What Causes Nasolabial Folds and How to Treat Them
Some of the most prominent signs of aging tend to appear in the lower part of the face, around the mouth and jawline. These include marionette lines that extend between the sides of the mouth to the chin, lipstick lines, flattening of the lips, jowls, and the dreaded nasolabial folds—those creases that look like parentheses bracketing the nose and mouth. Actually, everyone has nasolabial folds throughout their lives, but the lines become deeper, longer, and more noticeable with advanced age.
So how exactly do these lines form? Our South Jersey Skin Care & Laser Center team has the answer to this, as well as other common questions from patients who want to know what kind of cosmetic treatments are available to address nasolabial folds at our New Jersey office: Juvederm® fillers work from the inside, making them an especially effective option.
First, an explanation of their development: The area where nasolabial folds develop is comprised of tight muscles and fibrous tissue. Many factors work together on this tissue to deepen the folds there: Long-term sun exposure causes the skin to become frailer and thinner. Fat, which gives the face a gentle smoothness and roundness, typically diminishes with age—as does collagen, the protein that keeps your skin’s structure strong in your youth. Thin, less elastic, and looser skin is more prone to forming visible lines. Repeated facial expressions, such as smiling, are also believed to accelerate wrinkling in this part of the face.
When you have severe nasolabial folds, what your skin essentially needs is a replacement for the fat, collagen, and moisture that has been lost. This is the strategy behind the Juvederm® collection of fillers, which contain a natural, moisture-regulating substance known as hyaluronic acid. Juvederm Vollure® is designed specifically for nasolabial folds. The injectable’s soft gel literally fills in space beneath your skin, giving the surface a smoother look.
In addition to fillers, laser treatments can enhance overall tone and texture of facial skin, reducing fine wrinkles and discoloration. While lasers are most effective at providing more subtle results, they do prompt cells to begin creating new collagen. Microdermabrasion is also a popular collagen-induction treatment. Some patients find that a combination of fillers and lasers or other collagen-inducing options give them the youthful look they are seeking.
If you’re curious to learn more about how dermal fillers like Juvederm® counteract wrinkles, our South Jersey Skin Care & Laser Center team in New Jersey can help. Talk to us by calling (856) 810-9888 or write us a message online.