Why Nasolabial Folds Happen and What Influences Their Appearance

Nasolabial folds are the lines that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. Sometimes referred to as smile lines, they are a natural feature of facial anatomy and movement. While everyone has nasolabial folds to some degree, their depth and prominence can change over time due to a combination of structural, biological, and lifestyle factors.

Facial Anatomy and Natural Expression

Nasolabial folds exist because of how the face moves. Every time you smile, laugh, or speak, the muscles of the midface contract and fold the skin along this crease. These repetitive movements create a natural line, even in younger individuals.

However, in youthful skin, collagen, elastin, and underlying fat provide enough support to allow the skin to bounce back smoothly. As this support diminishes, the fold becomes more noticeable at rest, not just during expression.

Volume Loss in the Midface

One of the primary reasons nasolabial folds deepen with age is volume loss in the cheeks. The midface contains fat pads that help support the skin and maintain a lifted contour. Over time, these fat pads shrink and shift downward.

As cheek volume decreases, the skin loses its structural backing. This causes tissue to descend and settle into the nasolabial fold, making the line appear deeper even if the skin itself is healthy.

Collagen and Skin Elasticity Changes

Collagen and elastin are essential for skin strength and flexibility. Starting in early adulthood, collagen production gradually declines. Environmental factors such as sun exposure, pollution, and smoking accelerate this process.

As the skin becomes thinner and less elastic, it is more likely to crease and hold lines. In the nasolabial area, where movement is frequent, reduced elasticity allows folds to become more pronounced over time.

Bone Resorption and Structural Shifts

Facial aging is not limited to the skin. The underlying facial bones also change with age. Gradual bone resorption in the maxilla (upper jaw) and cheekbones reduces structural support for the overlying tissues.

This skeletal change contributes to a flatter midface and less support for the skin around the nose and mouth, further emphasizing nasolabial folds.

Lifestyle and Genetic Factors

Genetics play a significant role in how early and how deeply nasolabial folds appear. Some individuals naturally have more pronounced folds due to facial structure or muscle activity.

Lifestyle factors can also influence their appearance. Chronic sun exposure, smoking, dehydration, and significant weight fluctuations can all accelerate volume loss and skin laxity, making folds more visible.

Addressing Nasolabial Folds at Azary Aesthetics

Because nasolabial folds result from multiple factors, effective treatment often requires a comprehensive approach. At Azary Aesthetics, we evaluate facial structure as a whole rather than treating the fold in isolation. Supporting the cheeks, improving skin quality, and addressing volume loss can all contribute to a softer, more natural appearance.

Understanding why nasolabial folds happen is the first step toward choosing the right treatment strategy.

Schedule a consultation at Azary Aesthetics to explore personalized options for facial balance and long-term support.