Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Vermilion border

The vermilion border is the junction between the vermilion zone—the reddish, exposed portion of the —and the surrounding , marked by a 2- to 3-mm pale ridge known as the , formed by the underlying . This border consists of a thin, non-keratinized , typically 3 to 5 cell layers thick, which is highly vascularized and lacks hair follicles, sweat glands, or sebaceous glands, contributing to its characteristic pink to reddish hue from superficial capillaries and minimal . Anatomically, the vermilion border outlines key features of the lips, including the on the upper and the oral commissures. Embryologically, it develops from the fusion of the frontonasal and maxillary prominences during the sixth to seventh weeks of gestation, with basic lip structures formed by the end of the seventh week; misalignment is a feature in congenital anomalies like , which affects approximately 1 in 700 births.

Anatomy

Gross anatomy

The vermilion border represents the between the cutaneous of the and the , manifesting as a sharply defined reddish line attributable to its thin epithelial layer and prominent underlying . This transitional zone encircles the , distinguishing the dry, exposed vermilion surface from the adjacent and inner mucosa. Positioned on both the upper and lower , the vermilion border extends laterally from one commissure to the other, with greater prominence and definition observed on the upper lip due to its anatomical contouring. Key macroscopic features include the , a subtle pale ridge measuring 2 to 3 mm in width located immediately superior to the border on the upper lip, resulting from the underlying prominence. The upper lip vermilion border further features the , a distinctive M-shaped downward arch at the base of the that enhances aesthetics and . Separating the vermilion from the internal moist mucosa is the wet-dry line, a fine demarcation where openings contribute to the transition between dry external exposure and wet internal lubrication. In adults, the exposed vermilion typically measures 7 to 10 mm in vertical height, varying slightly by and , with the upper often shorter than the lower. This dimension plays a critical role in lip projection, providing the everted, rounded that defines the ' forward prominence and contributes to overall facial harmony.

and microanatomy

The vermilion border is covered by a that exhibits a transitional character, shifting from keratinized on the cutaneous side to non-keratinized on the mucosal side. This lacks the robust keratinization seen in typical , with the reduced to a thin layer of only 3 to 5 cell layers, which contributes to the region's translucency and vulnerability to environmental factors. The in this layer produce eleidin, a clear intracellular protein that enhances the reddish appearance by allowing visibility of underlying structures. A defining feature of the vermilion border's microanatomy is the absence of adnexal structures, including hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands, which distinguishes it from adjacent facial skin and mucosal tissues. This lack of appendages results in reduced lubrication and increased susceptibility to dryness and irritation, as there are no mechanisms for sebum or sweat production to maintain hydration./01%3A_Chapters/1.03%3A_histology_of_the_oral_mucosa) Beneath the lies the , composed of dense, regularly arranged fiber bundles that provide structural support and occupy much of the layer's volume. The features prominent superficial vasculature, with blood vessels positioned close to the dermo-epidermal junction, which accounts for the characteristic red hue of the vermilion through the oxygenation of visible through the thin overlying tissues. Melanocytes are present but sparse in the basal layer compared to surrounding , contributing minimally to pigmentation and further enhancing the region's lighter, reddish tone.00179-2/abstract) The submucosal layer underlying the consists of that transitions toward the , housing minor salivary glands known as labial glands. These glands, primarily serous and mucous in composition, are situated beneath the and provide some moistening to the inner aspects of the , though their influence on the border itself is limited due to the absence of direct ductal openings in this zone.

Vascular and neural supply

The arterial supply to the vermilion border arises primarily from the superior labial artery, a branch of the , which nourishes the upper vermilion, and the inferior labial artery, which supplies the lower vermilion. These arteries form extensive anastomoses across the midline, ensuring robust to the region. Venous drainage from the vermilion border is facilitated by the superior and inferior labial veins, which empty into the ipsilateral veins. In certain individuals, particularly older adults, dilated venous structures known as venous lakes—benign varicosities—may appear as soft, dark blue papules along the vermilion border due to ectatic venules. Lymphatic drainage of the vermilion border directs primarily to the for the upper lip and lateral aspects of the lower lip, while the central portion of the lower lip drains to the submental nodes; the middle portion of the upper lip may also contribute to submental drainage. Sensory innervation to the vermilion border is provided by the (CN V), with the (maxillary division, V2) supplying the upper lip and the mental nerve (mandibular division, V3) innervating the lower lip, resulting in a high density of nerve endings that confer acute to touch and pain. Motor innervation derives from the (CN VII), with buccal branches controlling the orbicularis oris and lip elevators of the upper lip, and marginal mandibular branches innervating the lip depressors of the lower lip to facilitate movements such as puckering and smiling.

Embryology and development

Embryonic origins

The vermilion border of the lips originates from the stomodeal and underlying during early embryogenesis, specifically around weeks 4 to 7 of gestation. The , a primitive oral depression lined by , serves as the central site where facial prominences develop, with the ectodermal layer contributing to the epithelial covering of the future lips and the neural crest-derived providing structural support and growth factors for morphogenesis. The formation of the lips, including the vermilion border, results from the of embryonic prominences. For the upper , the maxillary prominences grow medially and fuse with the medial nasal prominences around the during weeks 6 to 7, creating a continuous structure where the vermilion border emerges at the ectodermal junction of these fused elements. In the lower , the paired mandibular prominences merge at the midline through mesenchymal , establishing the inferior vermilion margin. This process involves epithelial adhesion via molecules like nectins and E-cadherin, followed by in the epithelial seam to allow mesenchymal confluence. The , a key feature of the upper border, arises from the median nasal prominence, which contributes the central portion of the upper lip. During week 6, the bilateral medial nasal processes fuse in the midline, forming the philtral columns and groove that define the superior contour of the border. Incomplete fusion of these prominences can lead to developmental anomalies such as cleft lip, which disrupts the continuity of the border. In unilateral cleft lip, failure of the maxillary and medial nasal prominences to merge results in a gap across the vermilion, while bilateral forms affect both sides; remnants of partial fusion, known as Simonart's band, may appear as a thin bridge spanning the defect. These anomalies highlight the precise timing and cellular coordination required for border integrity. By the end of week 7, lip fusion is typically complete, with vermilion border occurring by week 8 as the ectodermal specializes into its transitional, non-keratinized form.

Postnatal changes

During infancy, the vermilion border exhibits initial fullness and relative definition, with its growth occurring proportionally to overall facial development as the child matures. By , the border begins to refine, achieving sharper demarcation by through continued tissue maturation and skeletal growth. In adulthood, the vermilion border reaches peak prominence and volume during the 20s and 30s, characterized by optimal density and hyaluronan content that support its plump, well-defined appearance. Starting in the 40s, gradual thinning and flattening ensue, primarily due to progressive loss of collagenous fibers in the (correlation with age: r = -0.721, P = 0.003). Aging further accentuates these changes, with vermilion height reducing by up to 50% by age 80, accompanied by blurring of the , increased perioral lines, and diminished vascular supply in the (vessel area decrease: r = -0.626, P = 0.017; vessel number decrease: r = -0.716, P = 0.004). These effects are exacerbated by extrinsic factors such as chronic sun exposure, which degrades and hyaluronan via UV-induced mechanisms, and , which accelerates dermal and barrier dysfunction. Gender variations influence vermilion border characteristics, with females typically displaying relatively fuller and more projected borders compared to males, who exhibit greater overall lip height but less vermilion prominence. Ethnic differences also play a role, as individuals of Asian descent often have fuller vermilion borders than those of descent, reflecting variations in cutaneous upper lip height and tissue volume.

Physiological functions

Sensory roles

The vermilion border of the exhibits a high of mechanoreceptors, including Meissner corpuscles, simple corpuscles, and Merkel cell-neurite complexes (Tastcheiben), enabling fine tactile discrimination such as touch and pressure; these specialized endings number approximately 10–20 corpuscular receptors per mm² in , contributing to the region's exceptional sensitivity compared to surrounding facial skin. In humans, similar mechanoreceptive structures, such as Meissner and glomerular corpuscles expressing like PIEZO2 and ASIC2, maintain densities of 3–5 per mm², with higher concentrations in the upper lip than the lower. This dense innervation supports precise sensory feedback during activities like and speaking, where subtle lip deformations must be detected rapidly. Nociceptors, primarily in the form of free nerve endings, are abundant in the vermilion border's epithelium and underlying connective tissue, providing acute pain detection to protect against mechanical injury or irritants; their proximity to the surface enhances responsiveness, making the area one of the most pain-sensitive regions of the body. sensation is mediated by these same free nerve endings, which respond to changes and aid in regulating oral intake by signaling extremes of or ; thermal thresholds in the vermilion are notably low, with the upper lip showing heightened sensitivity to both warm and cool stimuli compared to adjacent areas. Motor functions of the vermilion border involve coordinated contractions of the , which forms the structural core of the and enables actions like closure, puckering, and protrusion; sensory feedback from trigeminal afferents integrates with motor output to refine these movements, ensuring precision through oligosynaptic reflexes that adjust for perturbations during dynamic tasks. Efferent signals originate from the facial motor nucleus in the , projecting via the to innervate the orbicularis oris, while afferent sensory information from the vermilion travels via the trigeminal nerve's maxillary and mandibular divisions to the trigeminal sensory nuclei, facilitating closed-loop control. In communication, the vermilion border plays a in speech , particularly for labial such as /p/, /b/, and /m/, where bilabial closure requires precise sensorimotor synchronization to produce or nasal sounds; this integration also supports non-verbal expressions like smiling and , relying on sensory cues to modulate muscle for emotional conveyance.

Barrier and protective roles

The vermilion border functions as a transitional barrier between the keratinized and non-keratinized , characterized by incomplete keratinization that permits limited moisture retention while rendering it vulnerable to (TEWL). This TEWL is substantially higher—up to three times that of facial —due to the underdeveloped , yet lower than in the oral mucosa, reflecting its partial barrier role. The incomplete formation of corneocytes in this region compromises the overall integrity of the barrier, contributing to a reduced capacity for water retention and necessitating frequent external to prevent . In terms of pathogen protection, the of the vermilion border acts as a primary physical barrier, supported by its proximity to minor salivary glands that secrete rich in . This hydrolyzes bacterial cell walls, providing chemical defense against microbial invasion on the exposed surface. Additionally, , such as lauric and sapienic acids derived from sebaceous glands near the vermilion, further enhance resistance to s in this vulnerable interface. The vermilion border's thin epithelial layer heightens susceptibility to (UV) radiation, increasing the risk of photodamage and conditions like due to minimal pigmentation compared to adjacent . Mechanically, the vermilion border exhibits elasticity that supports resilience during activities like and speaking, enabling the to maintain oral competence and adapt to repetitive movements. However, its poor water-holding capacity from inadequate corneocyte formation makes it prone to trauma exacerbated by dryness or mechanical habits such as lip-biting, which can disrupt the epithelial integrity.

Clinical significance

Pathological conditions

The vermilion border, as the exposed junction between the lip mucosa and , is particularly susceptible to pathological changes due to its thin , high turnover, and chronic exposure to environmental stressors. Pathological conditions affecting this region often manifest with symptoms such as , scaling, ulceration, or fissuring, and may require for definitive to differentiate benign from malignant processes. Actinic cheilitis represents a common precancerous primarily resulting from cumulative (UV) radiation exposure, especially in fair-skinned individuals with prolonged sun exposure. It typically presents as rough, scaly, or hyperkeratotic patches on the lower lip vermilion border, with potential for induration or in advanced cases. This condition carries a significant risk of progression to , estimated at 10-30% over time, underscoring the need for early intervention through topical therapies or excision. Various forms of directly impact the vermilion border, leading to chronic and structural alterations. Exfoliative is characterized by persistent peeling and of the vermilion , often linked to psychological factors or irritants, resulting in a shiny, appearance. involves painful fissures and cracks at the oral commissures extending to the vermilion border, commonly associated with moisture, nutritional deficiencies, or denture-related . Glandular , a rarer variant, features swelling, eversion, and of the vermilion border due to of underlying minor salivary glands, potentially progressing to ulceration if untreated. Infectious etiologies frequently target the vermilion border's mucosal transition zone. () infection causes recurrent vesicular eruptions along the border, progressing to painful ulcers and crusting, with primary episodes often triggered by stress or . presents as adherent white plaques or erythematous patches on the vermilion, particularly in immunocompromised patients, and can lead to angular involvement if untreated with antifungals. Autoimmune disorders can erode the vermilion border's integrity. , a cutaneous manifestation of systemic lupus, often affects the lower lip border with well-demarcated erythematous plaques, , and central , potentially causing scarring and ulceration; reveals interface dermatitis. Other autoimmune conditions, such as , may present with lacy white lesions or erosions confined to the vermilion. Neoplastic processes are a critical concern for the vermilion border owing to its UV-exposed surface. may evolve into (SCC), the most common malignancy here, appearing as persistent nodules, ulcers, or indurated plaques with a propensity for local invasion and metastasis in neglected cases. occurs less frequently but can erode the border with pearly, telangiectatic borders. , though rare on the lips (accounting for <1% of oral melanomas), arises or from preexisting nevi and exhibits aggressive behavior with rapid vertical growth and poor prognosis if not excised early. Additional pathological entities include , triggered by lip balms, cosmetics, or metals, manifesting as pruritic, eczematous changes with and vesiculation along the border; patch testing aids identification of allergens. Factitial results from repetitive self-inflicted trauma, such as lip biting, leading to irregular erosions and scarring; management involves behavioral intervention alongside topical care. In all these conditions, histopathological examination via remains essential for confirming and guiding therapy, often revealing , , or atypical cellular features specific to the .

Cosmetic aspects

The vermilion border, the distinct junction between the lip's red vermilion zone and the adjacent skin, is central to , as it delineates lip shape and contributes to perceptions of fullness and harmony. A well-defined border enhances the visual prominence of the lips, signaling youthfulness and attractiveness in proportions. Studies indicate that ideal lip often follow a , with ratios such as 1:1.6 or 1:2 for upper to lower lip volume or height, promoting balanced and eversion. Aging impacts the vermilion border's appearance through progressive volume loss in the lip tissue and flattening of the border, leading to a less defined contour and reduced lip projection. These changes result from and degradation, causing the to appear thinner and less vibrant over time. Smoking accelerates this process by promoting perioral wrinkles and pigmentation irregularities that blur the border's sharpness, further diminishing aesthetic appeal. Ethnic variations influence baseline prominence; for instance, individuals of descent often exhibit more pronounced vermilion borders and fuller compared to Caucasians, who may show greater age-related flattening due to thinner initial lip structure. Non-surgical enhancements target the vermilion border to restore definition and volume without invasive procedures. Hyaluronic acid fillers, injected precisely along the border, augment its prominence and create a sharper outline, often yielding natural-looking results lasting 6-12 months. The BOTOX lip flip involves injecting botulinum toxin into the upper lip's orbicularis oris muscle near the border to relax it, causing slight eversion for enhanced fullness and a subtle pout. Topical retinoids, such as tretinoin, can improve border definition by stimulating collagen production and smoothing perioral fine lines, though application requires caution to avoid irritation. Makeup techniques offer temporary enhancement by emphasizing the vermilion border's natural line. Lip liners in shades matching the lip color are applied to trace and slightly overline the border, creating an of greater fullness and without altering the underlying structure. Blending the liner into or ensures a seamless finish, particularly effective for those with subtle age-related blurring. Culturally, the vermilion border holds significance in beauty standards, with Western ideals often favoring fuller, well-defined borders as symbols of sensuality and vitality, influencing trends in cosmetics and enhancements. This emphasis contrasts with some Asian aesthetics, where subtler lip proportions may be preferred, highlighting how ethnic backgrounds shape perceptions of ideal lip prominence.

Surgical interventions

Surgical interventions for the vermilion border primarily address , following oncologic resection, congenital anomalies, and cosmetic enhancement, with techniques emphasizing precise to maintain aesthetic and functional integrity. In cases of , such as lacerations crossing the vermilion border, repair begins with meticulous approximation using interrupted sutures to align the border, as even 1 mm of misalignment can result in a noticeable cosmetic defect. For small defects or gaps, V-Y plasty advancement is employed to mobilize tissue and restore continuity without distorting the lip's contour. Reconstructive procedures are essential for defects arising from cancer excision, where up to one-third of the may be involved, requiring flaps to rebuild the vermilion while preserving oral competence. The Abbé flap, a pedicled cross- transposition from the contralateral , is used for central defects near the commissure, providing well-vascularized that matches the color and texture of the vermilion. The Estlander flap, a variant for commissural defects, rotates from the upper to lower or vice versa, effectively reconstructing the but potentially requiring secondary revision for oral opening. Vermilion advancement flaps, such as mucosal V-Y plasty, are suitable for superficial defects, advancing inner mucosa to recreate the with minimal donor site morbidity. For congenital deformities like unilateral cleft lip, the Millard rotation-advancement technique reconstructs the vermilion border by rotating the medial segment downward and advancing the lateral flap to align the and , achieving symmetry in the . This repair is typically performed between 3 and 6 months of age to optimize growth and minimize scarring, with attention to layering the vermilion mucosa for a natural transition. Cosmetic surgery targeting the vermilion border includes the direct , which involves an incision just above the border to excise a strip of skin, shortening the and increasing vermilion show for enhanced projection. This procedure risks visible scarring along the border and if tissue tension is uneven, necessitating careful suture placement and postoperative monitoring. Throughout these interventions, the vermilion border's rich vascular supply from the superior and inferior labial arteries facilitates rapid healing and reduces risk, though meticulous is required to prevent . Precise preservation of sensory , including branches of the mental and infraorbital nerves, is critical to avoid numbness or , with regional blocks preferred over local infiltration to minimize during . Postoperative emphasizes protection, suture removal at 5-7 days, and serial evaluations to ensure border and function.

References

  1. [1]
    Anatomy, Head and Neck, Lips - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
    Outlining the vermilion borders of the upper and lower lips is a 2 to 3 mm pale convexity known as the white roll, formed by the bulging of the orbicularis oris ...
  2. [2]
    Aging of the Human Lip: Current Knowledge and Clinical Implications
    Jul 30, 2025 · The lip vermilion represents the histological transformation of the facial skin and oral mucosa, and is a hairless, highly vascularized, non‐ ...
  3. [3]
    Lip Measurements and Preferences in Asians and Hispanics: A Brief ...
    Measurements included upper and lower lip vermilion height. Mean female upper vermilion height was found to be 9.09mm and mean lower vermilion height was 9.79mm ...
  4. [4]
    Human lip vermilion: Physiology and age‐related changes
    Apr 8, 2024 · The SC on the lip vermilion is notably thin, comprising only three to five layers—approximately one-third of the thickness of the skin SC. The ...
  5. [5]
    Comparative morphometric analysis of vermilion border epithelium ...
    The basal layer of the vermilion border epithelium occupies 8-11% of the whole epithelium, the spinous layer 59-78% and the horny layer 13-19%.
  6. [6]
    Comparatively Speaking: Lips vs. Skin | Cosmetics & Toiletries
    Sep 14, 2017 · The typically reddish area within this border is the vermilion zone. Its color is due to the presence of eleidin, a clear intracellular protein, ...Strengthen Your Skin, Lift... · Unispheres®: Visual... · How Ifscc 2025 Will Make...
  7. [7]
    Lips and Perioral Region Anatomy: Overview, Histology, Blood Supply
    Jan 27, 2025 · Hair follicles and sebaceous glands are located throughout the lip skin; however, these structures are absent in the vermilion border.
  8. [8]
    Comprehensive histological investigation of age‐related changes in ...
    This article histologically demonstrates the age‐dependent changes of collagen and hyaluronan in the lips dermis, and MYH2 in the lip muscle for the first time.Missing: microanatomy | Show results with:microanatomy
  9. [9]
    Clinical anatomy of the inferior labial gland: a narrative review - NIH
    The inferior labial artery runs along the level of the vermillion borders of the lower lip, mostly submucosally. This position is determined to be between the ...Missing: vermilion | Show results with:vermilion
  10. [10]
    Anatomy, Head and Neck: Labial Artery - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
    The labial arteries branch from the facial artery at the region where the vermillion border of the upper lip meets the vermillion border of the lower lip.
  11. [11]
    Venous Lakes of the Lips Successfully Treated With a Sclerosing ...
    There are many local therapies for treatment of lip venous lake such as surgical excision, cryotherapy, infrared coagulation and laser therapy.
  12. [12]
    Development of the Upper Lip: Morphogenetic and Molecular ...
    Fusion between these prominences involves active epithelial filopodial and adhering interactions as well as programmed cell death. Slight defects in growth and ...
  13. [13]
    Revisiting the embryogenesis of lip and palate development - PMC
    During the sixth week of embryonic development, the medial nasal processes fuse with the maxillary and the lateral nasal processes to form the upper lip (Figure ...
  14. [14]
  15. [15]
  16. [16]
    Cleft Lip and Palate: Embryology, Principles, and Treatment
    Jun 26, 2016 · The maxillary prominences form the lateral lip elements that normally fuse with the philtrum derived from the medial nasal prominence. A failure ...
  17. [17]
    Age- and sex-related changes in three-dimensional lip morphology
    Jul 15, 2010 · Vermilion areas and heights of the lower and total lips progressively increased with age until late adolescence, and then decreased with aging ( ...
  18. [18]
    Age-related changes in the vasculature of the dermis of the upper lip ...
    The redness of the vermilion is thus an important factor affecting interpersonal impressions and face-to-face communication.
  19. [19]
    Lip feminization: A review - ScienceDirect.com
    Typically, the average upper lip height (i.e., from subnasal to stomion) is greater in men than in women (23.6 vs. 20.6 mm, respectively). Still, the vermilion ...
  20. [20]
    Classifications and injection strategy for lip reshaping in Asians
    Aug 17, 2020 · Asian lips are generally fuller than Caucasian lips, for both upper and lower lips, and Asians have a greater cutaneous upper lip height, ...2 Aging Over Lips And... · 6 Type 1: Young Lips With... · 9 Type 4: Aging Lips
  21. [21]
  22. [22]
  23. [23]
    Neuroanatomy, Cranial Nerve 5 (Trigeminal) - StatPearls - NCBI - NIH
    Apr 20, 2024 · The trigeminal nerve is the largest cranial nerve, providing facial sensory innervation and motor impulses to the mastication muscles.
  24. [24]
    The Physiologic Development of Speech Motor Control: Lip and Jaw ...
    This investigation was designed to describe the development of lip and jaw coordination during speech and to evaluate the potential influence of speech motor ...
  25. [25]
    Functional properties of the surface of the vermilion border of the lips ...
    Mar 19, 2004 · The results of the present study demonstrated that the barrier and water-holding functions on the vermilion border of the lip were much lower ...
  26. [26]
    Functional properties of the surface of the vermilion border of the lips ...
    Conclusions: It appears that the incomplete corneocyte formation of the lip surface is responsible for the poor barrier function and water-holding capacity.Missing: keratinization | Show results with:keratinization
  27. [27]
    The power of saliva: Antimicrobial and beyond - PMC - NIH
    Nov 14, 2019 · Saliva is crucial for defense against microbial species, as it is rich in antimicrobial compounds such as hydrogen peroxide, lactoferrin, and lysozymes.
  28. [28]
    Organization, barrier function and antimicrobial lipids of the oral ...
    In all regions, the outer portions of the epithelium provide a protective permeability barrier, which varies regionally. Antimicrobial lipids at the ...Missing: border | Show results with:border
  29. [29]
    The Protective Role of Melanin Against UV Damage in Human Skin
    Skin pigmentation influences the effectiveness of vitamin D3 synthesis in the skin as melanin absorbs UVB photons and competes for them with 7- ...Missing: vermilion border
  30. [30]
    A Quantitative Approach to Determining the Ideal Female Lip ... - NIH
    Feb 16, 2017 · This study assesses the most attractive lip dimensions of white women based on attractiveness ranking of surface area, ratio of upper to lower lip, and ...Missing: youthfulness | Show results with:youthfulness
  31. [31]
    Preferred upper / lower lip ratio and perception of naturally looking ...
    Feb 2, 2024 · We aim to investigate the most popular and wishful upper-to-lower lip ratio among potential fillers patients and correlate the findings with their gender.
  32. [32]
    Perfect Lip Ratio: Achieve Ideal Proportions with Filler Techniques
    how to achieve balanced lips using the 1:1.6 golden ratio, personalized filler techniques, and aesthetic planning.Missing: vermilion cosmetic
  33. [33]
    Facial Aging Process From the “Inside Out” | Aesthetic Surgery Journal
    Dec 16, 2020 · The perioral region loses definition, shape, and fullness as the lips flatten and retrude, the ergotrid lengthens, the vermilion border and ...Missing: variations | Show results with:variations
  34. [34]
    Smoker's Lips: Why You Get Them, How You Can Make ... - Healthline
    Feb 1, 2019 · Reduced blood flow and exposure to tar and nicotine can also cause the melanin in your lips and gums to darken, leading to uneven pigmentation.
  35. [35]
    Stunning Lip Filler Before and After for Vermilion Border – Torrance
    By carefully injecting HA-based fillers into the Vermilion Border, professionals at InjectAbility Clinic can redefine the lips with precision.Missing: flip topical retinoids
  36. [36]
    Achieving Subtle, Defined Lips with Vermilion Border Lip Filler
    The vermilion border is the distinct line where the colored part of the lips (the vermilion) meets the surrounding skin. This boundary is crucial for defining ...
  37. [37]
    What is the Botox Lip Flip Procedure? - Dr. Michele Green M.D.
    In a lip flip, Botox is injected around the edges of the lips or the vermillion border to target the orbicularis oris muscle.Missing: retinoids | Show results with:retinoids
  38. [38]
    Lip Filler Versus “Lip Flip”: Longitudinal Public Interest and a Brief ...
    Feb 12, 2025 · “Lip flips” are ideal for patients who desire fuller lips but do not want lip fillers, have excessive gingival display while smiling, have an ...1. Introduction · 1.1. Lip Filler · 1.2. Lip FlipMissing: topical retinoids<|control11|><|separator|>
  39. [39]
    How to get Rid of Lip Lines | Best Treatments for ... - City Skin Clinic
    Aug 5, 2023 · One of the primary ways retinoids treat lip lines is by stimulating collagen production. This helps restore the skin's youthful elasticity and ...
  40. [40]
    Vermilion Border: Definition, Importance, and Tips - Celesta Korea
    The vermilion border is the subtle yet crucial demarcation between the lips' colored portion and the facial skin.Missing: medical | Show results with:medical<|control11|><|separator|>
  41. [41]
    How To Naturally Enhance Lips Without Fillers
    How to enhance your lips – and make your cupids bow POP! Apply a nude lip liner carefully along the vermilion border. It might feel unnatural at first, as ...
  42. [42]
    Contribution of lip proportions to facial aesthetics in different ethnicities
    Aug 7, 2025 · Asian lips are generally fuller than Caucasian lips, for both upper and lower lips, 2 and Asians have a greater cutaneous upper lip height ...
  43. [43]
    Complex Lip Laceration: Overview, Indications, Contraindications
    Aug 25, 2020 · This area is the focus of repair because even 1 mm of vermilion misalignment may be noticeable. Illustration of the upper and lower vermilion ...Missing: VY | Show results with:VY
  44. [44]
    Repair of Large Lip Vermilion defects with Mutual Cross Lip ...
    Several methods are available to correct vermilion defect including Z-plasties, V-Y advancement, transposition flaps, free grafts, and cross lip flaps.Missing: laceration | Show results with:laceration
  45. [45]
    Lip Reconstruction Procedures Treatment & Management
    Jul 25, 2023 · Abbe flap. Used for repair of defects near the oral commissure, the flap is planned about one-half the size of defect (see image below).
  46. [46]
    Versatility of Abbe-Estlander Flap in Lip Reconstruction
    Abbe-Estlander flap is safe and a reliable flap which is technically simple to perform, and provides functionally and aesthetically pleasing result.
  47. [47]
    Effective method for reconstruction of remaining lower lip vermilion ...
    We describe an efficient technique to large lower lip defects combining mental VY advancement flap and buccal mucosal graft and present our long-term outcomes.Missing: considerations vascularity
  48. [48]
    Millard Unilateral Cleft Lip Repair: Surgical Tutorial for Professionals
    A left unilateral complete cleft lip is repaired with the Millard technique, which employs rotation advancement principles to guide repair.
  49. [49]
    Cleft Lip: Classification, Clinical Features, & Surgical Repair
    Dec 23, 2024 · Cleft lip is a common congenital anomaly caused by incomplete fusion of embryologic structures. Genetic and environmental factors contribute to its formation.
  50. [50]
    Everything You Need to Know About the Lip Lift Procedure
    May 29, 2025 · The direct lip lift also known as vermilion advancement or a 'Gullwing' Lip Lift involves an incision made directly above the vermilion border ...
  51. [51]
    Botched Lip Lift: What Can Go Wrong And How To Avoid It - Saxon MD
    Sep 8, 2024 · While this technique aims to lift more of the lip, it also increases the risk of scarring, asymmetry, and damage to muscle. When too much skin ...
  52. [52]
    Lip Reconstruction Procedures - Medscape Reference
    Jul 25, 2023 · At the vermilion, a rich neural and vascular plexus lies beneath a layer of specialized squamous epithelium, making the vermilion highly ...Missing: vascularity | Show results with:vascularity
  53. [53]
    Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Facial Laceration Repair - NCBI - NIH
    May 26, 2023 · Aligning the vermillion border with an interrupted suture should be the first step in laceration repair and facilitates the appropriate ...