Crow's feet form from repeated facial movement and loss of collagen, worsened by UV exposure and smoking. Prevent with daily broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, and healthy habits. Topical options such as retinoids, AHAs, and vitamin C can modestly improve fine lines; in-office treatments (botulinum toxin, fillers, lasers) offer stronger, temporary results. Consult a dermatologist to match treatments to your goals.

What are crow's feet?

Crow's feet are the fine lines and wrinkles that radiate from the outer corners of the eyes. They form where the skin folds with repeated facial expressions - smiling, squinting and laughing - and become more visible as skin loses collagen, elastin and moisture.

Common causes

  • Repeated muscle movement around the eyes
  • Ultraviolet (UV) exposure that breaks down collagen and pigment
  • Smoking, which accelerates skin aging
  • Thinning dermal tissue and reduced oil production with age
  • Genetics and facial anatomy

Over-the-counter and topical options

Topical products can improve texture and reduce fine lines, though results are typically modest.

  • Retinoids: Prescription tretinoin and over-the-counter retinol stimulate cell turnover and collagen. Prescription-strength retinoids are generally more effective but can cause irritation.
  • Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs): Glycolic acid and other AHAs exfoliate and can smooth fine lines when used regularly.
  • Topical vitamin C: As an antioxidant, vitamin C can support collagen production and brighten skin when formulated at stable concentrations.
  • Moisturizers: Good hydration plumps the skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines temporarily.
  • Home remedies: Egg white can provide a short-term tightening effect but has no lasting anti-aging benefit.
Combine these actives cautiously (for example, vitamin C and retinoids are often used at different times of day) and introduce one product at a time to monitor tolerance.

Sun protection and lifestyle measures

Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen (dermatologists generally recommend SPF 30 or higher) is the single most important preventive step. Wear UV-blocking sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to reduce squinting and direct exposure. Stopping smoking and avoiding chronic squinting (for example, by using sunglasses) also slow progression.

In-office procedures

If topical care is insufficient, clinic treatments can produce more noticeable improvement:

  • Botulinum toxin injections temporarily relax the orbicularis oculi muscle to soften dynamic crow's feet.
  • Hyaluronic acid fillers can restore subtle volume loss that contributes to static lines.
  • Energy-based devices (fractional lasers), chemical peels and microneedling stimulate collagen remodeling and improve skin texture.
All procedures carry risks. Discuss options, expected results and downtime with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

Practical routine

A practical approach: daily SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen, antioxidant serum in the morning (like vitamin C), a retinoid at night if tolerated, regular moisturizing, and protective eyewear outdoors. See a dermatologist for personalized recommendations and to discuss in-office treatments if you want faster or more dramatic changes.

FAQs about Crows Feet

Are crow's feet a sign of aging?
They are a normal sign of skin aging and repeated facial expressions. Genetics and sun exposure influence when and how pronounced they become.
Can creams get rid of crow's feet?
Topical products with retinoids, AHAs (like glycolic acid), and vitamin C can improve fine lines modestly over time, but they rarely erase deeper wrinkles. Moisturizers temporarily reduce their appearance.
Does sunscreen help prevent crow's feet?
Yes. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), plus UV-blocking sunglasses and a hat, reduces the UV damage that accelerates crow's feet.
Are Botox and fillers effective?
Yes. Botulinum toxin relaxes the muscles that cause dynamic lines; hyaluronic acid fillers can soften static lines by restoring volume. Both are temporary and should be performed by qualified clinicians.
Do home remedies like egg white work?
Egg white can create a short-lived tightening effect on the skin but has no proven long-term anti-aging benefit.

News about Crows Feet

10 Products That Actually Help Fade Crow’s Feet - NewBeauty [Visit Site | Read More]

Crow's Feet Podcast: Life As We Age - vocal.media [Visit Site | Read More]

This Is the Eye Cream I Swear By to Soften My Wrinkles - glamour.com [Visit Site | Read More]

The best eye creams for reducing wrinkles and fine lines, tested by over 1,000 women - Good Housekeeping [Visit Site | Read More]

Crow’s Feet Botox Treatments May Temporarily Worsen Dry Eye - Optometry Advisor [Visit Site | Read More]

What are Crow's Feet? Derms Weigh in on the Cause and Treatment - TODAY.com [Visit Site | Read More]

The guide to anti-ageing your eyes, from crows feet to baggy lids - Daily Mail [Visit Site | Read More]