A mouth that naturally turns downward at rest can be highly frustrating. It is a common sign of ageing, caused by the loosening of facial tissues. However, it can be problematic for people who subconsciously portray a sad expression externally, while they feel internally quite happy and content.
This can have a surprising impact on those around. Our facial expressions are powerful tools for communicating emotions. In many cultures, a downturned mouth is associated with negative emotions such as sadness, anger or disappointment. It is also a common expression of disapproval or frustration. So patients sometimes report that people are treating them with undue concern or caution due to their unconscious expression.
Therefore how you look may unintentionally have an impact on how those around relate to you; which can contribute to the perception of aging as a negative experience.
4 ‘Unemotional’ Causes of a Downturned Mouth
There are a number of potential physical reasons for downturned mouth which have nothing to do with sadness or anger, but it’s important to note that it’s not solely caused by age. Other factors, including facial expressions, muscle tone, and underlying health conditions, can also contribute.:
- Ageing Process:
The skin naturally loses volume and elasticity as we get older. This leads to a sagging appearance and in the lower face, one of the more noticeable results is a downturned mouth. - Muscle Weakness:
As we age, our facial muscles naturally lose elasticity and tone. Weakened facial muscles can contribute to a downturned mouth. - Weight Loss:
For those who lose significant amounts of weight, the loose skin combined with the effects of gravity can create a downturned expression. - Facial Expressions:
Over time, repeated facial expressions can create lines and wrinkles, including those around the mouth. This can reinforce the appearance of a downturned mouth. - Underlying Health Conditions:
Certain health conditions may also affect facial expressions.
Treatments for a Downturned Mouth
The good news is that there are a number of potential treatment options to smooth out the downturned mouth to restore a more neutral expression.
At-Home Options:
- Facial Exercises: Regular facial exercises can help strengthen facial muscles and improve tone.
- Topical Products: Anti-ageing creams and serums containing ingredients like retinol or hyaluronic acid can help improve skin elasticity and hydration. These types of products are prescription cosmeceutical skincare, not available on the high street.
Non-Surgical Options:
For a more intensive treatment, there are now a number of options in cosmetic anti-ageing treatments. Injectables are a good option for tackling lines and creases, while energy-based devices can work to stimulate production of new collagen and elastin for regeneration that provides a rejuvenating lift to the treatment area”
- Dermal Fillers:
Dermal fillers are injected into the facial tissues to add volume and fullness. By strategically placing fillers in the cheeks and lips, they can help to counterbalance a downturned mouth, creating a more youthful and balanced appearance. - Botox:
Botox is a neuromodulator that relaxes facial muscles. When injected into specific areas around the mouth, it can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and lines, including those that contribute to a downturned mouth. By temporarily paralyzing the muscles, Botox can create a smoother, more lifted appearance. - Ultherapy:
Ultherapy is a non-invasive ultrasound treatment that stimulates collagen production in the skin. By targeting deep tissue layers, Ultherapy can help to improve skin laxity and sagging, including around the mouth. This can lead to a more lifted and youthful appearance. - 8-Point Facelift:
An 8-point facelift is a non-invasive procedure that involves lifting and tightening the facial tissues using careful placement of dermal filler injections. By addressing sagging skin in the mid and lower face, this procedure can help to improve the appearance of a downturned mouth. Elite clinics such as Mulberry House Clinic now offer the more sophisticated multi-point facelift, which uses highly tailored placement of fillers fine-tuned to the individual’s requirements. - Non-Surgical Facelift:
Non-surgical facelifts can be a combination of treatments, potentially including radiofrequency therapy and laser resurfacing alongside use of dermal fillers to replenish lost volume and provide strategic ‘lifts’. These procedures can help to tighten and lift the facial tissues, improving the overall appearance and potentially addressing a downturned mouth.
Surgical Options:
- Facelift: A facelift can address sagging skin and underlying muscle laxity, including in the mouth area.
- Lip Lift: A lip lift can help raise the corners of the mouth, creating a more youthful appearance.
Expert advice on anti-ageing treatments
Dr John Tanqueray, MB BCh MRCGP DCH DRCOG DipOccMed BCAM is a highly experienced medical professional with a wealth of knowledge in anti-aging treatments. With over two decades of experience in injecting procedures, he brings a unique perspective to the field. A former GP, Dr. Tanqueray also understands the importance of a holistic approach to healthcare, considering both medical and aesthetic needs.
As the founder and medical director of Mulberry House Clinic, Dr. Tanqueray has played a pivotal role in establishing and maintaining a reputable clinic that specialises in anti-ageing treatments. His expertise and leadership have contributed to the clinic’s success in providing high-quality, personalised care to its patients. His commitment to patient satisfaction and his dedication to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field make him a trusted authority in the area of anti-ageing medicine.
Book a consultation to benefit from a detailed skin assessment along with informed and personalised advice on the most appropriate anti-ageing treatments or products.
Mulberry House Clinic
Established 2003
Mulberry House Clinic has an excellent reputation in the Northampton area as an independent, doctor-led practice with over 20 years experience. Dr John Tanqueray is a former GP who can assess and diagnose skin conditions from a medical perspective before suggesting the most appropriate treatments.
A private consultation is the starting point for all patients in order to facilitate a full discussion about the desired results as well as detailed facial and skin assessment. Find out more about first consultation.
For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please complete our contact form, call 01604 702630 or email: info@mulberryhouseclinic.co.uk.
