Smile lines, also known as nasolabial folds, are the fine lines or wrinkles that form around the sides of the mouth as we age. These lines can be caused by a combination of natural ageing, genetics, and repetitive facial movements. As we age, our skin loses collagen and its elasticity and can become thin and dry, making it more subject to wrinkles. Genetics also play a role in how our skin ages, with some people being more prone to wrinkles than others. Finally, repetitive facial movements, such as smiling, laughing, and frowning, can cause lines and wrinkles to form over time.
While smile lines are a natural part of the ageing process, there are steps you can take to help prevent them from becoming more pronounced. These include protecting your skin from the sun, staying hydrated, eating a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and using moisturisers and other skincare products from our evolveMD range that contain anti-ageing ingredients
Preventative Measures to Minimise the Appearance of Smile Lines –
Skincare Routine
An effective way to prevent or minimise smile lines is to incorporate hydrating skincare products into your daily routine. Firstly, it is important to ensure you cleanse your face in the morning and at night with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, dirt and impurities that can clog pores. After cleansing, apply our hyaluronic advanced hydrating serum to help retain moisture, plump the skin and improve overall skin texture. Follow this up with one of our moisturisers that contains antioxidants and vitamins: Hydra Boost or Ultra Nourishing. These products will nourish and protect the skin from environmental damage. Finally, don’t forget to apply sunscreen daily to protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. Exposure to the sun can cause premature ageing and contribute to the development of fine lines and wrinkles. Our evolveMD UV Sun Protectant is a Broad Spectrum Hydrator (protects against both UVA and UVB rays) and a physical Sun Reflector that suits all skin types.
By incorporating a hydrating daily skincare routine, you can help to minimise the appearance of smile lines and keep your skin looking healthy and hydrated!
Facial exercises
Smile lines can be a sign of a happy and fulfilled life, but if you are looking to minimise its appearance, facial exercises and muscle relaxation techniques are also helpful:
- Gently smile while pressing your fingertips into the smile lines on either side of your mouth. Hold for a few seconds, release, and repeat several times a day. This exercise helps to stimulate blood flow and relax the muscles in the area.
- Another exercise is to form an “O” shape with your mouth and hold for a few seconds before relaxing. This exercise helps to strengthen the muscles around your mouth, which can improve the appearance of smile lines.
- You can also try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation to reduce stress and tension in your facial muscles. Stress can cause the muscles in your face to tighten, which can make smile lines more prominent.
Treatments for smile lines –
Hyaluronic Dermal Filler
Hyaluronic dermal fillers are an effective solution for reducing the appearance of smile lines. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in our skin that helps to keep it hydrated and plump. Hyaluronic dermal fillers are made from a synthetic form of this substance and are injected into the skin to add volume. By injecting hyaluronic acid fillers into the smile lines, you can help fill in the creases and create a smoother, more youthful appearance. They are a safe and effective treatment for reducing the appearance of smile lines and restoring a more youthful look to the face.
Results can last up to 18 months, depending on the individual and the type of filler used. Some common side effects include swelling, redness, and bruising at the injection site, but these typically resolve within a few days to a week. If you are considering hyaluronic dermal fillers to help with your smile lines, it is important to have a consultation with a member from our medical team to determine if this treatment is right for you.
PDO Threads
PDO threads can be a great option for reducing the appearance of smile lines. These threads are made of a biocompatible material that is safely absorbed by the body over time. During the procedure, one of our medical professionals will insert the PDO threads under the skin in the targeted area. As the threads are inserted, they help to lift and tighten the skin, providing a more youthful appearance. In the case of smile lines, the threads can be inserted in a way that reduces the depth of the lines. Over time, the threads will be absorbed by the body, but the results can last for several months.
It is important to note that PDO threads should only be inserted by a trained medical professional. Additionally, there may be some mild swelling or bruising after the procedure, but this should subside within a few days. With proper care, the results of PDO threads can be a great way to reduce the appearance of smile lines.
Skin Needling
Skin needling is a skin treatment that involves the use of microneedles to create small punctures in the skin. This process stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, which are essential for healthy skin. By promoting the production of these essential proteins, skin needling can help to reduce the depth and visibility of smile lines, leaving the skin looking smoother and more youthful. This skin treatment can also help to minimise their appearance by improving the overall texture and firmness of the skin.
While skin needling can be an effective treatment for minimising smile lines, it is important to note that multiple treatments may be required to achieve optimal results. Additionally, it is essential to consult with one of our therapists to ensure that this treatment is suited for your skin. To read more on the benefits of skin needling, read our blog post here.
Minimising smile lines requires a multi-faceted approach that includes a combination of a consistent skincare routine, facial exercises, skin treatments and/or dermal fillers. By adopting a harmonious routine that includes the use of our evolveMD products that encourage collagen production and skin hydration, you can slow down the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Skin treatments like skin needling can also help to reduce the appearance of smile lines. Hyaluronic dermal fillers can provide an immediate solution to deeper wrinkles, while facial exercises can help to strengthen facial muscles and promote circulation.
With the right combination of these approaches, you can achieve a more youthful, radiant appearance and maintain a healthy, glowing complexion for years to come. Remember, smile lines are a natural part of the ageing process, and there is no need to feel self-conscious about them! Embrace your natural beauty and continue to take care of yourself both inside and out.
Book your complimentary consultation with the team at Evolution Laser Clinic today!
