The nasolabial folds are lines that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. They are commonly referred to as ‘smile lines’ or ‘laughter lines’, and are a common ageing-related concern. Most people find they naturally have some sign of nasolabial folds, especially when smiling, laughing (hence the name) or moving the mouth in other ways. When nasolabial folds are a concern that you may wish to treat, the lines or folds at the sides of the mouth will cease to disappear upon facial movement, and will have become permanent.
Nasolabial folds are the result of the ageing process working in two ways.
Levels of collagen and elastin will start to decline when their production slows down. This causes the skin to become weak and thin as volume and elasticity are lost. This is coupled with facial muscles becoming tired from repeated use over the years. When the muscles move and contract they form a groove, often becoming taut as they tire. The skin will settle into the groove when it moves with the muscle, and as weak skin is less likely to bounce back, will remain in the furrow. Nasolabial folds will often progress over time, becoming more pronounced. Their development can be contributed to by sun exposure (when the skin is not adequately protected), lifestyle choices such as smoking and alcohol consumption, and genetics.
The One Clinic often recommends the use of dermal fillers to help volumise the skin and reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds. Anti-wrinkle injections are effective when relaxing the muscles and softening facial movement, from which nasolabial folds can arise.
To find out more about our treatments for improving nasolabial folds contact the clinic and book a consultation.
