What Are Laughter Lines and How Do You Treat Them?
Laugh lines are a natural part of ageing skin, but for many people, they can become more noticeable over time. Also known as smile lines or crow’s feet, these fine lines and wrinkles are often one of the first facial features to change with age, sun exposure, and repeated facial expressions like smiling or frowning.
If you are starting to notice deeper folds around the eyes or mouth, or want to understand what can be done to soften their appearance. This guide explains what laughter lines are and how they can be improved with safe, effective professional treatments. Botox being just one of them.
What Causes Laughter Lines?
Laughter lines are caused by repeated facial muscle contractions over time, along with gradual changes in skin elasticity and collagen levels. Every time you smile, squint, or laugh, the muscles around your eyes and mouth contract. In younger skin, collagen and elastin help it bounce back. As you age, these fibres decline, and the skin loses its ability to smooth itself out. Other contributing factors include:
- Sun damage, which accelerates natural ageing
- Smoking, which affects oxygenation and skin repair
- Genetics, which influence how your skin ages
- Repetitive facial movements in high-mobility areas
- Poor skincare routine, dehydration, or lack of protection
Laughter lines usually appear in two areas:
- Crow’s feet, which radiate from the corners of the eyes
- Nasolabial folds and marionette lines, which run from the nose or mouth toward the jawline
When Do Laughter Lines Typically Appear?
Most people begin to notice laughter lines in their late twenties to early thirties, although it varies depending on genetics, skin type, and lifestyle. Some may notice shallow lines early on that remain unchanged for years, while others develop more visible creases with frequent movement or stress.
Addressing these lines early with subtle injectable treatments, quality skin care, or anti-ageing treatments can make a visible difference without the need for a facelift or surgical intervention.
Are Laughter Lines a Bad Thing?
Not at all. Laughter lines reflect joy, emotion, and character. In many cases, people want to maintain a natural, expressive look while keeping lines soft and less pronounced. There is no need to erase emotion, only to restore balance.
However, if lines around the eyes or mouth are making you feel older, tired, or self conscious, there are gentle ways to smooth them without losing expression. As an aesthetic doctor, Dr Ahmed supports treatments that enhance your features while preserving your individuality.
What Are the Treatment Options?
Several cosmetic procedures can help reduce the appearance of laughter lines, depending on the depth of the lines and your goals.
Anti-Wrinkle Injections
Botulinum toxin injections, such as Botox injections, are commonly used to treat crow’s feet and other dynamic wrinkles caused by movement. These relax the facial muscles, softening lines and preventing them from deepening. Results typically last three to four months.
Dermal Fillers
For deeper folds such as marionette lines, injectable fillers like dermal fillers or calcium hydroxylapatite can restore lost volume and support the skin from within. Fillers are also used to lift the midface, reducing strain on the lower face and indirectly softening smile lines.
Skin Boosters and Polynucleotides
These are ideal for fine crepiness or mild skin laxity. Skin boosters improve hydration, while polynucleotides help rebuild skin from a cellular level, supporting long-term rejuvenation.
Laser Resurfacing and Microneedling
For early signs of ageing, laser treatment and microneedling stimulate collagen and improve texture. They are often used alongside other treatments to enhance overall skin tone and quality.
Each treatment plan is fully tailored to the individual, combining multiple approaches where needed to improve skin problems and support lasting results.
Can You Prevent Laughter Lines?
You cannot stop facial movement, but you can slow the development of deeper lines. Key prevention tips include:
- Daily use of SPF and barrier-supporting skincare
- Staying hydrated and avoiding smoking
- Following a consistent skincare routine
- Managing stress and getting proper sleep
- Using facial exercises thoughtfully
- Exploring preventative aesthetic treatments like light Botox or skin boosters
Dr Ahmed often sees patients in their late twenties or early thirties who wish to prevent lines from forming or deepening as part of a natural anti-ageing treatment plan.
What About Aftercare and Recovery?
Recovery from injectable treatments or laser treatment is typically quick and straightforward. Side effects such as redness, swelling, or mild tenderness may occur but resolve within a few days.
For Botox:
• Avoid touching the area for 24 hours
• Refrain from exercise or heat exposure
For fillers:
• Mild bruising or puffiness is possible
• Results develop over one to two weeks
For skin treatments:
• Follow sun protection advice
• Moisturise regularly and avoid harsh products during healing
Dr Ahmed provides full aftercare guidance based on your treatment type and is always available to review your progress.
Book a Consultation
Laughter lines are a normal part of life, but that does not mean you have to accept deeper creases if they are affecting your confidence. With the right combination of professional treatments, skin support, and personalised care, Dr Ahmed can help soften these lines while maintaining your unique expression.
If you would like to explore subtle, effective options for facial rejuvenation, book a consultation at The Aesthetics Doctor today.
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