Can You Get Rid of Nasolabial Folds (Smile Lines)?

Nasolabial folds, also called smile lines, can be treated with dermal fillers. However, results are temporary and repeat procedures are often required

Nasolabial folds, also called smile lines, are deep wrinkles that appear on the side of the nose and extend to the corner of the mouth. Everyone has nasolabial folds, but they may be more visible in some. 

Nasolabial folds can be treated with dermal fillers. However, results are temporary and repeat procedures are often required for those exploring how to get rid of smile lines.

Fillers are the quickest way to get rid of them, although a combination of nasolabial fold treatments may achieve a more aesthetically pleasing result. You cannot permanently get rid of prominent nasolabial folds because they are an inevitable part of the aging process. Thus, repeat procedures are often required to remove smile lines or reduce their visibility over time.

1. Dermal fillers: Dermal fillers are used as the first-line treatment for nasolabial folds. Dermal fillers help lift the skin and add volume to the area. The most commonly used fillers are calcium hydroxylapatite and hyaluronic acid. Both have been shown to promote collagen growth and plump the skin. There are a few side effect such as minor bruising. This is a popular option in smile lines treatment.
2. Microneedle fractional radiofrequency system treatment: This is the most effective technology for skin rejuvenation and tightening approved by the FDA. It employs minimally invasive microneedles to deliver controlled radiofrequency energy directly into the skin's multiple layers. This heats the tissue and stimulates new collagen production, which promotes skin modeling and helps remove nasolabial folds.
3. Dermapen: Dermapen is a minimally invasive microneedle treatment that helps create deep microchannels in the skin's dermis to stimulate natural collagen production. Minor needle pricks may be felt, but there are very few side effects. It softens fine lines and wrinkles and tightens the skin, which reduces the appearance of nasolabial folds.
4. High-intensity focused ultrasound: Heat energy is delivered to the skin and subcutaneous tissue to stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce sagging. This treatment can help achieve a visible facelift without the use of invasive surgery or injections. It is recommended for almost all skin types because the results are long-lasting.
5. Radiofrequency: A handheld device is used to heat the skin with radiofrequency energy to create a tightening effect. You may feel some heat during the hour-long procedure, and you may need two to six sessions to achieve the desired results. Studies have shown radiofrequency is an effective treatment for middle and lower face laxity.
6. Chemical peels: To improve the appearance of the skin, a light or medium chemical peel can be used to exfoliate the outer skin layers. This promotes skin tightening by increasing collagen production and cell turnover, resulting in brighter, smoother skin. Popular chemical peels include black, yellow, glycolic, and azelaic peels.
7. Thread lifts: Temporary sutures are used to suspend some of the facial skin instead of removing the excess tissue that causes the folds. This can tighten the skin and significantly reduce the appearance of skin folds. The procedure also stimulates collagen production.
8. Laser skin resurfacing: This treatment removes the skin's top layer and corrects minor flaws and blemishes. It is a safe and precise technique to stimulate collagen production and the growth of new skin cells.
9. Surgical removal: A full-face or cheek lift can help reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds. However, this is usually not recommended because surgical procedures may cause complications, and the recovery period is lengthy.
10. Lifestyle habits: According to the American Academy of Dermatology, sunscreen should be used daily, and the skin should be moisturized to reduce folds and improve overall skin quality. For better results, consider using retinol products. Sleeping on your back, getting enough rest, and eating a healthy diet are also important for skin repair.

How to remove smile lines naturally and improve overall skin health

A consistent skincare routine with hydration, sun protection, and facial exercises can help remove smile lines naturally over time. Regular facial yoga or targeted facial exercises can help strengthen the underlying muscles and improve skin elasticity. Movements such as puffing out the cheeks, smiling, resistance exercises, and cheek lifts may gradually reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds. While results take time and consistency, this method is a popular choice for those exploring how to get rid of nasolabial folds without medical treatments.

Nasolabial folds may appear mild at first, but they frequently deepen when you smile or laugh. A variety of factors contribute to the appearance of nasolabial folds, including:

• Sun exposure
• Loss of collagen with age
• Sagging skin
• Smoking
• Exposure to environmental pollutants
• Rapid weight loss or frequent fluctuations in weight

There has been no credible research to support the use of facial exercises to improve the appearance of nasolabial folds. However, in theory, they may help keep facial muscles toned and the skin tight as people age. 

The idea is that, like other muscles, the facial muscles respond to physical exertion. Working out facial muscles will help keep the face structurally sound. Some of the movements recommended are as follows:

• Pout your lips for 20 seconds and repeat 4 times.
• Push your lips upward, hold for 20 seconds, and repeat 4 times.
• Stretch the corners of your mouth outward for 20 seconds and repeat 4 times.

• Can you fix nasolabial folds naturally? Nasolabial folds may be softened naturally by following certain practices such as doing facial exercises that help strengthen cheek muscles, maintaining skin hydration, and using products with retinoids or peptides to improve collagen production. These methods may reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds slightly, but you typically cannot eliminate deep folds without medical treatments.
• Is it normal to have nasolabial folds at 20? It's normal to have nasolabial folds at 20, especially when smiling or due to natural facial structure, genetics, or early signs of volume loss. These lines often become more noticeable with facial expressions. They don't necessarily indicate premature aging.
• Does exercise get rid of nasolabial folds? Facial exercises may help tone the muscles around the cheeks and mouth, potentially reducing the appearance of nasolabial folds slightly over time. However, evidence of their effectiveness is limited, and results vary among individuals.
• Does losing weight reduce nasolabial folds? Losing weight can sometimes make nasolabial folds more noticeable due to loss of facial fat and volume, as facial fat provides natural support to the skin. In some cases, modest weight loss may improve skin appearance, but significant weight loss often makes these lines more noticeable.
• Is the nasolabial fold permanent? Nasolabial folds are a natural part of facial anatomy and tend to deepen with age due to loss of collagen, fat, and skin elasticity, making them more permanent over time. While they cannot be completely prevented, their appearance can be reduced with skincare, facial exercises, or cosmetic treatments such as fillers.
• Why do I suddenly have nasolabial folds? The sudden appearance of nasolabial folds can result from rapid weight loss, dehydration, stress, or changes in facial fat distribution that occur with age or lifestyle changes. Even factors such as sun exposure or poor sleep can speed up collagen breakdown, making these lines more noticeable.