Nasolabial Folds: Causes & Skincare in Your 40s and 50s

Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, "Are the lines around my mouth becoming more noticeable?"

Perhaps you first noticed them when you smiled, but now you can see them even when your face is relaxed. Or maybe, since entering your 40s or 50s, your cheeks and the area around your mouth seem a little different from how they used to look.

Nasolabial folds become more noticeable for several reasons, including age-related changes in facial fat, the tissues that support the skin, skin elasticity and our natural facial structure. Together, these factors can make the folds running from the sides of the nose towards the mouth appear more defined.

Dryness and years of sun exposure can also influence the appearance of the skin around the mouth.

What makes nasolabial folds particularly interesting is that they are different from the fine lines we often associate with dry skin. Their appearance is closely connected to the three-dimensional structure of the face.

Understanding this difference can help you make more informed choices about skincare, especially as your skin's needs change with age.

In this guide, we'll explore what nasolabial folds are, why they may become more noticeable in your 40s and 50s, how skin dryness fits into the picture, which moisturising ingredients are worth knowing about, and how everyday skincare and makeup can help you care for the area around your mouth.

1. What Are Nasolabial Folds? Understanding the Lines Around Your Mouth

Nasolabial folds are the natural creases that run from either side of the nose towards the outer corners of the mouth.

The term comes from three parts: "naso" refers to the nose, "labial" relates to the lips, and "fold" describes a crease.

Unlike very fine surface lines, nasolabial folds are closely associated with the shape of the cheeks and the way they meet the area around the mouth.

Try looking at your face from a slight angle in the mirror.

You'll probably notice that your cheeks have a natural fullness. As the rounded cheeks meet the areas beside the nose and mouth, the contours of the face create a subtle change in shape.

Think of the rounded edge of a soft cushion. Where the fuller section meets a flatter surface, a natural change in contour appears. This is a simple way to imagine the three-dimensional nature of facial folds.

Facial structure varies considerably from person to person.

Some people have naturally fuller cheeks, while others have more prominent cheekbones or a different shape around the mouth. These differences help explain why nasolabial folds may be clearly visible even in someone's 20s or 30s.

Facial expressions also change their appearance.

When you smile, your cheeks lift and the skin around the nose and mouth moves, making the natural crease more pronounced. When your face relaxes, the fold may look softer.

As we get older, the same fold may become more visible even when the face is at rest.

Nasolabial folds are therefore a normal feature of facial anatomy, influenced by individual facial structure, expression and changes over time.

2. Why Do Nasolabial Folds Become More Noticeable? Facial Anatomy and Skin Changes

To understand why nasolabial folds become more defined, it helps to look beneath the surface of the skin.

Our faces are made up of several interconnected structures, including skin, fat, muscles, connective tissues and bone.

Together, these structures give each face its individual shape.

One of the most interesting elements is facial fat.

Rather than forming one continuous layer, much of the fat beneath the facial skin is organised into distinct compartments.

An anatomical study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery described these facial fat compartments and their importance in understanding facial structure.

Fat in the inner cheek, outer cheek and areas beside the nose contributes to the contours of the face in different ways.

Over time, changes in the volume and distribution of facial fat, along with changes in supporting tissues, can alter the relationship between the cheeks and the area around the mouth.

As a result, the boundary between these areas may become more noticeable.

The skin itself also changes with age.

Within the dermis, the layer beneath the outer epidermis, are structural proteins such as collagen and elastin.

Collagen forms part of the fibrous framework that supports the skin, while elastin contributes to its ability to stretch and return towards its original shape.

These are familiar names from skincare labels, but here we're talking about the proteins naturally present in human skin.

Ageing and environmental exposure are associated with changes in the skin's structure and physical characteristics.

The underlying facial bones also provide part of the framework that gives the face its shape, and research into facial ageing considers changes in these deeper structures as well.

There's another surprising factor worth considering: lighting.

Your face may look different under soft, even bathroom lighting compared with strong light coming from one side.

When shadows form along the boundary between the cheeks and mouth, the folds can appear deeper or more defined.

The appearance of nasolabial folds therefore reflects both the physical contours of the face and the way light reveals those contours.

3. Why Nasolabial Folds May Become More Noticeable in Your 40s and 50s

Perhaps you hardly noticed the area around your mouth in your 30s, but things started looking a little different in your 40s.

This can reflect a combination of natural ageing, environmental exposure and changes in the skin's overall condition.

During their 40s, some people become more aware of changes in skin firmness and moisture.

For example, your skin might feel tighter after washing, your foundation may sit differently by late afternoon, or a richer moisturiser may start to feel more comfortable than the lightweight products you preferred years ago.

Long-term sun exposure is another important consideration.

Changes to the skin associated with repeated ultraviolet exposure are commonly referred to as photoageing.

Unlike temporary redness after spending too much time in the sun, photoageing refers to changes associated with exposure accumulated over many years.

Time spent outdoors, sun-protective clothing and sunscreen habits vary widely from person to person. These differences contribute to the variety we see in skin appearance among people of the same age.

In your 50s, changes associated with menopause may also become part of the picture.

Oestrogen, one of the body's hormones, is involved in several aspects of skin physiology, including its structure and moisture balance.

Research into menopausal skin describes changes involving collagen, elasticity and dryness around this stage of life.

You may find, for instance, that a moisturising cream feels more comfortable than a lotion you once used on its own.

The timing and degree of these changes vary. Some women experience noticeable dryness in their 40s, while others continue to have relatively comfortable, well-moisturised skin into their 50s and beyond.

Changes in body weight can also influence facial appearance.

When facial fat volume changes, the contours of the cheeks and the boundaries around the mouth may look different. This is one reason someone may notice changes in their facial appearance after losing a considerable amount of weight.

Rather than choosing skincare solely according to an age printed on the packaging, it makes sense to consider your current skin condition, the climate you live in and the textures you enjoy using.

4. Dry Skin and Nasolabial Folds: Understanding the Difference

Have you ever noticed that the fine lines around your mouth seem more visible towards the end of the day?

Dryness may be one part of the explanation.

The outermost layer of the skin is called the stratum corneum, commonly known as the outer layer of the epidermis.

Although it is remarkably thin, it plays an important role in retaining moisture and helping protect the skin from the outside environment.

Between the cells of this layer are lipids, including ceramides, cholesterol and free fatty acids.

These lipids are important components of the skin barrier.

One way to picture the arrangement is to imagine a brick wall.

The outer skin cells resemble bricks, while the lipids occupying the spaces between them act somewhat like the material holding the wall together.

This familiar analogy makes it easier to understand how the outer skin layer is organised, although real skin is considerably more complex.

When skin becomes dry, it may feel rough or tight, and its surface can appear less smooth.

Fine lines associated with dryness can also become more noticeable, while foundation may look uneven or settle differently on the skin.

This is where everyday moisturising skincare becomes particularly relevant.

Depending on your skin type, lotions, serums, emulsions and creams can all be incorporated into a routine designed to maintain moisture in the outer skin layer.

It helps, however, to distinguish two different features: the deeper facial fold created by the contours of the cheek, and the finer surface lines associated with dry skin.

A moisturiser is designed to help hydrate, soften and care for the skin. Its role is different from physically changing the underlying structure of a facial fold.

For daily skincare, the practical focus is on keeping the skin around your mouth comfortably moisturised and feeling smooth.

5. Choosing Moisturising Ingredients and Skincare Products for the Skin Around Your Mouth

Walk through any beauty department and you'll see familiar ingredient names such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, collagen and squalane.

But what should you look for when your skin starts feeling different in your 40s or 50s?

Understanding the different characteristics of moisturising ingredients can make skincare shopping more enjoyable and help you choose products that suit your preferences.

Hyaluronic acid, for example, is well known for its ability to bind water and is widely used as a moisturising ingredient in cosmetics.

Glycerin is another familiar ingredient. It is commonly included in toners, serums, lotions and creams to help maintain skin moisture.

Ceramides are a type of lipid naturally found in the outer layer of the skin. Different types of ceramides are also incorporated into skincare formulations designed for moisturising.

Then there are oil-based ingredients such as squalane, plant oils and lanolin.

Squalane is widely used in cosmetic formulations to help leave the skin feeling soft and smooth. It can also be found in products with relatively lightweight textures.

Lanolin is an ingredient derived from wool and has a long history of use in moisturising creams and lip-care products.

It has a particularly interesting connection with New Zealand, a country well known for its sheep farming and wool industry.

Collagen is another popular ingredient that often appears on skincare labels.

In cosmetic formulations, collagen is generally used for moisturising purposes. When reading ingredient information, it helps to distinguish the intended cosmetic use of an ingredient from its natural role inside the human body.

So how do you choose between these options?

If you enjoy fresh, lightweight textures, a hydrating toner or gel serum containing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin may suit your preferences.

If your skin tends to feel dry and you prefer a richer finish, a lotion or cream containing emollient oils may be more appealing.

One detail worth remembering is that two products containing the same headline ingredient can feel completely different on the skin.

That's because a cosmetic product is a complete formulation, not a single ingredient.

The balance of water and oil, along with emulsifiers, thickeners and other ingredients, helps create everything from a refreshing gel to a rich cream.

Even two hyaluronic acid products may offer noticeably different textures and application experiences.

Looking beyond the ingredient highlighted on the front of the packaging can therefore make skincare selection much more interesting.

You might enjoy a lighter moisturiser in the morning and a richer cream in the evening. Seasonal changes may also influence what feels most comfortable.

If your cheeks feel drier than other parts of your face, you can adjust the amount of moisturiser used in different areas.

The goal is to find a combination of ingredients and textures that suits your current skin condition and makes your everyday skincare routine enjoyable.

When trying a new product, introduce it carefully and check how your skin responds. Stop using it if redness, itching or irritation develops, and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.

6. Morning and Evening Skincare Routines in Your 40s and 50s

A simple way to organise daily skincare is to think about what your skin needs in the morning and in the evening.

In the morning, the focus is on gently cleansing the skin, providing moisture and preparing for everyday sun exposure.

If your skin feels oily when you wake up, you may prefer a gentle facial cleanser suited to your skin type.

For skin that tends to feel dry, it may be worth reviewing the cleanser you use, how much you apply and how long you spend washing. Lukewarm water is generally a comfortable choice.

After cleansing, apply your preferred hydrating toner or serum, followed by a lotion or cream if your skin needs additional moisture.

One especially important part of a morning routine is sunscreen.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

Apply sunscreen carefully across exposed areas, including the cheeks, sides of the nose, area around the mouth and jawline.

When spending extended periods outdoors, use the amount directed on the product and reapply as appropriate. A hat, shade and other sun-protective measures can also be useful additions.

Sunscreens come in many textures, including creams, lotions, fluids and gels.

Choosing a formula that feels comfortable under makeup and suits your skin can make daily use easier to maintain.

In the evening, the focus shifts towards removing makeup, cleansing and moisturising.

If you wear makeup, choose a cleansing product suitable for the cosmetics you have used that day.

Gently massage or spread the cleanser according to the product instructions, avoiding unnecessary rubbing. Rinse carefully with lukewarm water.

After cleansing, use your preferred combination of hydrating products and moisturiser.

When applying cream around the cheeks and mouth, use the pads of your fingers and spread it gently over the skin.

Pay attention to areas beside the nose and near the corners of the mouth, where it can be easy to miss a small patch during application.

A skincare routine doesn't need to be complicated to be enjoyable.

A few carefully chosen products that suit your skin and daily schedule may be more practical than a long series of steps.

Everyday wellbeing also deserves attention.

A balanced diet can include protein-rich foods such as fish, meat, eggs or soy products, together with vegetables, fruit and other nutritious foods.

Regular sleep and sufficient rest are equally worthwhile parts of a healthy lifestyle.

By combining comfortable skincare with habits that fit your routine, caring for your skin can become a pleasant part of your day.

7. Makeup Tips for the Area Around Nasolabial Folds

If you're conscious of the folds around your mouth, a few small changes to your base makeup routine may help you achieve the finish you prefer.

The mouth is one of the most expressive parts of the face.

We move it while talking, eating, laughing and smiling. Because of this frequent movement, heavier foundation may gather in facial creases as the day goes on.

A good starting point is to prepare the skin before applying makeup.

After moisturising, allow your skincare products to settle so the surface no longer feels excessively slippery.

Then apply foundation in thin layers, beginning around the central cheeks and blending outwards.

Use a smaller amount around the sides of the nose and mouth, where facial movement can influence how makeup sits.

Your fingertips or a small, clean makeup sponge can make it easier to control the amount you apply.

If foundation tends to collect around a fold, gently press the area with a clean sponge to remove excess product before finishing your makeup.

Concealer can also be used sparingly around areas where you want a more even-looking makeup finish.

Choose a shade that blends naturally with your complexion. A colour that is dramatically lighter than the surrounding skin may be more noticeable than intended.

Foundation finishes also vary.

Dewy products reflect light and can create a luminous appearance, while matte formulas tend to give a more subdued finish.

Which one you prefer will depend on your skin type, the occasion and your overall makeup style.

Face powder is another product that can be applied selectively.

You may prefer a little more powder on areas that become oily, such as the forehead or sides of the nose, and a lighter touch around areas that tend to feel dry.

For a quick afternoon touch-up, first gently blot away excess oil or perspiration with a tissue.

Then apply a small amount of foundation only where needed, rather than adding another full layer across the entire lower face.

Finally, try checking your makeup in soft, even lighting.

Strong directional light can emphasise facial shadows, while more balanced lighting makes it easier to judge foundation colour and coverage.

A light, carefully blended application around the mouth can create a natural-looking makeup finish that works with your facial expressions.

8. Nasolabial Folds, Marionette Lines and Malar Creases: What's the Difference?

Nasolabial folds aren't the only lines or creases you may notice as your facial appearance changes over time.

Two other terms frequently appear in beauty discussions: marionette lines and malar creases.

Although these terms all describe features of facial appearance, they refer to different locations.

Marionette lines generally describe creases extending downwards from the corners of the mouth towards the chin.

The name comes from their resemblance to the lines around the moving mouth of a marionette or ventriloquist's dummy.

If you picture a traditional puppet with a movable lower jaw, the location becomes easier to imagine.

Another term you may encounter is malar crease, which refers broadly to a crease or groove associated with the cheek region.

In Japanese beauty discussions, the expression "Golgo line" is sometimes used for a diagonal groove extending from beneath the inner eye area towards the middle of the cheek.

This is a popular beauty term rather than a universally standardised medical diagnosis, and the precise anatomical features described may vary.

Here's a simple comparison of the three commonly discussed facial features.

The important distinction is that facial lines do not all form in the same place or have the same underlying characteristics.

Some are associated primarily with repeated facial movement, while others are influenced by the natural contours and deeper structures of the face.

Learning where these features appear can make beauty terminology easier to understand.

You can also approach daily skincare according to the needs of different areas of the face.

For example, a richer moisturiser may feel particularly comfortable on dry cheeks, while a lighter product may be preferable on oilier areas.

Understanding your facial features and skin preferences is a useful starting point for creating a skincare routine that feels right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Why are my nasolabial folds more noticeable on one side of my face?

Facial bones, muscles and fat are naturally somewhat asymmetrical. Differences in facial expressions may also make one side look more defined than the other. However, sudden facial drooping, weakness on one side of the face or difficulty speaking may be signs of a medical emergency, including a stroke. Seek emergency medical assistance immediately if these symptoms occur.

Q2. Can I use a sheet mask around my nasolabial folds?

A facial sheet mask intended for moisturising can usually be incorporated into your skincare routine, including around the mouth where the product is designed to be applied. Follow the recommended application time and frequency. You can use a lotion or cream afterwards if appropriate for your skin. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Q3. Does sleeping on my side influence facial folds?

Side sleeping places pressure on the part of the face resting against the pillow. Researchers have explored possible relationships between sleep-related pressure and skin creases, but sleeping position alone does not determine the depth of nasolabial folds. Comfortable sleep and sufficient rest remain important everyday priorities.

Q4. Is facial massage suitable if I am concerned about nasolabial folds?

If you enjoy facial massage, use gentle movements and avoid excessive rubbing or pressure. It is best to regard massage as a personal-care practice rather than a way to alter deeper facial structures. If you have specific concerns about the appearance of facial folds, a dermatologist can discuss appropriate options with you.

Q5. Why do my nasolabial folds sometimes seem to become deeper quite suddenly?

Changes in body weight, temporary facial puffiness, skin dryness and photographic lighting can all influence facial appearance. If you notice a sudden, substantial change in facial shape, particularly with pain, swelling or other unusual symptoms, seek medical advice.

Conclusion | Understanding Nasolabial Folds and Enjoying Skincare in Your 40s and 50s

Nasolabial folds are natural facial creases that run from the sides of the nose towards the mouth.

Changes in facial fat, supporting tissues and skin characteristics can make these folds more noticeable with age.

For everyday skincare in your 40s and 50s, choosing moisturising products that suit your current skin condition and maintaining a consistent sun-protection routine are useful priorities.

Small adjustments to foundation and concealer application can also help you create a natural-looking makeup finish around the mouth.

By understanding your skin and natural facial features, you can make more informed skincare choices and enjoy a routine that suits your lifestyle.

References and Further Reading

The following scientific and dermatological resources provide further information on facial anatomy, skin barrier structure, age-related skin changes and sun protection.

1. Rohrich RJ, Pessa JE. (2007). The Fat Compartments of the Face: Anatomy and Clinical Implications for Cosmetic Surgery. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 119(7), 2219–2227.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17519724/
2. van Smeden J, Bouwstra JA. (2016). Stratum Corneum Lipids: Their Role for the Skin Barrier Function in Healthy Subjects and Atopic Dermatitis Patients. Current Problems in Dermatology, 49, 8–26.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26844894/
3. Uchida Y, Park K. (2021). Ceramides in Skin Health and Disease: An Update. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 22(6), 853–866.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34283373/
4. Hadi H, Wilkinson CM. (2017). Categorizing Facial Creases: A Review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 16(2), 180–185.
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28145033/
5. American Academy of Dermatology. Caring for Your Skin in Menopause.
   American Academy of Dermatology – Official Resource
6. American Academy of Dermatology. How to Select a Sunscreen.
   American Academy of Dermatology – Official Resource