Nasolabial Folds are a common concern as they make the face appear tired and older. This article provides a comprehensive guide covering causes, severity levels, and the most effective treatment options available in 2025, helping readers better understand and choose the right approach for themselves.
Nasolabial Folds (Deep Smile Lines) are the folds that run from the sides of the nose down to the corners of the mouth. They are a normal part of facial anatomy but become more pronounced with age or when skin loses elasticity, making the face appear older and more tired.
Many people assume that Nasolabial Folds appear solely due to aging, but in reality, several other factors can make them noticeable even at a younger age. These include facial bone structure, sleeping on the side, smoking, and rapid weight loss. Each of these factors accelerates skin and fat changes, leading to more prominent folds without the need to wait until middle age.
Nasolabial Folds occur in both men and women, but the differences often come from facial structure and lifestyle. Men typically have more prominent cheekbones and jawlines, which make their folds appear deeper and firmer. Women, on the other hand, often have thinner skin and different fat distribution, which can make lines visible earlier. Makeup use and skincare habits also influence how noticeable the folds appear between genders.
Nasolabial Folds can make the face look tired, aged, and less vibrant. Many people feel self-conscious when taking photos or engaging in social situations. These folds may also cause makeup, such as foundation, to settle into the lines, creating an uneven finish. Overall, this impacts not only facial aesthetics but also everyday confidence.
Nasolabial Folds often develop alongside skin laxity and changes in facial fat distribution. Common issues that appear together include hollow under-eyes, downturned mouth corners, and a less defined jawline. These changes are linked to aging and facial structure, which explains why multiple concerns tend to appear at the same time rather than in isolation.
Nasolabial Folds can be classified into three levels based on their visibility and changes in the surrounding skin.
There are multiple ways to address Nasolabial Folds today, with the choice depending on the severity of the folds and individual skin condition.
Nasolabial fold fillers use hyaluronic acid (HA) injections to add volume beneath the deep folds around the cheeks. This smoothens the creases and restores hydration, resulting in a fresher and more youthful appearance.
Ultherapy prime / Ultraformer III and HIFU are skin-tightening treatments that use high-intensity focused ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production beneath the skin. By lifting and firming the mid-face area, they help reduce the appearance of Nasolabial Folds, especially in cases of mild to moderate severity.
Collagen Biostimulators are injectable treatments that stimulate the body to produce its own collagen. They are suitable for patients whose Nasolabial Folds are caused by collagen loss and skin laxity. Unlike fillers that deliver immediate results, biostimulators gradually improve the skin from within and offer longer-lasting outcomes.
In addition to fillers and injectable treatments, there are non-invasive options that can help reduce the appearance of Nasolabial Folds to some extent. These include facial massage to boost circulation, laser or energy-based treatments to stimulate collagen, and skincare products that enhance hydration. While these methods may not deliver the same level of correction as injections, they can slow progression of the folds and support overall skin health.
The onset and duration of results depend on the chosen treatment. Fillers provide immediate improvement and typically last 6–18 months. Ultherapy prime / Ultraformer III or HIFU deliver gradual results that become more visible within 2–3 months and last around one year. Collagen biostimulators take several weeks to show changes but can maintain results for 1–2 years.
Beyond age and facial structure, certain daily habits can make smile lines deeper without being aware of it. Examples include frequently sleeping on one side, smoking which breaks down collagen, overusing facial muscles with strong expressions, and rapid weight loss. These factors alter the skin and fat layers, making the folds more noticeable.
The longevity of results varies by treatment. Nasolabial fold fillers typically last 6–18 months depending on the type of filler and aftercare. Ultherapy prime / Ultraformer III or HIFU results generally last about one year. Collagen biostimulators, however, can maintain improvements for 1–2 years, making them a preferred choice for patients seeking long-term outcomes without frequent sessions.
The cost of treating Nasolabial Folds depends on the chosen procedure. Fillers typically range from 9,000–20,000 THB per cc depending on the brand and type. Ultherapy prime / Ultraformer III or HIFU usually costs 20,000–60,000 THB depending on the number of shots. Collagen biostimulators are priced around 15,000–25,000 THB per vial. Final costs vary based on skin condition and the amount recommended by the physician for each individual.
Selecting the right clinic for treating Nasolabial Folds requires attention to medical standards and credibility to ensure safe and effective results.
Patient reviews provide valuable insight into the outcomes and satisfaction with smile line treatments. Many report that filler injections deliver immediate improvement, making the face look fresher and more youthful. Others who opted for Ultherapy prime / Ultraformer III or collagen biostimulators describe gradual but noticeable changes. Authentic before-and-after photos and patient testimonials serve as key references for those considering treatment.
Discomfort varies depending on technique and anesthesia used. Most patients report only mild and tolerable pain.
Typically 6–18 months, depending on the type of filler and skin care after treatment.
Yes, Ultherapy prime / Ultraformer III stimulates collagen and tightens the skin, best suited for mild to moderate folds.
They use FDA-approved products and should be performed by qualified physicians for safety.
There are multiple ways to improve Nasolabial Folds, including fillers, Ultherapy prime / Ultraformer III / HIFU, collagen biostimulators, and supportive lifestyle changes. The most suitable option depends on skin condition, severity of the folds, and professional medical advice to achieve natural and safe results
