How to Fix Deep Nasolabial Folds? Here are 3 Main Causes + 4 Habits to Avoid, and 5 Daily Tips to Reverse Premature Aging!

Do your nasolabial folds (also called laugh lines) make you look older than your actual age? Wondering how to reduce those deep creases but don’t know where to start?

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1. What Exactly Are Nasolabial Folds? How Are They Different From Smile Lines or Marionette Lines?

Nasolabial folds are often confused with other facial lines, but they’re actually different from smile lines and marionette lines. Knowing the differences helps you choose the right treatment and slow down visible aging.

4 Key Differences Between Nasolabial Folds and Smile Lines

• Nasolabial folds extend from the sides of the nose down to the corners of the mouth, and can be dynamic (expression-related) or static (visible at rest).
• In a broad sense, nasolabial folds include smile lines, but in a stricter sense they usually refer to the lower portion.
• Prominent nasolabial folds can make the face look saggy and aged.
• Since nasolabial folds and smile lines are closely related, they are often assessed and treated together.

4 Ways to Tell Nasolabial Folds Apart From Marionette Lines

• Nasolabial folds begin at the outer edge of the nose, while marionette lines start at the corners of the mouth and extend downward.
• Marionette lines run deeper and longer, often reaching the jawline.
• Both are common signs of facial aging and are considered static wrinkles.
• In some cases, long nasolabial folds merge with marionette lines, making the face look even older.

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2. The True Culprits Behind Nasolabial Folds: 4 Main Types and Causes

Nasolabial folds form due to aging, facial structure, and lifestyle. Here are the 4 main types you should know:

Type 1. Structural (Bone-Related) Folds

Some people naturally have deeper folds due to their bone structure, even at a young age. These aren’t caused by aging but by natural facial contours. Treatment usually involves filling the hollowed area to balance the face.

Type 2. Muscle-Induced Folds

Excessive facial expressions, like frequent smiling or exaggerated movements, can create dynamic folds. Over time, these lines become permanent. The key is to relax overactive facial muscles.

Type 3. Age-Related Sagging Folds

The most common type. With age, collagen decreases, elasticity weakens, and skin sags—making folds more pronounced. Lack of sleep or sudden weight loss can also speed this up. The solution: stimulate collagen production to restore firmness.

Type 4. Lifestyle-Related Folds

Bad habits such as sleeping on your side, pursing lips, or rubbing/pulling the face when cleansing can deepen folds. Identifying and changing these habits helps prevent worsening.

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3. Your DIY Guide: 7 Non-Surgical Ways to Improve Nasolabial Folds

While not all folds can be erased at home, good skincare and massage can help soften their appearance.

5 Golden Rules of Skincare to Prevent Deepening Folds

• Always use sunscreen: Prevent UV damage and collagen breakdown.
• Keep skin hydrated: Use hydrating serums, masks, and creams to reduce dryness and fine lines.
• Eat collagen-friendly nutrients: Protein and vitamin C help boost collagen production.
• Maintain stable weight: Rapid weight loss can cause facial sagging.
• Be gentle with your skin: Avoid tugging or harsh rubbing when cleansing or applying products.

2 Simple 5-Minute Facial Massages

• Nasolabial Fold Massage: Gently press along the fold from top to bottom with your fingers to relax facial muscles.
• Lifting Massage: Use your knuckles to massage outward and upward toward the temples, helping firm skin and improve circulation.

Pro Tip: Always use facial oil or cream to reduce friction when massaging.

Massages can only do so much — for deep folds, consider professional treatments such as fillers or laser therapy for more noticeable results.

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4. Expert-Approved Medical Aesthetic Treatments to Remove Nasolabial Folds

If your folds are already deep, medical aesthetics can help. Here are the 4 most effective treatments:

Method 1. Injectable Fillers – Restore Volume and Support

Hyaluronic acid and collagen stimulators can immediately fill hollows and smooth folds. Advanced fillers also promote long-term collagen growth.

Method 2. Skin Tightening Treatments – Improve Sagging

Radiofrequency (RF) or ultrasound therapy stimulates collagen production to firm and lift sagging skin.

Perfect Medical Thermage FLX 5th Generation Face Lift Treatment tis a proven solution for sagging-related folds. This 5th-generation Thermage treatment uses patented RF technology to deliver energy deep into the skin (up to 4.3mm), stimulating collagen and tightening skin structure. With its AccuREP™ technology, every pulse is precisely adjusted to your skin’s needs—safe, non-surgical, with no downtime. Results can last up to 12 months and also improve uneven texture and enlarged pores.

If you’re looking to lift and smooth your folds naturally, Perfect Medical Thermage FLX is the ideal choice. Book your trial today and restore a youthful contour with ease!