Nasolabial folds can sometimes become noticeable even in one’s 20s. However, rather than being explained by a specific ingredient or a single cause, nasolabial folds can appear more prominent when changes in skin elasticity and lifestyle/environmental factors overlap on top of the structural factors of the face (bone structure, fat layers, supporting structures).[24] Therefore, it is more important to look at the conditions under which nasolabial folds form and deepen, rather than the age itself.

1. Intrinsic Aging vs. Extrinsic Aging

Skin aging is broadly divided into two categories.[5]

Extrinsic aging can account for a significant proportion of overall skin aging.[2] In other words, how we manage the environmental factors we encounter in daily life can influence the rate of skin aging.

2. 5 Environmental Stressors That Accelerate Skin Aging

The exposome refers to all environmental factors in which the body is exposed over a lifetime.[1] In dermatological science, the following factors are particularly recognized as key skin exposome elements that can influence skin aging.

UV Rays

UV rays are a representative external factor that influences skin aging. UVA can penetrate deep into the skin and can affect collagen and elastin in the dermis, while UVB can directly irritate the epidermis. The aging that can result from this is called ‘Photoaging,’ and it is associated with wrinkles, pigmentation, and loss of elasticity.[6]

Fine Dust (PM2.5)

Fine dust particles are much smaller than pores and can penetrate the skin. Research shows that PM2.5 (Particulate Matter 2.5μm or smaller) can affect the expression of filaggrin, a key protein of the skin barrier, thereby weakening skin barrier function.[7] Additionally, PM2.5 can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), inducing oxidative stress.[8]

Blue Light

Blue light (400–500 nm wavelength within visible light) emitted from smartphones, computers, and LED lighting can penetrate the skin and can induce oxidative stress. Research indicates that blue light can generate free radicals in the skin’s mitochondria, which can influence skin aging in a manner similar to UVA.[9] It is a skin aging factor receiving growing attention among modern people who use digital devices for extended periods.[10]

Temperature Changes and Heat

Rapid temperature fluctuations and high-temperature environments can dilate skin blood vessels and can affect the moisture balance of the skin barrier. Heat exposure under strong summer sunlight can have a combined effect on skin aging along with UV rays.[1]

Stress

Psychological stress can increase the secretion of cortisol (the stress hormone) and can affect skin condition. Research suggests that stress hormones may influence skin barrier function and the skin’s natural recovery ability.[11]

3. Compromised Skin Barrier Symptoms Checklist

The skin barrier is the first line of defense that protects the skin from external irritants and prevents internal moisture loss. Continuous exposure to the exposome can weaken this barrier, which may lead to various symptoms

• Common Symptoms of a Weakened Skin Barrier

These symptoms are easy to dismiss as simply "my skin has become sensitive," but they may actually be signals that the skin barrier is weakening.

Amorepacific has developed various technologies based on ingredients found in nature that may help with skin protection and slowing the rate of aging. Each technology is designed to enable the skin to cope with various environmental stressors encountered in daily life.

1. Skin Barrier Strengthening Technology

The skin barrier plays an important role in protecting the skin from external irritants and maintaining internal moisture. A healthy skin barrier is the foundation for maintaining skin condition.

DermaOn® Technology
Amorepacific’s DermaOn® technology is designed to enable the skin to supplement its barrier function by utilizing lipid components with a structure similar to ceramide, a key component of the skin barrier. It may help protect the skin barrier weakened by external stimuli and reduce moisture loss.[14]

pH 4.5 Environment Maintenance Technology
Healthy skin maintains a slightly acidic environment (pH 4.5–5.5).[15] Amorepacific has developed technology to help maintain the skin’s slightly acidic environment, supporting the normal function of the skin’s natural defense mechanisms.

Microbiome Balance Technology
The scalp, like the skin, is home to various microorganisms, and their balance plays an important role in scalp health. As a result of 30 years of joint research on hair, skin, and microorganisms, Amorepacific has confirmed that Lactobacillus ferment lysate discovered in Jeju green tea can help strengthen the scalp barrier. Furthermore, the company continues research on ingredients that help maintain the natural balance of the scalp by applying this component to microbiome (microbial ecosystem) technology.

2. Technologies That Protect the Skin from Environmental Stress

Modern skin is exposed to various environmental stressors, including UV rays, heat, blue light, and fine dust. Amorepacific has developed technologies that may help protect the skin from these environmental factors.

Heat Protection Technology
Under strong summer sunlight, not only UV rays but also heat (infrared radiation) can affect the skin. Amorepacific is researching heat protection technology that may help reduce increases in skin surface temperature.[17]

UV Protection Technology
UV rays are a major cause of photoaging, and it is important to protect the skin from both UVA and UVB.[6] Amorepacific is researching broad-spectrum UV protection technology that specifically considers long UVA, which can penetrate deep into the skin. Furthermore, the company is continuously improving UV protection solutions by developing low-irritant suncare technology (barrier protection, inorganic filters, and easy-wash formulas) to reduce skin burden so that it can be used comfortably for various skin types.

Blue Light Protection Technology
Blue light (380–500 nm) emitted from digital devices and artificial lighting requires management as it can be linked to skin changes such as pigmentation. Amorepacific has identified blue light wavelengths that can affect the skin and has developed clinical evaluation methods and devices to assess blocking efficacy, applying the concepts of blue light blocking and damage relief to various products.[26]

3. Skin Circulation Promoting Technology: LymphanaxTM

For skin health, not only nutrient supply but also smooth removal of waste products is important. Amorepacific’s LymphanaxTM technology has been developed to promote skin circulation and to potentially help maintain skin condition.[18] When skin circulation functions efficiently, moisture and nutrients can be better delivered to the skin, and it may help improve the skin tone. LymphanaxTM technology was developed based on this skin circulation mechanism.

View research results confirming the early anti-aging efficacy of LymphanaxTM

4. Skin Protection Through Sleep and Wellness

The skin undergoes a recovery and restoration process during sleep. Sleep quality is closely related to skin condition, and quality sleep plays an important role in maintaining skin health.[19]

Nighttime Skin Protection Technology (SLEEPTOXTM)
Amorepacific’s SLEEPTOXTM technology is designed to potentially help protect the skin from external stimuli during sleep and to support skin condition recovery.[12]

Sleep-Functional Ingredient Research
Improving sleep quality itself can also benefit skin health. Amorepacific is researching functional ingredients such as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) that may help improve sleep quality.[20]

Verification of MFDS certification for the individually recognized functional ingredient for sleep quality improvement.