How to reduce nasal folds

You can soften nasal folds with sun protection, supportive skincare, and carefully selected professional treatments after an assessment. Results depend on whether the crease is mainly from movement, skin texture, tissue support, or facial volume loss.

Nasolabial folds, also called smile lines, extend from each side of the nose toward the mouth. They become more visible when the face moves and may remain noticeable at rest as skin gradually loses elasticity or the cheek changes shape. Facial volume loss can make the transition between the cheek and fold look sharper.

A fold is not automatically a sign of illness. A clinician should assess asymmetry, skin quality, facial movement and your goals before suggesting a procedure.

Use broad-spectrum sun protection on the face each day, avoid deliberate tanning, and apply a moisturiser that helps reduce dryness-related emphasis of fine lines. Gentle cleansing is preferable to scrubbing the fold.

If you want more change, a qualified clinician may discuss dermal fillers, collagen biostimulator injection, or a thread lift. These options differ in how they address support, collagen response and skin laxity. A consultation should cover expected improvement, alternatives, possible swelling or bruising, and aftercare.

Arrange a medical assessment if a new fold is accompanied by a firm lump, persistent pain, skin breakdown, bleeding, marked swelling, or a sudden one-sided change. Seek prompt care for facial weakness or difficulty speaking. For a gradual cosmetic concern, a dermatology or aesthetic consultation can clarify the cause and suitable options.

Ask what is contributing most to the fold, whether facial volume loss is present, which treatment target is realistic, how long recovery may take, and what warning signs should prompt a review.