Vermilion border

Vermilion Border

The vermilion border is the normally sharp demarcation between the lip and the adjacent normal skin. It is the area where the pinkish-red lip tissue meets the facial skin. This border is important in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, as it defines the shape and contour of the lips.

Erythema around the lips showing the vermilion border.

Anatomy

The vermilion border is composed of a thin layer of skin that is more translucent than the surrounding facial skin, allowing the red color of the underlying blood vessels to show through. This gives the lips their characteristic color. The border is more pronounced in individuals with lighter skin tones.

The vermilion border is part of the lip anatomy and plays a crucial role in the aesthetics of the face. It is bordered by the vermilion zone, which is the pinkish-red part of the lips, and the cutaneous lip, which is the skin-colored part of the lips.

Clinical Significance

The vermilion border is a key landmark in various medical and cosmetic procedures. It is often used as a guide in lip augmentation and reconstructive surgery to ensure symmetry and natural appearance. Damage to the vermilion border, such as from trauma or surgery, can lead to noticeable cosmetic defects.

File:Commissurebeforeandafter.jpg

Before and after images showing changes in the vermilion border.

Pathology

Conditions affecting the vermilion border include cheilitis, which is inflammation of the lips, and actinic cheilitis, a precancerous condition caused by long-term sun exposure. These conditions can alter the appearance of the vermilion border, leading to cosmetic and functional issues.

Cosmetic Enhancement

Cosmetic procedures such as lip fillers and lip tattoos often focus on enhancing the vermilion border to improve the definition and fullness of the lips. These procedures can help restore the natural contour of the lips and enhance facial aesthetics.

The Cupid's bow is a feature of the upper vermilion border.

Related Pages

• Lip
• Cheilitis
• Lip augmentation
• Reconstructive surgery

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  Erythema around the lips

• Commissurebeforeandafter.jpg

  Commissure before and after

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  Mouth Cupid Bow