How to Reduce Nasolabial Folds

Nasolabial folds—also known as “marionette lines”—are the creases extending bilaterally from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. Their appearance is influenced by genetic factors, skin laxity, and fat distribution. In younger individuals, nasolabial folds tend to be relatively shallow. Sudden onset of prominent nasolabial folds is often distressing for women, as their emergence can make one appear up to ten years older. Moreover, progressive deepening of these folds further accentuates an aged appearance. So how can one effectively reduce or eliminate nasolabial folds? Below, we outline several evidence-based approaches.

How to Reduce Nasolabial Folds

1. Injectable Fillers

Injectable fillers represent the most straightforward intervention. Mild-to-moderate nasolabial folds may be treated with hyaluronic acid (HA), botulinum toxin, or autologous fat grafting. Alternative modalities—including thread lifting and laser resurfacing—can also improve nasolabial fold appearance. These minimally invasive options offer rapid recovery but require periodic maintenance due to their relatively short duration of effect. Among them, HA injection restores skin elasticity, enhances tissue hydration, and imparts a plump, youthful, and supple appearance.

2. Skincare Regimen

Select skincare products containing ingredients that stimulate dermal collagen regeneration—such as growth factors and low-molecular-weight collagen—to promote dermal tissue renewal, reduce wrinkles, and enhance skin firmness. Products formulated with exfoliating agents (e.g., alpha-hydroxy acids or retinoids) facilitate epidermal turnover and help diminish superficial wrinkles. Additionally, topical formulations incorporating hormone-supportive compounds—including kynurenine (Kynatin®), Shan Yao (Dioscorea extract), soy isoflavones, curcumin, and peptides—may modulate hormonal activity and contribute to improved skin tone and resilience.

3. Facial Massage

Facial massage can provide modest improvement in nasolabial fold appearance. A recommended technique includes the following steps: First, puff out the cheeks to accentuate the nasolabial folds. Then gently tap a serum or moisturizer into the groove along the nasolabial fold until fully absorbed. Next, use the pads of the middle and ring fingers to perform circular, upward-lifting motions—starting at the corners of the mouth and moving toward the ears, then from the alar base outward to the temples. Finally, clench both fists and place them beneath the zygomatic arches; using gentle pressure, massage the cheek muscles outward from the nasolabial fold toward the lateral face.

The above overview outlines practical strategies for reducing nasolabial folds. If nasolabial folds develop, injectable fillers—including hyaluronic acid, botulinum toxin, or autologous fat—offer effective correction. Thread lifting and laser treatments are additional viable options. Furthermore, consistent daily skincare and targeted facial massage may yield supplementary benefits. We hope this information proves helpful.