Nasolabial folds are creases on both sides of the nose that extend to the corners of the mouth. They are a natural part of aging. Some people call them smile lines because they form in the same place where your cheeks and mouth move when you smile or laugh.
While happy expressions cause these lines, not everyone is happy to have them appear on their face. You can choose from a variety of treatments, such as filler for smile lines, without resorting to a facelift.
How To Treat Smile Lines
If you’re looking for a laugh lines treatment to achieve a more youthful look, here are a few different options.
Botox
Botox is a neuromodulator made from botulinum. Similar products include Dysport and Daxxify. These popular injectables work by temporarily immobilizing and relaxing the facial muscles. When the muscles are relaxed, the skin above them looks smoother, and creases aren’t as visible. The rejuvenating effects of Botox may also prevent expression lines from getting more pronounced.1
Your aesthetician can target the area where creases are most prominent to reduce their appearance. Another technique that is growing in popularity is Botox in the Depressor Anguli Oris (DAO) muscles beside the mouth, which may droop with age. Injections can lift the area, reducing fine lines and the “sad mouth” look.2 The effects of Botox last about three months.
Dermal fillers
Dermal fillers are injectable treatments that increase volume beneath the skin. Popular brands include Juvederm, Restylane, and Radiesse.
Using fillers for smile lines is an effective way to smooth them out and create a youthful appearance around the mouth. The results are immediate — you can typically see noticeable changes after your appointment. Fillers can last anywhere from six months to a year or more, depending on the brand and type of filler.3
Retinoids
Retinoids are a type of Vitamin A and can be an effective topical anti-aging ingredient. You can find retinoid products over the counter, but many people prefer prescription-strength formulas for greater effects.
Retinoids work by increasing cell turnover, which also boost collagen production.4 This makes skin look fuller and firmer, reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
Results are gradual. It may take over 6 months of regular use before you see a difference. If you use retinoid products, be sure to use sunscreen, as retinoids can increase the risk of sunburn.
Laser procedures
Laser therapies are non-invasive procedures that can help get rid of smile lines. Popular options include radiofrequency treatments like Thermage or ultrasound treatments like Ultherapy.5
Radiofrequency treatments don’t penetrate as many layers of skin as ultrasound therapies. Both treatments use a laser wand to glide across your face. The light waves produce heat, which then stimulates collagen production to give skin an overall firmer appearance. You may need multiple treatments, and it may take several months to see visible results.
To learn more about injectable treatments, check out more articles at My Filler Treatment.
SOURCES:
- Cleveland Clinic: “Nasolabial Folds (Smile Lines).”
- Aesthetic Surgery Journal: “Creating Lift in the Lower Face With Botulinum Toxin A Treatment: An Anatomical Overview With Videos and Case Studies Illustrating Patient Evaluation and Treatment.”
- HealthLine: “What Are Nasolabial Fold Fillers?”
- Harvard Health Publishing: “Do retinoids really reduce wrinkles?”
- American Academy of Dermatology Association: “Many Ways To Firm Sagging Skin.”