01-06-2025
The everyday item that could be giving you WRINKLES - as experts compare the effect to 'smoker's lines'
People spend a lot of money trying to banish wrinkles, from expensive face creams to LED face masks and even face lifts.
But an everyday item could be giving you fine lines – without you even realising it.
While drinking plenty of water every day is great for hydration, it might not be so good for the delicate skin around your mouth.
Especially if you're repeatedly using a spout or straw, which could be accelerating the onset of wrinkles.
Dr Kate Jameson, Medical Director at Youth Lab Australia, said the movement mimics the same motion that causes 'smoker's lines' – fine wrinkles that form around the lips due to repetitive puckering.
'Many people are diligent about skin care but unknowingly contribute to premature ageing through daily habits,' she said.
'Regular use of straw-based bottles encourages the same muscle contractions that lead to perioral lines, which can become deeper over time.'
While occasional usage won't cause immediate damage, Dr Jameson said months or years of repeated use can contribute to collagen breakdown, especially for those already prone to fine lines or dehydrated skin.
'Lip wrinkles are one of the first signs of ageing, and because the skin around the mouth is thin, it's particularly vulnerable to forming deep-set lines,' she explained.
'If you're using a straw-top bottle every day, you may start seeing signs of ageing sooner than expected.'
Simple changes to prevent premature ageing include sipping from an open cup or bottle where possible.
Keeping lips hydrated with hyaluronic acid-based balms can also help, as well as applying SPF to the lips daily.
Meanwhile skincare treatments such as retinol or in-clinic procedures such as laser resurfacing or dermal fillers can smooth out existing lines, Dr Jameson added.
'Staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your skin, but the way you drink matters too,' she said.
'If you're relying on a straw-top bottle all day, it's worth switching up your habits to protect your skin long-term.'
Smoker's wrinkles are tiny vertical lines that form across the lip area, often stretching from one side of the mouth to the other.
This results in an uneven and cracked appearance that can make a person's lower face look prematurely aged.
Other causes of these wrinkles can be repeated facial expressions such as pouting, as well as playing musical instruments such as the recorder or harmonica.
After the age of 20, the human body produces around 1 per cent less collagen and elastin each year – essential proteins that keep skin supple and hydrated.
This is why we develop wrinkles as we age, as skin is less able to 'snap back'.
