Due to regulatory guidelines, we are unable to list specific brand names on our website and have used replacement terms instead. To find out what these terms refer to, please contact us directly.
Due to regulatory guidelines, we are unable to list specific brand names on our website and have used replacement terms instead. To find out what these terms refer to, please contact us directly.
Due to regulatory guidelines, we are unable to list specific brand names on our website and have used replacement terms instead. To find out what these terms refer to, please contact us directly.
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How to Get Rid of Smile Lines, TikTok’s Latest Obsession

By SL Aesthetic Clinic
  • Published Date:
Last Updated:
July 25, 2025
Jennie of Blackpink Smile Lines - Smile Lines Treatment

TL;DR 

  • Smile lines (nasolabial folds) are normal and often caused by facial structure, not just ageing
  • Effective treatments include laser lifts, HIFU, RF Thermalift FLX, and fillers, tailored to the depth and cause of the folds.
  • The goal isn’t to erase smile lines completely, but to soften them while preserving natural facial expression and structure.

Table of Contents

Smile lines, or nasolabial folds, are a perfectly normal part of human anatomy. In fact, even babies have them. These natural folds run from the sides of your nose down to the corners of your mouth, and they help give our faces beautiful dimension and expression.

But as we age, or if we’re genetically predisposed, these lines can deepen and become more pronounced. For some, that’s perfectly fine. For others, it can feel like an unwelcome sign of ageing. If you’re reading this, you’re probably wondering if there’s anything you can do about them—and the good news is: yes, there absolutely is.

If you have smile lines, talk to us today.

What causes smile lines at a young age? Are smile lines wrinkles?

Smile lines are primarily caused by your facial structure, the soft tissue volume in your midface, and your skin’s natural elasticity. They’re not technically wrinkles in the traditional sense—more like creases that become more visible as skin changes over time. Even young people can develop visible nasolabial folds simply because their cheeks are full and pressing forward.

For instance, look at celebrities like Maggie Gyllenhaal. She’s gorgeous, but because of her facial structure, her smile lines were already prominent even in her twenties. This isn’t a flaw—it’s simply facial anatomy at work. Same for BLACKPINK’s Jennie, who looks youthful despite her nasolabial folds due to her full cheeks.

Over time, however, factors such as collagen loss, fat pad descent, thinning skin, and repetitive muscle movement can deepen these folds, making them more noticeable.

Are smile lines caused by smiling a lot?

I promise you: smiling does not cause smile lines. If anything, the world could use more smiles!

Smile lines form because of your bone structure, genetics, and how your skin responds to ageing. While repetitive facial movements such as smiling may temporarily accentuate the fold, they’re not the root cause of permanent lines. The folds tend to become etched deeper into the skin as the underlying support structures weaken with time.

So no, you don’t need to stop smiling to prevent smile lines—And if any article tells you otherwise, close that tab immediately.

Still unsure what’s causing your lines? Get a quick opinion — Call us now.

Does chewing gum reduce smile lines?

Chewing gum won’t reduce smile lines. Excessive repetitive motion from chewing might contribute slightly to muscle overactivity around the mouth over many years, but this isn’t the main culprit behind nasolabial folds.

Do smile line patches work?

You may have seen influencers promoting silicone smile line patches that claim to smooth out these folds overnight. Do they work?

Well, yes and no. These patches can help temporarily hydrate and smooth superficial fine lines by preventing skin creasing while you sleep, much like silicone scar sheets. They create an occlusive barrier that locks in moisture and reduces skin folding for short-term benefits.

However, they don’t address the underlying structural causes of smile lines—things like fat loss, collagen depletion, or tissue sagging. So, while they’re harmless as part of your skincare routine, they’re not a substitute for proper in-clinic treatments if you’re looking for more noticeable, long-term improvement.

When should I see a doctor for smile lines?

It’s perfectly okay to seek help if you’re developing deeper folds earlier than expected, as this may indicate changes in facial volume or skin quality that could benefit from early treatment. Also, if your folds are starting to appear asymmetrical, it can sometimes reflect imbalances in facial structure that are worth evaluating professionally.

When skincare and lifestyle changes aren’t improving things as much as you’d hoped, we can help guide you towards more effective in-clinic options. And, of course, if you’re feeling self-conscious or bothered by the way your smile lines look, seeking professional advice is entirely valid and empowering.

Smile lines aren’t dangerous, but there’s no harm in getting a personalised assessment if they bother you. Often, early intervention gives better, more natural-looking results.

We’re here if you’re ready. Call now or WhatsApp us for a quick consultation.

Can I prevent smile lines from forming with DIY solutions?

Prevention isn’t always 100% possible, but you can definitely slow down the ageing process with:

  • Sun protection: Daily SPF remains your best anti-ageing investment.
  • Hydration: Well-moisturised skin resists fine lines better.
  • Healthy sleep habits: Skin repairs itself during sleep.
  • Medical skincare: Products containing retinoids, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and vitamin C can support collagen production.
  • Prejuvenation treatments: Non-invasive procedures, such as laser- or ultrasound-based skin tightening, can help maintain facial structure before significant ageing occurs.

While these personal methods are helpful, we also offer in-clinic solutions for those concerned about more extensive nasolabial folds.

Treatment options to reduce smile lines

At our clinic, we offer a range of safe and effective treatments to address smile lines, tailored to their severity and your overall aesthetic goals.

6D Laser Lift (from $630 per session)

This multi-layer laser treatment targets both superficial and deeper tissues to stimulate collagen, tighten skin, and restore firmness. It works particularly well for mild to moderate smile lines, offering gradual lifting with minimal downtime.

Ultraformer MPT HIFU Lifting (from $350 per session)

Ultraformer MPT uses focused ultrasound waves to target the SMAS layer—the same layer addressed in surgical facelifts. It triggers collagen remodelling and gentle lifting, softening the appearance of folds without incisions or recovery time.

RF Thermalift FLX (from $2,900 per session)

RF Thermalift FLX uses radiofrequency to heat deep skin layers, stimulating collagen production and tightening existing collagen fibres. One of the reasons RF Thermalift FLX comes at a higher price point is because a single session can produce long-lasting results that often last a year or more.

Many patients appreciate that RF Thermalift FLX offers longevity and requires fewer sessions overall, plus natural-looking results with virtually no downtime, making it a convenient investment for those seeking noticeable improvement without repeated visits.

Dermal Fillers (from $700 per session)

In some cases, adding volume directly under the nasolabial fold with hyaluronic acid fillers can soften the depth of the crease and support midface volume. However, proper placement is key—overfilling the fold itself can look unnatural. Our goal is always to offer patients a subtle, harmonious correction.

It's about balance, not erasure

Smile lines are part of how our faces move and express joy. The goal isn’t to erase them entirely—it’s to soften and refresh while preserving the beauty of natural facial movement.

With the right combination of prevention, skincare, and non-invasive treatments, it’s entirely possible to maintain youthful, elegant contours without losing what makes your face uniquely yours.

If you’re considering options for your smile lines, our team will be happy to assess your skin and create a personalised treatment plan. A quick consultation can help you understand your options and guide you towards the safest, most effective solutions.

Book your consultation.

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