Smile Lines: Causes & Care for Nasolabial Folds

Smile lines, also known as Nasolabial Folds, naturally appear with age. Find out what causes them and how you can reduce their appearance

What are Smile Lines?

Nasolabial folds, also known as smile or laugh lines, are creases that run from the sides of your nose diagonally downwards to the corners of your mouth. Smile lines are a type of dynamic wrinkle, meaning they appear more prominent when making facial expressions.

Smile lines can be viewed as a sign for celebration, having enjoyed a life with lots of laughter and joy! But if you feel self-conscious about or don’t like the look of your nasolabial folds, there are a number of methods available to help reduce the look of laugh lines. Read on to learn more about what causes smile lines and how to help reduce their appearance.

What causes smile lines?

The underlying cause of smile lines is long-term repeated folding of the skin from facial expressions combined with a decrease in the amount of collagen and elastin present in the skin as we age. As skin naturally becomes less elastic and supple, this allows wrinkles to form. Although smile lines naturally occur with aging, nasolabial folds can be deepened by internal and environmental stressors such as UV damage, smoking, and weight changes.

Recap: Why is Collagen important for the skin?

Collagen is a protein that we naturally produce that provides structure, strength and support throughout our body. Abundant levels of collagen help to keep skin firm and supple.

The following are all possible causes or contributors to the appearance of laugh lines:

Age
From as early as age 20, the skin begins producing less collagen each year in a process called intrinsic aging. Lower levels of collagen lead to wrinkling and sagging skin. Our facial structure also changes with age. Cheekbones can begin to flatten as bone and muscle density change, causing skin and tissue on the bones to sit differently.
Sun Damage (Photoaging)
When UV rays penetrate the skin, they disturb processes that affect the skin’s growth and appearance. In the short-term, sun damage can cause sunburn. Long-term exposure to UV rays can negatively affect the skin and the connective tissue beneath it, leading to the appearance of wrinkles, lines, and dark spots.
Smoking
Nicotine and other harmful substances in cigarette smoke can have a negative influence on skin and lead to signs of wrinkling and premature aging. Studies have further shown that skin in nasolabial folds is more obvious in smokers than in non-smokers, and that facial expressions made while smoking such as pursing the lips can further contribute to wrinkles around the mouth.
Changes in Weight
When losing a significant amount of body fat, it’s common to experience loose or sagging skin, which can accentuate the appearance of facial lines. When gaining a significant amount of body fat in the face, having larger cheeks can also increase the appearance of laugh lines.

Dehydrated Skin
Dehydrated skin is different than dry skin: it refers to a lack of water as opposed to a lack of natural oils. One of the characteristics of dehydrated skin is a sunken or shadowy complexion, causing wrinkles to be more defined. Thankfully, this is a temporary issue. With proper hydration, the cosmetic effects of dehydration can be alleviated.
Genetics
The amount of Collagen and Elastin you produce is influenced by your genetic makeup. If your parents had prominent nasolabial folds, chances are you will also get them.
Repetitive Facial Expressions
Smile lines initially appear as dynamic wrinkles when you laugh or smile. Over time these repetitive expressions can cause the dynamic wrinkles to become static as skin loses its ability to snap back into place.
Pollution
Air pollution is an environmental stressor that, when combined with other environmental stressors, can cause premature aging in the skin. Studies have shown that air pollution can be linked to extrinsic skin aging.
Sleep Deprivation
They don’t call it “getting your beauty sleep” for nothing. Skin enters its natural regeneration and repair process as you sleep, rebuilding its defensive barrier and producing Collagen. Studies have shown that chronic poor sleep quality is associated with increased signs of intrinsic ageing and diminished skin barrier function.

How to reduce the appearance of smile lines

Without undergoing potentially costly and invasive treatments, there is no way to completely get rid of smile lines. There are, however, plenty of ways to reduce their appearance, including topical creams, facial massages and light therapy.

Here’s how to help reduce the look of laugh lines:

1. Topical Day Creams

NIVEA Anti-Wrinkle + Moisture Replenishment Q10 Power Day Cream combines antioxidant Q10 with organic argan oil to keep skin deeply moisturized and to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for visibly rejuvenated, younger-looking skin. This anti-wrinkle day cream intensively nourishes skin for 24 hours and provides visibly firmer skin in as little as 2 weeks with regular use. Also available for sensitive skin in a fragrance-free version.

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2. Topical Night Creams

Along with an effective day cream, using a night cream like NIVEA Q10 Power Anti-Wrinkle + Moisture Replenishment Night Cream can help rejuvenate the appearance of skin overnight when it’s most receptive. Specially made for skin that becomes drier with age, this non-greasy formula combines antioxidant Q10 with nourishing argan oil to moisturize your skin for 24 hours. Plus, it visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles for firmer-looking skin in as little as 2 weeks with regular use.

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3. Serums

NIVEA Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Night Repair Ultra Serum Night Recovery with pure co-enzyme Q10 in double concentration (compared to NIVEA Q10 Day & Night Anti-Wrinkle Range) replenishes skin with the power to help the skin’s own natural nightly repair process to reduce moisture loss, for visibly hydrated, rejuvenated skin. Enriched with Pro-vitamin B5, this night serum leaves skin feeling well-hydrated and looking firmer with a youthful radiance after just 1 night. Deep wrinkles are visibly reduced after 14 nights of using this face serum, and further improvements can be seen after 2 additional weeks with nightly use.

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4. Facial Massages and Exercises

There are claims that facial massages and facial exercises can help reduce visible signs of aging, claiming that massaging can stimulate Collagen production and facial exercises can strengthen the muscles on the face, helping to make smile lines appear less prominent. Although clinical evidence of success is limited, there is no harm in giving your face a regular massage or trying facial exercises to try and reduce the appearance of smile lines.

5. Light Therapy

LED light therapy is used to treat several skin concerns and conditions. During treatment LED light penetrates the skin in an attempt to boost regeneration, reducing signs of aging. Generally, regular sessions of therapy alongside a skincare routine are needed to see benefits. Consult a dermatologist for advice on this anti-aging therapy.

6. Surgical or Cosmetic Solutions

Probably the most effective, yet least natural way to get rid of nasolabial folds is cosmetic treatments. These range from cosmetic fillers and micro-needling to full facelifts. It is recommended to try skincare routine and natural solutions before proceeding down this route. When considering anything invasive, consult your doctor for further advice.

NIVEA Q10 Targeted Wrinkle Filler to Reduce the Look of Nasolabial Folds

For those moments where you want temporary results quickly, NIVEA Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Specialist Targeted Wrinkle Filler provides dual-action benefits by visibly reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in just 5 minutes*, and by providing long term deep treatment to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles with regular use. Formulated with pure Q10 and Bioxifill® Peptides, this targeted wrinkle filler penetrates skin 10 layers deep** to make skin look younger and fight the look of stubborn wrinkles***. Use this targeted wrinkle filler on crow’s feet, nasolabial folds (smile lines), lip lines, and forehead wrinkles for radiant, healthy-looking skin. Work this solution into part of your anti-aging face care routine, after cleansing and before applying your moisturiser to see a reduction in smile lines over time.

*Temporarily visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles by forming a hydrating film on the skin's surface.
**in upper epidermal layers.
***in vitro test. ~ Self grading (Score), 4 weeks study with 41 women, 2022

Q10 Targeted Wrinkle Filler

Coenzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant. The NIVEA Q10 range has been carefully created to meet the needs of different skin types. Including these products in your skincare routine can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.

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Can You Prevent Nasolabial Folds from Forming?

Unfortunately, you cannot prevent smile lines from forming. They are a natural part of aging and even children have them when they laugh or smile. There are things you can do to prevent them from deepening, which generally means avoiding the causes.

To try and prevent the deepening of smile lines, you can:
Avoid smoking
Apply SPF everyday
Eat a healthy diet
Have a personalized skincare routine that you stick to
Get 7-9 hours sleep each night
Keep hydrated

How to Massage Nasolabial Folds

In an effort to reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds naturally, you can give them a massage every day. Massaging aims to improve skin structure and prevent sagging, though evidence is limited on its effectiveness. Still, it doesn’t hurt to try, and feels nice in the process!

Here are a few tips for how to massage your face to target laugh lines:
Using your knuckles, swipe downwards from your cheekbones to your chin and back
Repeat this process approximately 20 times on each side of your face
Apply a light amount of pressure
Repeat every day as part of your skincare routine

Facial Exercises to Try & Reduce Nasolabial Folds Naturally

Muscles on the face can be toned like elsewhere on the body, helping to better control expressions. Some believe that when repeated over time, you may see a reduction in smile lines, though evidence to support this claim is limited. Still, as with facial massage, you can give the following a try every day without risking any harm:

Push your lips upwards as though you are trying to kiss the sky and hold for 15-20 seconds. Repeat 5 times.
Pull the corners of your mouth apart with your index fingers whilst contracting your facial muscles in slight resistance. Hold for 2-3 seconds and repeat 30 times.
Pout your lips whilst pulling the corners of your mouth out. Hold for 15 seconds and repeat 5 times.
Gently lift your cheekbones using the palms of your hands whilst pouting your lips out in a kissing motion. Hold for 20 seconds and repeat 5 times.

How to Reduce Nasolabial Folds for Men

Men’s skin structure is slightly different than women's, so therefore it requires different care. Most broad skincare advice still applies, but what men put on their faces should reflect the needs of their skin.

NIVEA Men Active-Age™ Face Moisturizer is an anti-wrinkle cream for men containing Hyaluronic Acid to visibly reduce the look of wrinkles while providing 24 hours of moisture. This anti-wrinkle cream visibly firms skin around the face and neck for a healthy, younger-looking appearance. Pair with NIVEA Men Active-Age™ Eye Cream.

NIVEA Men Active-Age™ Face Moisturizer

Further FAQs on Smile Lines

In case you still have any questions about smile lines, here are a few more common questions and answers on the topic:

Smile Lines/Nasolabial Folds - FAQ

At what age do smile lines appear?

Smile lines appear at any age as dynamic wrinkles; however, they begin to appear more static between the ages of 25-30. As Collagen production slows, they begin to deepen. At age 40 they will generally be visible on most people's resting face, and at age 50 will be more pronounced.

Who is more likely to get smile lines?

While everyone will eventually get smile lines as they age, those taking better care of their skin may see them appear more faintly or later in life; whereas those exposing their skin to more contributing factors to premature aging will likely aquire them earlier and deeper. Genetics will also influence who has more pronounced smile lines.

Are smile lines attractive?

Yes, smile lines can definitely be considered attractive! Smile lines can be seen as a sign of having lived a rich life full of laughter and joy. Smile lines can also be a defining facial characteristic and part of someone’s unique facial features like dimples or freckles.

Does losing weight reduce nasolabial folds?

Gradual weight loss can decrease the prominence of smile lines as cheeks will not be so full. Rapid and significant weight loss can make them appear more pronounced though due to excess or sagging skin.

How to sleep to avoid nasolabial folds?

To reduce creasing your facial skin while you sleep, try to sleep on your back or without the lower half of your face touching the pillow. Also, make sure to apply a night cream before putting your head down for the night.

Does stress cause nasolabial folds?

Stress has all sorts of effects on the skin, one of those being accelerated signs of aging. Stress hormones like cortisol break down the collagen and elastin in skin and interfere with rejuvenation, which can speed up the aging process causing more fine lines and wrinkles.

Does alcohol affect nasolabial folds?

Alcohol consumption can contribute to deeper nasolabial folds. One of the effects of alcohol is dehydration, which can cause the skin to lose its elasticity and begin to droop, and skin damage, which, over time can contribute to signs of aging.

Does Hyaluronic Acid help nasolabial folds?

Skincare products formulated with Hyaluronic Acid can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles depending on the overall product formula. Hyaluronic acid is commonly found in moisturizing skincare products. Bringing hydration to the skin can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles when skin is dehydrated.