Bunny lines
Bunny lines are short diagonal or transverse creases on the upper sides of the nose. They usually appear during smiling, squinting or wrinkling the nose and may be barely visible when the face is relaxed.
What you may notice
- Diagonal lines beside the nasal bridge
- Creases that appear with smiling or squinting
- A stronger pattern on one side
- Lines that become visible at rest over time
Why it can happen
Contraction of nasal muscles, particularly the nasalis, folds the skin. Individual expression patterns, skin thickness, sun exposure and ageing influence how visible the lines become. They may also seem more prominent when nearby facial muscles have been treated and expression shifts.
What may help
Sun protection supports skin quality. Small, carefully placed doses of muscle-relaxing injection can reduce dynamic lines, while resurfacing may address etched surface texture. The area is close to muscles controlling the upper lip, so inaccurate or excessive treatment can affect the smile.
When to consult
A qualified practitioner should assess expression before treatment. Sudden facial asymmetry, weakness, pain or swelling is not a routine bunny-line concern and needs medical review.
Evidence and sources
- DermNet. Facial lines and wrinkles [Internet]. Auckland: DermNet New Zealand Trust; 2004 [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/facial-lines-and-wrinkles (new tab)
- DermNet. Ageing skin [Internet]. Auckland: DermNet New Zealand Trust; 2018 [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/ageing-skin (new tab)
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Skin rejuvenation and resurfacing [Internet]. Arlington Heights (IL): American Society of Plastic Surgeons; [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/skin-rejuvenation-and-resurfacing (new tab)
- US Food and Drug Administration. Wrinkle treatments and other anti-aging products [Internet]. Silver Spring (MD): FDA; 2024 [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/wrinkle-treatments-and-other-anti-aging-products (new tab)