the balancing of the two treatments that will work best for you. And ask to see their Before and After Gallery for previous dermal filler clients.

Check out our Affordable Dermal Filler Pricing

• Anne Mailhot, PA-C

  Anne's aesthetic training includes several intensive trainings from nationally ranked aesthetic providers including Facial Balancing Expert, Dr. Thuy Doan, and a 6 month mentorship with Aere Aesthetics and Neekan Rivera, PA-C. Anne delivers expert treatments for Botox, fillers, and restorative oncology services.