Nasolabial folds are the creases that form from the sides of the nose, outward around the mouth that seem to get deeper as we age. These develop due to gravity and volume loss on the face. Repeated smiling and facial expressions deepen these folds over time. Aside from injectable fillers and cosmetic surgery, there are a few things we can do to minimize the look of these lines.
• Minimize sun exposure and wear moisturizers and make-up that contain at least an SPF 30. (I tend to recommend 30 and many derms do as well; many others state 15, mainly to be consistent). Try a range including Anthelios susncreens or Keys Solar Rx.
• Use serums containing collagen and moisture retaining ingredients to keep skin looking plump and moist. Sodium hyaluronate as found in the La Roche Posay Hydraphase range absorbs moisture and works well.
• Abstain from smoking as it exposes skin to free radicals that speed up the breakdown of collagen.
• Use foundations and make-up made for mature skin as they contain ingredients to prevent the product from settling into these lines. Primers like those by Colorescience are ideal.
