Smiles lines, technically known as nasolabial folds are wrinkles or crease that emerge on the face and forms a line extending from the sides of the nose or eyes, and can extend as far down to the chin. These lines are called “smile line” because they appear on the face when a person laughs, but they can still be a static creases or wrinkles on the face even when a person is not laughing.
As we age, our facial expressions become more intense, and wrinkles like “smile lines” may become unavoidable. As a result of this, most people find “smile lines” disturbing but the amazing thing is that these wrinkles or crease that appears on the face can be treated with so many options. The causes of smile lines and the measures to take so as to get rid of these smile lines on the face will be reviewed in this article.
CAUSES OF SMILE LINES ON THE FACE
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Medical professionals have investigated the reasons of smile lines, and it has been discovered that the following are primary causes of smile lines:
- Damage caused by the sun
Exposure to the ultraviolent (UV) radiation in the sun can result to “smile lines” appearing on the face.
- Collagen
Collagen is an important component of the skin. Collagen are proteins found in the connective bone, tissue, skill, cartilage and tendon. Collagen is responsible for strengthening, stretching and defining the facial structure. Smile lines can occur on the face due to a lack of collagen in the body.
- Genetics
Facial pattern or structure can be passed down from one’s parent, and this can have a significant impact in the development of wrinkles, particularly smile lines.
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- Dehydrated Skin.
Dehydrated Skin, is a skin condition typically associated with a person’s lifestyle choice, diet and external factor including seasonal changes. A dehydrated skin has a large amount of water in the body not oil, so a shortage of water in the body can lead to smile lines appearing on the face.
- Smoking
Smoking can result in smile lines appearing on the face because the chemicals in cigarettes damages the collagen in the body.
TREATMENTS FOR SMILE LINES.
When it comes to smile lines, there are numerous ways options available ranging from exercise, natural therapies, surgical solutions, or cosmetic procedures. It is critical not to attempt self- treatment but consulting a dermatologist who understands various skin types and skin conditions will be advised.
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- Surgery
Surgery is among the favorable choice for people wanting significant results that lasts longer. Face lift surgery, technical called “rhytidectomy”, is recommended for people looking for a long-term solution to smile lines. In a research conducted by American Society of Plastic Surgeons, facelift is the most expensive option for smile lines and it takes a duration of three months to heal. Infections, pain, scarring or nerve damage are major risks to consider when opting for facelift.
- OTC creams
For affordable treatment of smile lines, OTC (Over-the counter) creams is recommended but takes months to work and a permanent result would not be obtained. Side effects includes rashes, burning, discoloration and redness of the face.
- Injectable fillers
Injectable fillers are made from hyaluronic acid. It can be injected at the wrinkles that moves from the nose to the mouth. Injectable fillers last for 6-12 months and the effect takes effect immediately on the face. Common brand names include Restylane, Radiesse (made from calcium hydroxyapatite) and Juvederm. Side effects includes reactions (allergies), and headache usually occurring at the initial stage of application.
- Laser treatments’
Laser treatments is a medically procedure that removes the top layer of skin cells. It helps in the reduction of wrinkles and skin spots. Side effects includes infection, scarring, pain and swelling. When opting for laser treatment, it is important to embark on a second treatment within few months of the first treatment.
- Collagen induction therapy
This medical procedure helps in the increasement of collagen production in one’s skin. With the collagen induction, smile lines can be eliminated and it takes about 9months for the results to show on the face. Side effects includes wounds, discoloration, redness which occurs as the skin heals.
- Exercise
Exercise plays a vital role in tightening and lifting the face which can help in reducing laugh lines. When opting for exercise treatment, follow these steps:
- Use your forefingers to apply pressure to the smile lines around your mouth
- Smile with the lips apart
- Hold the smile for 5-10 seconds
- Loosen up and repeat the process again
- Makeup
Makeup is applied to hide smiles lines on the face. People opt for makeup, for a far less invasive solution. Makeup tutorials are available online to offer insights on how to cover smile lines with the use of cosmetics on the face.
- Other natural remedies include moisturizing the face, rubbing lemon juice or oil such as coconut oil directly on the wrinkles, and drinking plenty water.
HOW TO PREVENT SMILE LINES
Due to aging process, smile lines becomes unavoidable as the skin loses its elasticity. However, smile lines can still be curbed or delayed to make it less dramatic. To prevent smiles lines on the face:
- Have a balanced diet that is rich in protein and nutrients
- Avoid smoking tobacco
- Keep your skin dehydrated
- Avoid direct contact with the skin
- Avoid fluctuations in your body’s weight.