Understanding and Treating Scars on the Upper Lip Area

Understanding Scars on the Upper Lip

Scars on the upper lip, sometimes called lip scars, can have an emotional impact and may stem from a variety of causes. While upsetting, many discover over time that upper lip scars add character and do not detract from ones appearance as much as initially feared. By understanding the origins of lip scars and exploring treatment options, one can address concerns over these facial imperfections.

Common Causes of Upper Lip Scars

Some typical causes of scarring on the upper lip area include:

• Cuts from falls or accidents that require stitches
• Cold sores that form blisters and recurring scabs
• Burns from hot foods and drinks
• High fevers leading to chapped lips that crack and bleed
• Dermatologic conditions like acne or impetigo that leave scars after healing
• Surgeries like cleft lip repair that require incisions

Treating Facial Scars on the Upper Lip

If troubled by scars on your upper lip, dont lose hope. A range of treatment options exists including:

Silicone Scar Sheets

Silicone sheets applied over new and old scars can flatten and fade scar tissue over time through hydration and pressure. These non-invasive sheets are convenient for use on the sensitive lip area.

Steroid Injections

Injections like Kenalog can help shrink and reduce the appearance of thick, raised scars by suppressing the immune response. Multiple injections into the scar tissue are often needed for optimal results.

5-Fluorouracil

This topical cream works by destroying excess scar tissue leading to a smoother texture and appearance. Like steroid injections, several applications are required with ongoing use encouraged for maintaining improvements.

Dermabrasion and Laser Resurfacing

These professional treatments use techniques to remove outer layers of skin to reduce raised scars and improve surface smoothness. Dermabrasion utilizes a rapidly rotating device, while lasers burn away scarred skin.

Filler Injections

Injectable skin fillers like hyaluronic acid can temporarily reduce the visible depression caused by certain scars. Over time the body absorbs these fillers so repeat injections would be required.

Coping with Noticeable Scars

If scar treatment proves ineffective or cost-prohibitive, focus on self-acceptance and having the healthiest lip skin possible. Proper skincare can improve texture and tone.

Moisturize daily with products containing ingredients like shea butter, aloe, vitamin E or coconut oil. Exfoliate weekly using a soft washcloth to remove dead skin. Always apply SPF lip balm before sun exposure to prevent dark spots.

Using Makeup to Minimize Lip Scars

For quick cosmetic coverage, specialized makeup products can disguise discoloration or uneven texture from scarring.

Primer

Start with a smoothing primer containing silicone to fill in uneven lip texture. Let it soak in before applying concealer and lip color.

Concealer

Liquid or stick concealers, preferably with a slight shimmer, will hide any darkness or discoloration. Use a small brush for precise application just on the scarred portion.

Lip Liner

A nude or pink liner can help define your lip shape, balance asymmetry from scars and prevent bleeding of other lip products. Focus liner application near the outer perimeter of lips.

Matte Liquid Lipstick

For maximum coverage, swipe on a full coverage, matte liquid lipstick in your favorite shade. Avoid shiny or glittery finishes, which emphasize texture. Blot gently before applying a second coat.

Celebrities and Lip Scars

Many celebrities live in the public eye while coping privately with visible lip scars. Everett McGill, Tina Fey, Charlie Yeaggy and Rochelle Wisemen have all experienced the trauma of significant mouth injuries requiring reconstruction.

Actor Everett McGills Story

Veteran screen star Everett McGill suffered severe injuries after being beaten for being gay that resulted in a glass shard severing his upper lip in half. Reconstructive surgery and time restored much of his handsome appearance. Later roles in shows like Twin Peaks had directors filming him from specific angles to showcase his good side without visible scarring.

Comedian Tina Feys Scar

Highly successful writer, actress and producer Tina Fey has a prominent vertical scar running from the corner of her mouth on the left side from a childhood slashing injury. In her autobiography, Fey expressed gratitude her scar would spare her from ever having to pretend shes a knockout. She focuses on confidence through personality and talents instead of appearance.

Actor Charlie Yeaggy Overcomes Burns

During his early acting career, Charlie Yeaggy experienced a car accident involving an explosion leading to 2nd and 3rd degree burns over a large portion of his body, including mouth and chin areas. After 200 operations and years of therapy, Yeaggy regained the ability to smile naturally despite lingering facial scarring.

Model Rochelle Wisemens Dog Bite Injury

English model Rochelle Wisemen suffered severe facial wounds requiring 17 stitches when attacked by a dog as a young child while visiting family friends. The bite penetrated all the way through her lip and into her mouth, leaving permanent scarring. Wisemen eventually regained her confidence after initially being called cruel names by her peers while growing up.

Coping Positively with Upper Lip Scars

Remember that the most beautiful human qualities have little to do with outward appearance. Focus on self-care, being present with loved ones and making a positive difference in the lives around you.

While scars tell a story, they do not define a person nor diminish their inner light and capacity for happiness and fulfillment. Gain perspective by volunteering with those less fortunate. With self-acceptance, what once seemed an imperfection fades gently into the background.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.