Nasolabial folds are also known as smile lines because they are more apparent when you smile or laugh. These lines are normal with increasing age, but some people may have deeper lines before they age, making them bothersome.
Smiling and laughing makes life cheer, but if the presence of their lines bothers you, you are not alone. Many people look out for prevention and treatments. However, knowing their cause and their appearance is also a common concern.
Let’s explore the causes of nasolabial folds and the available preventions and treatments.
What Are Nasolabial Folds?
Nasolabial folds are two creases/folds that run from each side of the nose to the corner of your mouth. They are also commonly referred to as laugh or smile lines.
These folds are a normal part of human anatomy and become more prominent with age due to several factors. They start as subtle lines that are visible when you smile or laugh. Over time, these lines can deepen and become permanent, visible even when the face rests.
What Causes Nasolabial Lines?
The causes of nasolabial folds include the following:
1. Increasing Age
The primary cause is the natural ageing process. As we age, collagen and elastin decrease, and the skin loses structure, making the folds more noticeable.
2. Sun Damage
Long-term exposure to UV rays accelerates the skin’s ageing and breaks down collagen fibres, which can deepen these lines.
3. Genetics
Your genetic makeup also influences the appearance of these lines. You’re also prone to have them if your parents or siblings have them.
4. Facial Expressions
Repeated facial movements and expressions can cause the skin to fold and crease, leading to more prominent lines over time.
5. Weight Changes
Significant weight loss can cause sagging skin, while weight gain can add volume to the cheeks, making the folds more pronounced.
6. Smoking
Smoking accelerates skin ageing by reducing blood flow and depleting essential nutrients.
Tips To Prevent Nasolabial Lines
Now that you know the causes, let’s discover tips for preventing the formation of creases from your nose to your mouth.
1. Use SPF Daily
Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily protects your skin from harmful UV rays. It prevents faster skin ageing.
2. Follow a Consistent Skincare Routine
Maintain your skincare routine. Use retinoids, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid products to promote cell turnover, moisturise, increase collagen production, and protect against damage.
3. Perform Facial Exercises
Regularly perform facial exercises targeting the muscles around the mouth and cheeks. Cheek lifts and lip puckers are exercises to look younger and prevent these lines. Exercise strengthens facial muscles and can reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds.
4. Keep Yourself Hydrated
Drink eight glasses of water daily to maintain hydration. Hydrated skin is flexible, and deep lines are less likely to form.
5. Eat Healthy
Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Berries and leafy greens are high in antioxidants, which help protect the skin from damage.
6. Sleep On Your Back
Use a supportive pillow that eases back sleeping to minimise pressure on your face. This can help gravity work against laugh lines. Switching sides regularly to avoid deepening lines can also help if you’re a side sleeper.
7. Say No To Smoking
Quitting smoking improves overall health. It also gives your skin enough blood supply and essential nutrients and slows skin ageing.
8. Stay In Touch With Your Skin Doctor
Schedule annual check-ups with a dermatologist to discuss your skincare routine and address any concerns early. Professional advice helps you maintain good skin health and prevent premature ageing.
All these tips can prevent premature ageing and help your skin look young. However, if your nasolabial folds are deep and you want quick fixes, you may consider professional treatments.
Nasolabial Fold Treatment
Professional treatment can help your nasolabial folds disappear quickly and for longer. You may consider the following surgical and non-surgical treatments:
Non-surgical Options To Remove Nasolabial Folds
Dermal Fillers
Common fillers include hyaluronic acid (Juvederm, Restylane), calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse), and poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra). Nasolabial fold fillers add volume beneath the skin and smooth out wrinkles and folds. They typically involve a series of injections, and the effects can last from six months to two years, depending on the type of filler used.
Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing uses a concentrated laser beam to improve skin health, texture and tone by increasing collagen production. You may need multiple sessions to get the optimal results. Laser treatment may cause temporary redness or swelling. Sunscreen use is crucial post-treatment
Topical Treatments
Topical treatments are often the first line of defence and include products with retinoids, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C. Retinoids, derived from vitamin A, are known to promote cell turnover and boost collagen production, moisture and antioxidant effect, thereby reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Surgical Options For Nasolabial Folds
Facelift
A facelift is an invasive surgery with a longer recovery period. However, it provides more dramatic and long-lasting results. It involves elevating, tightening, and fixing the underlying muscles and skin to reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds. There is a higher risk of complications than non-surgical options; however, the results can last many years.
Cheek Lift
Similar to a facelift, it carries surgical risks and requires downtime for recovery. It specifically targets the mid-face area to lift and reposition the cheeks, reducing nasolabial folds. It is an invasive surgery with a recovery period but offers significant and lasting improvement.
Nasolabial Folds Are Normal And Treatable.
They naturally develop with age. Factors like sun damage, genetics, facial expressions, weight changes, and smoking can deepen these lines. Preventative measures include using sunscreen, following a skincare routine, doing facial exercises, staying hydrated, eating well, sleeping on your back, and avoiding smoking.
Non-surgical options like dermal fillers in Leeds, laser resurfacing, and topical treatments can help achieve immediate results. Surgical options, such as facelifts and cheek lifts, provide more lasting effects. Discussing your concerns and desired outcomes with a professional can help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nasolabial Fold
How to get rid of the nasolabial fold?
The quickest way to get rid of the nasolabial fold is dermal fillers. When injected under your skin, these fillers promote hydration, plump the skin by increasing volume, and reduce the appearance of the nasolabial folds.
At what age do you get nasolabial fold?
The age varies from person to person. In most cases, from age 25-35, a person may start noticing the appearance of the fine lines on the forehead, under the eyes and nasolabial folds ass swell.
Does weight loss reduce nasolabial folds?
Though there is no such evidence, many people report that healthy and gradual weight loss reduces the appearance of their nasolabial folds as their cheeks become fuller.
What skincare is suitable for nasolabial lines?
For nasolabial lines, follow a consistent skincare routine. Exfoliate gently twice a week, use a hydrating serum to plump your skin and always wear sunscreen on sunny and cloudy days.
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About the Author
Dr. Raj Thethi
Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC-registered medical clinic. It is led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetics.
Dr Raj Thethi is a Northern Territory Regional Expert for an international dermal filler company called Teoxane. He also sits on their National UK Faculty.
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Gemma Elliott
Clinical Assistant & Expert Practitioner
Gemma is a highly experienced and versatile practitioner with experience in both performing treatments and running a busy aesthetic clinic.
At YSC, Gemma is Dr Raj Thethi’s clinical assistant but also works as a practitioner in the clinic and is fully experienced with all the technologies to a very high standard. Rest assured you are in safe, experienced hands.
Roisin Quinn
Head of Reception
Roisin the Lead receptionist at YSC and has an extensive administration background in various sectors, bringing a diverse skill set to her role. She also has a keen interest in all things beauty and aesthetics.
Helen Driffield
Reception Team
Helen is part of the reception team and has a number of years’ experience within the medical industry and is also level 2 qualified in Beauty Therapy.
Yasmin Ellis
Reception Team
Yasmin is the latest member to the YSC Reception Team. Yasmin has over 10 years experience in Hair and Beauty Industry, with NVQ Levels 2 and 3 Creative Hair.
Dr Raj Thethi
Founder and Medical Director
Dr Raj is the Founder and Clinical Director of the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. With a successful career in aesthetics and a passion for patient care, Dr. Raj found that his expertise in facial aesthetics was a natural progression where he could showcase his warm and friendly demeanour alongside his exceptional skills.
Dr Raj specialises in advanced facial aesthetics, offering a wide range of treatments and skin procedures. With his extensive training and experience in both medical and aesthetic fields, he brings a unique perspective to delivering exceptional results.
Driven by his passion for patient satisfaction, Dr Raj established the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. Located in a comfortable and welcoming environment, the clinic provides a luxurious and refined setting for patients seeking aesthetic treatments…. Read More
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Sarah Coates
Patient Representative
Hi, I’m Sarah Coates. I’m a Senior Change Manager, Hogan accredited coach, proud mum of 2 beautiful boys and am blessed with incredible friends to get into mischief with!
As I headed towards my 40th birthday, my life changed in a way that I could never have imagined and I came off that roller coaster with a new lease of life, with an understanding of the importance of self care and a huge amount of gratitude.
I love to travel, have a passion for interior design and enjoy sharing all that life has to offer with my beautiful family and fabulous friends.
If I’m not at work, you’ll find me playing at the park with my boys, enjoying the sun in Ibiza, listening to music or at the bar with a glass of fizz!
Bailey
Patient Representative
Hi I’m Bailey and I live in North Yorkshire with my husband and two working spaniels. I have been seeing Dr. Raj for facial rebalancing due to trauma and anti-aging procedures for six years.
Abie Ansari
Patient Representative
I am Senior Manager currently working for a small charity based in Leeds. My role is both professionally stimulating and challenging. No two days are ever the same. It includes aspects of advocacy, client rights, individual representation and inclusivity.
One milestone that resonates deeply is the creation of support groups, safe spaces where clients can openly share their stories. Witnessing the impact of these connections has fuelled my determination to improve the journey of others.
Through my own aesthetic endeavours , I’ve developed an unparalleled understanding of the emotional nuances tied to cosmetic treatments. This empathy allows me to offer sincere reassurance and guidance, especially during moments of vulnerability, in an era of aesthetic care that marries technical expertise with genuine human understanding and a person centred approach.
In my spare time I love the outdoors, enjoying hillwalking, taking part in sport, managing my bountiful allotment, and enhancing my cookery skills trying different cuisines (..no Masterchef yet).. and travel.
Dr. Farzana Khan
Consultant and General Surgeon
Dr. Khan earned her MD from Copenhagen University in 2003 and boasts over 20 years of medical expertise. Her early career was dedicated to dermatology and gynaecology across Yorkshire, and in 2011, she became a qualified GP from The Royal College of General Practitioners in London.
Dr. Khan’s commitment to women’s health is evident through her achievements. In 2012, she earned a Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Health.
Dr Camila Valencia
Aesthetic Doctor
Dr Valencia has over 10 years experience in the aesthetic field. Originally from Ecuador, she moved to the UK in 2014. Dr Valencia performs a wide range of treatments at the Yorkshire Skin Centre including injectables, consultations and minor surgery.
Dr Valencia comes from a family of surgeons and is proud to have been taught by some of the best physicians both at home and at the School of Medicine in Guayaquil -Ecuador.As an entrepreneur, she founded her own Laser Hair Removal company and worked in various specialist Aesthetic Medicine clinics in Madrid for 11 years.
In 2014 she moved to the UK with her family and now works very closely with Dr Raj, as an associate doctor at the Yorkshire Skin Centre.
Dr Valencia is committed to helping her patients to understand and enhance their appearance, always with a view to achieving a natural-looking result.
Qualifications:
MSc Cordoba University 2009
PGDip Alcala University 2007
DMed University of Santiago 2003
Linda Conway
Sales Administrator
Linda comes from a sales and customer record management background.
Here at YSC she personally manages a huge volume of enquiries that come through our clinic everyday, regarding treatments and special offers. She has extensive customer service knowledge and also has wide knowledge of the beauty industry having been a successful manager for Virgin Vie cosmetics.
Ellie Barker
Clinic Supervisor
Ellie works closely with the clinic directors and forms an integral part of the management team at YSC. Ellie has over 10 years’ experience and knowledge of all things beauty, admin and management having worked for various big skincare and beauty brands in her career.
She also co-ordinates all the training in the clinic at the Academy of Facial Aesthetics.
Andrea Hartley
Expert Practitioner
Andrea is a highly qualified practitioner with many years experience within the industry. Andrea qualified 5 years ago in VTCT Advanced Level 4 training at Yorkshire College of Beauty, alongside CIDESCO which is a prestigious internationally recognised qualification. Andrea works in the clinic full time, performing all treatments such as Forma, Morpheus 8, Neogen, UltraClear, Thermavein, Epilation, Ear Piercing and many more.
Sophie Walker
Expert Practitioner
Sophie is a highly experienced practitioner. She passed her Level 3 Beauty Therapy with a distinction at Yorkshire College of Beauty, also completed her Level 4 Specialist training. She is also CIDESCO qualified. CIDESCO is the world standard for beauty and spa therapy meaning you are getting the very best of treatments at an internationally examined standard.
Sophie works in the clinic 5 days a week and performs many treatments such as HydraFacial, Forma, Laser Therapy, Morpheus8, UltraClear Laser, fat freezing, ThermaVein, chemical peels, derma planning and much more. Rest assured you are in safe, experienced hands.
Nationally recognised leader in the field of Aesthetics
Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Dr Raj Thethi is a Northern Territory Regional Expert for an international dermal filler company called Teoxane. He also sits on their National UK Faculty. He is nationally recognised leader in the field of Aesthetics and a skilled trainer up..Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Dr Sharan Thethi
Clinic Director
Dr Sharan BDS has a bachelor’s degree in Dentistry and Oral Surgery. She is married to Dr Raj and has taken a step back from dentistry to help run the family venture. She is the Manager of the Yorkshire Skin Centre.
Egle Pociene
Expert Practitioner
With a degree in Cosmetology with Medicine and over 10 years in the industry as a highly knowledgeable and skilled practitioner; Egle, or Elle, is one of the best non-surgical practitioners in the North of England. Having treated over 5000 patients, she has an in-depth understanding of patients’ needs, desires and how to safely achieve natural outcomes. She performs many treatments in the clinic including Morpheus8, advanced skin consultations, chemical peels, Lumecca (IPL) for pigmentation or redness, and laser hair removal to name a few. She is also a qualified semi-permanent make-up artist and has her own business.
Minimally invasive fat removal and skin tightening in areas like arms, abdomen, and thighs. It uses radiofrequency energy to melt fat and tighten the surrounding skin simultaneously.
Fat-dissolving injections, also known as lipolytic injections or injectable lipolysis, are non-surgical treatments that use deoxycholic acid—a naturally occurring bile acid that helps break down dietary fat—to target and dissolve stubborn fat deposits.
Experts analyse your skin, lifestyle, and concerns to recommend the most effective combination of treatments tackling your unique wrinkles and fine lines.
Improve facial features like cheekbones, lips, and jawline, these injectable wonders are like tiny cushions, plumping up wrinkles and restoring lost volume.
we understand the desire for a sharper, more defined facial appearance for men. uses dermal fillers to achieve natural-looking results tailored specifically for the male face.
Facial Ultrasound is a cutting-edge, non-invasive imaging technology that utilises high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the underlying structures of the face.
This exclusive treatment combines multiple advanced procedures to sculpt your face, neck, and jawline while delivering outstanding, natural-looking results.
Polynucleotides are a revolutionary, non-surgical option that restores hydration, elasticity, and firmness, giving you a radiant and youthful complexion.
Unwanted moles can be a cosmetic concern, but removing them safely and effectively is important, experience precise removal of moles with minimal scarring.
Advanced hair removal solutions like laser and IPL cater specifically to your needs, offering targeted removal on areas like the chest, back, and beard.
we understand the discomfort and frustration that come with a watery eye or constant stickiness due to blockage in the tear drainage system.
Mr Jeeva
Consultant Ophthalmologist & Oculoplastic Surgeon
Mr Jeeva is celebrated for his mastery in aesthetic eyelid surgery. By adopting a patient-centric ethos, he delivers personalised treatments that amplify natural beauty and revive youthful vitality.
He has completed a prestigious fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons, specialising in cosmetic plastic surgery. This rigorous training has endowed him with advanced techniques in aesthetic surgery, ensuring outcomes that are both beautiful and natural.
With a specialised fellowship in oculoplastic surgery, Mr Jeeva has honed his skills in delicate eyelid surgeries, tear duct disorders… Read More
Miss Alana Hunter
Independent Nurse Prescriber
Alana embarked on a career in nursing in 2008, following her comprehensive training and graduation. Since then, she has accrued a wealth of experience working in a variety of roles within both the NHS and private healthcare sectors. Known for her dedication and exceptional skills, Alana rapidly ascended into management, and for the past seven years, has been serving as a matron.
Throughout her career, she has consistently maintained her clinical competencies and academic studies. She initially earned a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, later advancing her studies to become an Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Independent Prescriber. Her commitment to continuous professional development led to the completion of her full Master’s degree.
Alana’s passion for skin spurred her to further specialise in this field. In 2017, she pursued training in facial aesthetics, a decision that marked the beginning of a significant new chapter in her career. Since then, she has been affiliated with several leading skin clinics across the UK, where she has honed her expertise and built a reputation for excellence. Her extensive knowledge and experience in skin led her to become an expert medical trainer and since 2021, Alana has been imparting her knowledge at an award-winning training academy. Previously, she held the prestigious position of National Trainer for SKN Clinics, where she educated a variety of medical professionals, including plastic surgeons.
While Alana enjoys all aspects of skin, she has a particular fondness for medical-grade skin care, which she believes offers unparalleled benefits to patients. Her dedication to patient care and her professional knowledge and skills, make her a standout figure in this field. Through her work, Alana has positively impacted numerous lives, helping patients achieve their best skin health and aesthetic goals. In her trainer role, Alana is known for her meticulous approach and her ability to convey complex information in an accessible manner, ensuring that her trainees are well-equipped to deliver high-quality care. Her leadership and mentorship have been crucial in elevating the standards of practice within the industry.
Alana’s career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing and aesthetics. Her professional journey reflects a blend of clinical expertise, academic achievement, and a genuine passion for improving patient care. As she continues to advance her career, Alana remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of the field, continually enhancing her skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care to her patients and to train the next generation of skin care professionals.
Mr Nikos Lymperopoulos
Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
With over 15 years of experience in the NHS, Mr Nikos Lymperopoulos specialises in reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery. He graduated from the University of Athens Medical in 2009 and completed his basic surgical training in Liverpool. After earning a PhD with honours in DIEP clinical anatomy research in 2013, he completed advanced surgical training in plastic surgery across Yorkshire and Liverpool, including a cosmetic fellowship in the North West.
Mr Lymperopoulos further honed his expertise with two prestigious breast reconstruction microsurgical fellowships at The Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea and Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospitals in London. His extensive experience in breast reconstruction after mastectomy provides a profound understanding of surgical anatomy and aesthetics, benefiting procedures such as breast augmentation, reduction, and uplift. Additionally, he is highly skilled in abdominoplasty, often enhanced with liposuction or muscle repair, especially post-pregnancy.
Specialising in skin cancer treatment, he adeptly handles Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. He offers a comprehensive range of breast and body cosmetic surgeries, including breast augmentation with implants or fat transfer, breast reduction, uplift, tummy tucks, and liposuction. Combined procedures, such as “mommy makeovers,” are also available to restore post-pregnancy body contours.
Trained in both surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation, Mr Lymperopoulos performs eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), as well as toxin and filler injections. Currently, he serves as a Consultant at Mid Yorkshire Teaching Hospitals, specialising in breast reconstruction and skin cancer surgery, and holds an Honorary Senior Lecturer position at the University of Leeds.
An advocate for education and research, Mr Lymperopoulos has over 20 publications in peer-reviewed journals and a PhD in microsurgical breast reconstruction. As an Education Lead, he developed “The Yorkshire FRCS (Plast) Course” to aid UK trainees in their exit exams. His innovative training simulator was awarded first place in Innovation at the BAPRAS meeting in 2021.
At Yorkshire Skin Centre, We offer a range of effective treatments designed to smooth, soften, and erase those unwanted lines, revealing a brighter, younger-looking you.
At the Yorkshire Skin Centre, we understand your concerns and offer a diverse range of effective treatments specifically designed to combat frown lines.
Our skilled team utilises the latest advancements in the field to target both recent and mature acne scars, ensuring comprehensive and cutting-edge solutions for our clients.
A non-invasive procedure that uses cold temperatures to freeze and destroy fat cells. It is designed to reduce localised areas of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise.
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Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty, also known as an eye lift, is a surgical procedure performed on the eyelids to improve their appearance. It can address concerns like:
Excess skin on the upper eyelids: This can obstruct vision and create a hooded appearance.
Bags under the lower eyelids: These can make you look tired or aged.
Drooping lower eyelids: This can also obstruct vision and contribute to a tired appearance.
Types of Blepharoplasty:
Upper blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the upper eyelids, removing excess skin and sometimes fat or muscle tissue.
Lower blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the lower eyelids, removing excess fat or skin and sometimes repositioning tissues.
Asian blepharoplasty: This addresses specific concerns related to the anatomy of Asian eyelids, creating a more defined crease.
Mr Ibrahim Rajput
Consultant and General Surgeon
Mr Ibrahim Rajput is a Consultant General Surgeon who is committed to delivering the best care for every patient. Mr Rajput has undergone extensive training from world renowned surgeons in General Surgery, Hepatopancreatobiliary surgery and Transplant Surgery.
This training has developed his surgical skills to the highest level. He is also an expert in minimally invasive surgery with a particular interest in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy, and Laparoscopic Hernia Repair.
At Yorkshire Skin Centre, Mr Rajput performs a number of day case procedures under local anaesthesia which include removal of moles, removal of lipomas, excision of sebaceous cysts, and ingrowing toe nails. He is also fully qualified and experienced with surgical liposuction and Body Contouring using our gentle Water Assisted Liposuction BodyJet machine and our powerful BodyTite system for fat and skin contraction and tightening to couple with your liposuction goals.