What Causes Nasolabial Folds?
As we get older, our skin naturally loses collagen and elastin — the stuff that keeps skin firm and bouncy. Add in years of smiling, sun exposure, and gravity doing their thing, and those folds start to deepen. Plus, as we lose volume in our cheeks, the folds become even more noticeable.
Why Consider Laser Treatments?
Laser therapy has become a go-to for smoothing out nasolabial folds — and for good reasons:
- Boosts your skin’s natural collagen: Lasers jumpstart your skin’s own repair process, helping it produce fresh collagen.
- Smooths and tightens: It’s not just about filling wrinkles; lasers improve overall skin texture and tone.
- Minimal downtime: You don’t have to plan weeks off — many treatments let you get back to your routine quickly.
- Long-lasting effects: With regular sessions, you can keep your skin looking younger longer.
The Best Laser Options for Nasolabial Folds
1. Fractional CO2 Laser
This one’s a powerhouse. It creates tiny, controlled injuries on the skin’s surface, which might sound scary but actually kickstarts serious collagen production and skin tightening.
- Why it rocks: Big improvements you can really see
- Heads up: Expect a few days of redness and peeling — so plan accordingly!
2. Non-Ablative Fractional Lasers (like Fraxel)
Less intense than the CO2 laser, these work beneath the skin without damaging the surface. They’re great if you want a gentler approach with less downtime.
- Why you’ll like it: Quick recovery and subtle, natural-looking results
- What to know: It may take a few sessions to get the full effect.
3. Nd:YAG Laser
This laser goes deep to tighten the skin by stimulating collagen from within. It’s often combined with other treatments for a well-rounded approach.
Pro Tip: Combine Lasers with Fillers for Best Results
Laser treatments are awesome, but pairing them with dermal fillers (think Juvederm or Restylane) can give you instant volume where your skin has thinned out. Add in some microneedling or PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma), and you’re supercharging your skin’s ability to bounce back.
What Happens During and After Treatment?
- During: Most laser sessions take about 30-60 minutes. You’ll likely get a numbing cream, so discomfort is minimal.
- After: Some redness, swelling, and peeling are normal. Just follow your provider’s aftercare advice to keep your skin happy.
Is Laser Treatment Right for You?
Most people can safely get laser treatments for nasolabial folds, but a quick chat with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon will help make sure it’s a good fit for your skin type and goals.
Bottom Line
You don’t have to live with those smile lines defining your face. Thanks to laser technology, smoothing out nasolabial folds is easier, more effective, and more convenient than ever. Ready to refresh your look? Schedule a consultation with a pro and see what’s possible.