NASOLABIAL FOLDS Q&A

There have been some recent changes on some of the terminology that can be used when discussing aesthetic treatments. Dermal fillers will now be referred to as “Volume replacers”, “Volume replacement” or “Re- volumising” treatments.  With any cosmetic treatment a detailed consultation is required first, and during that time the treatment for volume replacement will be discussed in detail.

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Question 1.

How are nasolabial folds diagnosed?

 

Nasolabial folds are the lines that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth.  They are typically noticeable through simple observation rather than specialised medical tests. The process is straightforward:

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1. Visual Examination: Most individuals can spot these folds by looking in the mirror. As they age, these lines may become more pronounced due to factors such as genetics, sun exposure, and lifestyle choices.

2. Self-Assessment: Critically assess how these folds affect your overall appearance. Consider if they align with your personal aesthetic preferences.

3. Consultation with an experienced health care practitioner: If you're concerned about their prominence or consistency, an experienced cosmetic nurse or doctor can provide professional insight. They will evaluate your skin condition and suggest possible treatments if desired.

4. Consideration of Personal Feelings: Ultimately, the decision to address nasolabial folds is personal. Some people choose treatment for cosmetic reasons, while others embrace these signs of maturity.

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No diagnostic tests are needed—identifying nasolabial folds relies on awareness and choice.

 

Question 2.

What are the symptoms of laugh lines?

 

Recognising the Symptoms of Laugh Lines

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Laugh lines, also known as nasolabial folds, are creases that extend from the sides of your nose down to the corners of your mouth. Initially, these lines might only make an appearance when you smile or laugh, smoothly disappearing as your face returns to a neutral expression.

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However, as time progresses, these lines can become more defined and remain visible even when your face is at rest. They may deepen into noticeable wrinkles and deep lines, creating a more permanent feature on your face. Interestingly, laugh lines can be either symmetrical or asymmetrical, varying from person to person.

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In essence, the symptoms of laugh lines evolve from transient creases that accompany expressions to lasting features that mark the natural ageing process.

 

Question 3.

What can I expect if I have nasolabial folds?

 

What can I do at home to prevent laughter lines? They cannot be permanently removed but there are treatments you can do at home to improve their appearance.

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While nasolabial folds, often referred to as laughter lines, are an inevitable part of the ageing process, there are ways to manage their appearance. Unfortunately, there's no way to permanently prevent them. However, treatments can offer temporary improvement, lasting a few months or even years.

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Daily Skincare Routine:

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• Active Skincare Range: Incorporate products that target fine lines and wrinkles while boosting skin hydration. Consistent use can visibly improve skin texture and tone.

• SPF 50+: Daily application of a high SPF sunscreen helps prevent premature ageing caused by sun exposure, protecting your skin from further damage. Airyday is a 50+ sunscreen, and contains hyaluronic acid, vegan collagen, and vitamins C, E and F.  It protects your skin from the sun, but also moisturises it and also works as a make-up primer too.

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At-Home Treatments:

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• LED Mask Therapy: Use the Airyday Bright on LED mask at home. It requires just 10 minutes, three times a week, utilising 432 lights with clinically proven wave lengths of blue, red and infrared lights to enhance skin texture and tone by building collagen and elastin.

• Hydrating Masks: The Vskin sheet masks are packed with amino acids and antioxidants to deeply hydrate and nourish your skin, offering a refreshed and youthful complexion.

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By incorporating these strategies into your home care daily routine, you can effectively manage the visibility and severity of nasolabial folds. While complete prevention isn't possible, these steps can help maintain a youthful look for longer.

 

How long do treatments for nasolabial folds last?

 

Treatments can be effective for a period ranging from a few months to several years, depending on the treatment, but they do not offer a permanent solution.

 

Can nasolabial folds be permanently prevented?

 

No, nasolabial folds, also known as laugh lines, cannot be permanently prevented as they are a natural part of the ageing process. There are many treatments available to soften the severity and depth of the fold, and improve the skin texture.  These treatments, in addition to home care routines will help to prevent them from getting deeper.

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Question 4.

How can I reduce my risk of developing nasolabial folds?

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What can I do at home to reduce laughter lines?

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While laughter lines, also known as nasolabial folds, can't be permanently removed, there are several steps you can take at home to minimise their appearance and delay their onset. Incorporating a combination of lifestyle habits and targeted skincare treatments can make a significant difference.

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• Healthy Lifestyle Choices:

  • Diet and Exercise: Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and staying active can boost skin health. Adequate sleep is equally important to allow your skin to repair and rejuvenate.

  • Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of skincare products that sting or burn unless prescribed by a healthcare provider, as irritation can accelerate ageing.

  • Sun Protection: Use a daily SPF 50+ sunscreen to shield your skin from harmful UV rays, which can lead to premature ageing and wrinkles. Reapply every two hours, especially if you're sweating or swimming.

  • Quit Smoking/ vaping: Smoking accelerates ageing. Quitting or not starting at all can significantly benefit your skin's appearance.

  • Sleep Smart: Try sleeping on your back to prevent gravity from deepening laugh lines. If you're a side sleeper, alternate sides frequently.

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• Skincare Treatments:

  • Active Skincare Range: Daily use of products targeting fine lines and wrinkles can improve skin hydration, texture and tone.

  • At-Home Devices: The Airyday Bright on LED mask is a convenient tool to enhance skin tone and texture by building collagen and elastin. Use it at home for 10 minutes, three times a week, utilising 432 lights with clinically proven wave lengths of red, blue and infrared lights.

  • Hydrating Masks: Take-home V skin hydrating sheet masks infused with amino acids and antioxidants boost hydration, promoting a more youthful appearance.

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By weaving these practices into your daily routine, you can effectively manage and reduce the prominence of nasolabial folds, enjoying healthier, more resilient skin.

 

How often should sunscreen be reapplied, and under what conditions?

 

Sunscreen should be re-applied every two hours, especially if you are sweating or swimming, to ensure continuous protection against UV rays.

 

What is the recommended sleeping position to minimise nasolabial folds?

 

Sleeping on your back is advisable to counteract gravity's effect on laugh lines. If you prefer sleeping on your side, try to alternate sides regularly to minimise their impact.

 

How does smoking impact the development of nasolabial folds?

 

Smoking significantly contributes to premature ageing and the formation of wrinkles, including nasolabial folds. Avoiding smoking can help maintain youthful skin.

 

How does sun exposure contribute to the formation of nasolabial folds, and what precautions should I take?

 

Sun exposure accelerates skin ageing and wrinkle formation due to harmful UV rays. To protect your skin, avoid tanning and use a 50+ sunscreen daily.

 

What type of skincare products should I avoid to prevent nasolabial folds?

 

Avoid using skincare products that cause irritation, such as those that sting or burn, unless they are specifically recommended by a healthcare professional, as they can exacerbate signs of ageing.

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Using skincare with active skin ingredients such as retinol, vitamin c, hyaluronic acid, peptides, glycolic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, niacinamide, collagen and co enzyme q10 can slow down the ageing process.  A medical grade or practitioner only brand of skincare that has been scientifically proven to improve skin quality is recommended.

 

How does diet, exercise, and sleep affect the risk of developing nasolabial folds?

 

Maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, and getting sufficient rest are crucial for skin health. These habits help delay the appearance of nasolabial folds by keeping your skin nourished and resilient.

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Question 5.

Are smile lines common among different people?

 

Nasolabial lines, more commonly known as smile lines, are a natural part of human anatomy. These lines can be symmetrical or asymmetrical, with some individuals having a more pronounced fold on one side compared to the other. Interestingly, smile lines are very common among both women and men of all races, and they tend to become more noticeable as we age.

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Prevalence and Perception

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From a young age, even babies and children have nasolabial lines, illustrating their universality. However, as time progresses, these lines can deepen, contributing to a heavier and more aged appearance.

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Managing Smile Lines

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While the aim is not to completely remove these lines—since they are a natural feature—many people opt to soften them. By doing so, the face can appear less heavy, and the prominence of smile or laugh line creases is reduced. Some patients may find that only one side requires treatment due to unevenness. 

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By understanding both the commonality and the options for managing smile lines, individuals can make informed decisions about their facial aesthetics.
 

Does the prevalence of smile lines change with age?

 

Smile lines tend to become more noticeable and common as people grow older. They can appear as a crease and then develop into a fold with age.

 

Are smile lines common across different races?

 

Smile lines are prevalent among individuals of all racial backgrounds.

 

Are smile lines common among different genders?

 

Yes, smile lines are frequently seen in both men and women.