The marks of time gradually appear on the face through small lines that form from the sides of the nose down to the corners of the mouth. These lines significantly affect overall facial harmony and are one of the main reasons many people seek nasolabial fold treatment. So what causes these smile lines to form? Let’s explore the underlying reasons with Keangnam Korea in the article below.
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What Causes Nasolabial Folds?
There are many factors that contribute to the formation of smile lines and deepen the need for nasolabial fold treatment. These causes are divided into internal and external factors.
1. Internal Causes
Skin structure: The skin around the mouth is thinner than other facial areas and contains fewer collagen and elastin fibers. Because of this, it is more prone to wrinkle formation.
Aging process: As the body ages, collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) decrease. This loss causes the skin to lose firmness and elasticity, leading to sagging and deeper nasolabial folds that often require nasolabial fold treatment.
Genetics: Some individuals develop smile lines earlier due to hereditary factors passed down from their parents.
2. External Causes
Dehydration: When the body lacks water, the skin becomes dry and more vulnerable to wrinkle formation.
Poor nutrition: An unbalanced diet deprives the skin of essential vitamins and minerals needed for regeneration and repair.
Sun exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays break down collagen and connective tissue under the skin, accelerating the formation of nasolabial folds.
Repetitive facial expressions: Frequent facial movements such as smiling or frowning create muscle folds that become permanent over time, increasing the likelihood of requiring nasolabial fold treatment.
Common Types of Smile Line Wrinkles
Depending on their characteristics, nasolabial folds are typically divided into three main types:
- Marionette lines: Wrinkles that extend downward from the corners of the mouth, creating a sad or tired appearance due to collagen breakdown and reduced elasticity.
- Nasolabial grooves: Lines running from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth, formed as facial ligaments weaken and skin begins to sag.
- Vertical lip lines: Fine lines above the lips caused by repeated lip movement, often deeper in individuals who smoke.

How to Prevent Nasolabial Folds
Preventing wrinkle formation is always easier than correcting it. Early prevention can delay the need for nasolabial fold treatment. Depending on your skin condition, consider the following measures:
When Smile Lines Are Mild or Not Yet Visible
- Proper makeup removal
- Regular exfoliation
- Daily moisturizing
- Consistent sunscreen use
- Anti-aging skincare products
These habits help maintain collagen levels and slow down the formation of nasolabial folds.
==> Smile Line Treatment: 7 Ways to Reduce Smile Lines at Home
When Smile Lines Become More Visible
If wrinkles have already appeared, you may apply supportive methods at home or consider aesthetic technologies for nasolabial fold treatment.
Because deep nasolabial folds are primarily caused by aging and sagging facial muscles, possible solutions include:
- Facial massage and facial yoga to stimulate blood circulation and muscle firmness
- Natural masks such as aloe vera, green tea, honey, or banana to hydrate and support collagen production
- A nutrient-rich diet including vegetables, fruits, protein from meat, eggs, and fish
- Modern aesthetic procedures such as endoscopic muscle lifting, exosome injections, dermal fillers, and botulinum toxin
However, these approaches may only reduce wrinkles and slow aging; they cannot completely eliminate deep nasolabial folds without professional nasolabial fold treatment.
When Should You Choose Professional Nasolabial Fold Treatment?

When nasolabial folds become deep and are accompanied by sagging skin and multiple aging signs, professional aesthetic intervention becomes necessary for long-lasting results.
Below are two commonly chosen nasolabial fold treatment solutions:
1. Endoscopic Muscle Lifting – No Pain, No Visible Scars
This method provides noticeable improvement after a single session. It not only reduces nasolabial folds but also enhances skin elasticity and slows the aging process.
At Keangnam Korea, specialists carefully assess each case, design a personalized treatment plan, perform precise muscle tightening, remove excess skin, and close the incision meticulously. Recovery typically takes 7–10 days, with results lasting 3–5 years depending on individual conditions.
2. Reborn Cell Extra+ Technology for Nasolabial Fold Treatment
With advanced rejuvenation technology such as Reborn Cell Extra+, deep smile lines are significantly improved.
This next-generation solution combines exosome stem cells with Nano Pal-Max technology to:
- Firm the skin and fill deep nasolabial folds
- Stimulate collagen regeneration
- Improve dull and pigmented skin
- Reduce submental fat for a slimmer facial contour
With comprehensive rejuvenation, nasolabial folds are minimized, and the skin appears firmer, smoother, and more youthful.