Best Fillers for Nasolabial Folds: What You Need to Know

Best Fillers for Nasolabial Folds: What You Need to Know

As we age, one of the most noticeable changes in our face is the development of Nasolabial Folds—the deep lines that run from the sides of the nose down to the corners of the mouth. While these folds are completely natural, they can become more pronounced with time, leading many people to seek cosmetic solutions to soften their appearance.

Among the most effective treatments available are dermal fillers, which can restore lost volume, smooth the skin, and rejuvenate the face without the need for surgery. If you're considering treatment, this guide breaks down the best fillers for Nasolabial Folds, how they work, and what to expect before and after the procedure.

What Are Nasolabial Folds?

Nasolabial Folds—also known as smile lines or laugh lines—are creases that form between the nose and the mouth. These lines develop naturally due to:

• Aging and volume loss in the cheeks

• Repeated facial expressions (smiling, laughing)

• Gravity and reduced skin elasticity

• Sun damage and lifestyle factors such as smoking

While everyone has them to some extent, they can become more visible over time, often making the face look tired or aged. Fortunately, dermal fillers offer a safe and effective solution to restore a smoother, more youthful contour.

How Fillers Work for Nasolabial Folds

Dermal fillers are injectable gels typically made of hyaluronic acid (HA)—a naturally occurring substance in the skin that attracts moisture and adds volume. When injected into the Nasolabial Folds, fillers can:

• Plump the area beneath the fold

• Reduce the depth of the crease

• Lift and support surrounding tissue

• Enhance overall facial harmony

The results are immediate, non-surgical, and typically last between 6 and 18 months, depending on the product used.

Best Types of Fillers for Nasolabial Folds

Choosing the right filler depends on the depth of the folds, your skin type, and the results you want to achieve. Here are the top dermal fillers used by professionals to treat Nasolabial Folds:

1. Juvederm Ultra Plus / Juvederm Voluma

Juvederm is one of the most popular filler brands worldwide, and for good reason. Its smooth gel consistency makes it ideal for treating moderate to deep facial lines, including Nasolabial Folds.

• Juvederm Ultra Plus is great for more pronounced lines.

• Juvederm Voluma can also be used in the mid-cheek area to indirectly soften folds by lifting the cheeks.

Longevity: 9 to 12 months
Best for: Natural-looking volume and lift

2. Restylane Defyne

Restylane Defyne is a hyaluronic acid filler specifically designed to target deeper lines and maintain facial movement. It’s formulated with cross-linking technology, making it ideal for folds that appear during facial expressions.

Longevity: Up to 12 months
Best for: Deep, dynamic Nasolabial Folds in younger or more expressive faces

3. Belotero Balance

Belotero is known for its light, cohesive texture, which integrates smoothly into the skin. It’s particularly effective for finer lines or shallow folds.

Longevity: 6 to 9 months
Best for: Early-stage Nasolabial Folds or subtle enhancement

4. Radiesse

Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, Radiesse is made from calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres suspended in a gel. It not only provides immediate volume but also stimulates natural collagen production over time.

Longevity: 12 to 18 months
Best for: Severe Nasolabial Folds and long-lasting results

Note: Radiesse is not reversible like HA fillers, so make sure you’re comfortable with the provider’s skill before choosing this option.

5. Teosyal RHA 4

Teosyal’s RHA (Resilient Hyaluronic Acid) line is designed for areas of the face that move frequently. RHA 4 is particularly suitable for treating deeper creases such as Nasolabial Folds, offering flexibility and durability.

Longevity: Up to 15 months
Best for: Patients seeking long-lasting but dynamic results

Combination Treatments for Enhanced Results

In some cases, Nasolabial Folds are not just caused by volume loss in the folds themselves, but by mid-face deflation. To address this, many practitioners recommend a combination of:

• Cheek fillers: to restore volume higher up in the face, lifting the skin and reducing the appearance of the folds

• Lip Fillers: for those who want to balance the lower facial features after treating the folds, especially if volume loss is noticeable around the mouth

Combination treatments can provide a more balanced, youthful look that targets both the cause and the visible symptoms.

What to Expect During and After Treatment

Consultation

Your provider will assess your facial anatomy, skin condition, and treatment goals. You’ll discuss which filler is right for your needs and review possible risks.

Procedure

• Takes about 15–30 minutes

• Injections are done with a fine needle or cannula

• Numbing cream or lidocaine in the filler minimizes discomfort

• You’ll see results immediately

Recovery

• Mild swelling, redness, or bruising can occur and usually fades within a few days

• Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and facial massage for 24–48 hours

• Follow any aftercare advice given by your practitioner

How Long Do Filler Results Last?

The duration of results depends on:

• The type of filler used

• Your metabolism

• The severity of your Nasolabial Folds

• Lifestyle factors (e.g. smoking, sun exposure)

On average, results last 9–12 months, though some premium products like Radiesse or Teosyal RHA can last up to 18 months.

Are Fillers Safe for Nasolabial Folds?

Yes, when administered by a qualified medical professional, fillers are considered safe and low-risk. However, side effects can include:

• Temporary swelling, redness, or bruising

• Lumps or asymmetry (usually correctable)

• Rare but serious complications if injected improperly, such as vascular occlusion

Always choose a licensed and experienced practitioner who specializes in facial aesthetics to ensure safety and satisfaction.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Filler for Your Nasolabial Folds

If you’re ready to soften those deep smile lines and rejuvenate your appearance, dermal fillers offer a highly effective, non-invasive solution. The best filler for Nasolabial Folds depends on your facial structure, the depth of your lines, and how natural or dramatic you want the results to be.

Whether you go for a soft HA filler like Belotero or a more robust option like Radiesse, the key is working with a trusted professional who understands facial balance and anatomy.

And remember, for those considering other enhancements, treatments like Lip Fillers can complement nasolabial fold correction for a fully refreshed look.