How to Smooth out Laugh Lines

There are many kinds of fine lines people seek to soften and smooth as they age, and for some, laugh lines are high on the list. Laugh lines, also known as smile lines or nasolabial folds, are the lines and creases that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. "They are typically more pronounced when a person smiles or laughs, hence the name,'" says Shereene Idriss, MD. "It's a natural part of the aging process, and as we get wiser in life, they do become more noticeable." 

Over time, laugh lines become more pronounced for a number of reasons. "Laugh lines commonly appear as you age [due to] losing volume in the face and decreasing levels of collagen and elastin, which causes the skin to crease more easily," adds Dendy Engelman, MD. "These creases become more noticeable and permanent as the skin ages, depending on a variety of factors."

While laugh lines are a natural part of aging, there are ways to help prevent them and reduce their appearance if they're a concern. Ahead, find a breakdown of what causes laugh lines and how best to treat them.

Causes of Laugh Lines

There are many factors that contribute to the appearance of laugh lines. "It's a natural part of the aging process and with that comes loss of collagen and elastin, which gives your skin that bounce," says Dr. Idriss. "Reduced hydration in the skin as we age also makes lines and wrinkles more prominent." 

There are also factors that you can't control, such as genetics. "Genetics do play a role in how your skin ages and where wrinkles and lines tend to develop," she adds. "Chances are if your parents or grandparents have prominent laugh lines, you're prone to have them as well." 

Dr. Engelman agrees and adds that your diet, weight changes, smoking, and sun damage can also contribute to the formation of these lines. 

How to Prevent Laugh Lines

Because laugh lines are a natural part of aging, you can only really prevent them from appearing prematurely. Dr. Idriss says that factors that accelerate aging include sun exposure, smoking, and poor diet. So you'll want to keep these things to a minimum. "Wearing sunscreen, not smoking, and maintaining a balanced diet can go a long way in preventing pronounced laugh lines," she says. 

Dr. Engelman adds that the use of over-the-counter retinols are a great preventive measure against laugh lines as retinol is known for its anti-aging properties and will help stimulate collagen. You'll also want to look to hydrating ingredients, like hyaluronic acid and peptides, to improve your skin's elasticity in your daily routine.