What Can We Do About Nasolabial Folds?

Lines and creases on the face are bound to happen. This natural part of aging is not medically concerning in any way but, boy, it sure can be frustrating! Nasolabial folds are the lines that start at the sides of the nose and travel to the corners of the mouth. Because the lower face changes bit-by-bit each year, these lines can turn into deep creases over time. Here, we discuss what causes nasolabial folds, what we might do to keep them from forming too soon, and what your dermatologist can do to erase them.

What Causes Nasolabial Folds?

Nasolabial folds are caused by aging. Several factors influence how the face ages, including:

• Our genes.
• Biological aging. During early adulthood, we stop making as much collagen as we need for smooth, firm skin. By mid-life, this decline results in deepening creases.
• This habit doesn’t just affect the lungs, it also sends pollutants directly to facial skin.
• Sun exposure. You don’t have to get a sunburn to sustain sun damage. Ultraviolet rays of sunshine break down the healthy collagen that firms the skin.

Can I Prevent Nasolabial Folds?

We’d like to say that you can. With various habits and professional treatments, you can likely manage this natural aspect of aging. However, prevention is a big word when it comes to predicting what’s possible for aging skin. The tasks of prevention may slow the onset or lessen the severity of these lines. They include:

• Minimize sun exposure.
• Do not use indoor tanning lamps.
• Wear broad-spectrum, SPF 30 sunscreen every day, even when it’s cloudy.
• Use quality skincare products that are appropriate for your skin’s needs. Aging skin needs antioxidants, retinoids, and moisture, moisture, moisture!

Professional Treatments for Nasolabial Folds

You don’t have to wait until you see nasolabial folds to see a dermatologist. Treatments for this cosmetic concern include:

• EVO MicroPen. This microneedling treatment boosts collagen by creating tiny injuries that heal almost immediately.
• RF microneedling. We could call this microneedling on steroids. RF microneedling stimulates collagen production for deep tissue remodeling by delivering radiofrequency energy to the dermis through tiny needles.
• Another tissue-tightening treatment, Ultherapy is clinically proven to stimulate tissue regeneration in the dermis, where collagen is produced.
• Dermal fillers. For a fast and convenient transformation, many people choose to inject a dermal filler product beneath nasolabial folds. Fillers can also be applied to the cheeks to improve contouring and “lift” tissue away from the nose and mouth.

Dr. Vivian Bucay loves serving patients in the San Antonio area! To schedule facial rejuvenation treatment with us, call our La Casita or Sonterra office today.