How to care for the skin around your mouth

The skin around the mouth is biologically different from the rest of the face. Here, the epidermis is thinner, with fewer natural oil glands and expression lines that deepen with repetitive movements. Chronic dryness, flaking, and fine lines appear more quickly in this area than in other parts of the face.

Specific care for this region doesn't require investing in specialized products, but rather a consistent routine and correct application technique. The challenge lies in hydrating without overloading and using ingredients that respect the sensitivity of this delicate skin.

1. Cleanse with upward movements. Use a gentle cleanser, preferably a neutral milk or gel. Apply to the area around your mouth with your ring fingers, which naturally exert the least pressure. Make upward movements, from your chin towards your nose, following the skin's natural expression lines. Rinse with lukewarm water and gently pat dry, never rub.
2. Tone if necessary. If your skin around your mouth is dry, apply a hydrating toner or floral water. If your skin is oily, use a gentle astringent toner. Apply with a cotton pad or directly with your fingers, using light upward movements. Let it dry naturally for about thirty seconds before moving to the next step.
3. Moisturize with a suitable cream. Choose a more concentrated moisturizer than what you use on the rest of your face. Apply a small amount, equivalent to a grain of rice, to the tip of your ring finger. Gently distribute it around your mouth, under your lips, and in the small lines beside your mouth. Use gentle movements, with virtually no pressure, allowing the cream to spread naturally. Never rub or force the product into the skin.
4. Use a denser nighttime treatment. At night, after applying your cream, apply a facial serum or oil to the area. Use the same small amount and the same gentle application technique. Serums with hyaluronic acid or plant oils like rosehip work well here. The nighttime product can be slightly more concentrated because the skin spends hours without movement and external contact.
5. Exfoliate gently. Once or twice a week, after cleansing, use a very gentle exfoliant, such as fine sugar or rice powder. Mix with a little water or a hydrating product to form a paste. Very gently massage the area around your mouth for a maximum of thirty seconds, then rinse and proceed with your normal routine. Never use abrasive or coarse-grained exfoliants on this sensitive area.

Consistency matters more than expensive products. A simple routine performed daily transforms the skin.