Crow's feet are the small lines and wrinkles that fan out from the outer corners of your eyes. They get their name because the pattern looks like the foot of a crow. These lines form over time from repeated facial expressions like smiling, laughing, and squinting. As you age, your skin naturally loses collagen and elastin, the two proteins that keep skin firm and bouncy. The thin, delicate skin around your eyes shows these changes first. Sun exposure, lifestyle habits, and genetics all play a role in how early and how deeply crow's feet appear. The good news is there are many ways to help prevent, reduce, and treat them.
What are “crow’s feet”?
Crow’s feet are the thin lines that you begin to see form around your eyes, primarily the outer corners. You may be curious as to why they are called crow’s feet. When these fine lines form, they often appear as a crow’s foot on the outer corner of your eyes, hence “crow’s feet”.
According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, there are two types of crow's feet to look for: dynamic lines and static facial lines.
- Dynamic lines are associated with your underlying muscles. Therefore, every smile, frown, or facial expression you make contributes to your dynamic lines, as they are outlined around those expressions. This is the most common type of crow’s feet wrinkles because typically every person has them.
- Static facial lines are present all the time. This type of crow’s feet wrinkles develop from sun damage, squinting, or frowning for more extended periods.
One thing to note about these two is dynamic lines essentially ‘disappear’ after you stop making the facial expression, but static lines are long-lasting.
What causes crow’s feet
Before learning how to get rid of crow’s feet, we first need to understand what causes wrinkles. By getting to the bottom of crow’s feet causes, you’ll be best equipped to prevent their formation.
“Laugh lines”, “expression lines”, or “character lines” are caused, in part, by our habitual facial expressions.
But how do temporary muscle contractions when smiling or squinting result in permanent fine lines? Let’s take a look at the science behind wrinkle formation to understand.
Your skin is composed of three layers:
- Outermost epidermis
- Inner dermis
- Subcutis beneath the skin
When we refer to “wrinkles”, we’re talking about the creases or depressions seen on the epidermis, but the real action goes on below the surface.
The dermis is the main layer of skin that causes crow’s feet and wrinkles; it’s a complex combination of blood vessels, hair follicles, and sebaceous (oil) glands. More importantly, this layer is where you’ll find collagen and elastin—two essential proteins for preventing crow’s feet.
- Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies, made up of various amino acids. Most importantly, it provides the skin cells’ strength and volume.
- Elastin is another protein found within the dermis and connective tissue. It has an elastic property which enables skin cells to resume their shape and ‘snap back’ after being stretched, contracted, poked, or pinched.
The subcutis (or bottom layer of skin) hosts sweat glands, loose connective tissue, and most importantly, fat. When this fatty layer is reduced, it can cause crow’s feet, wrinkling, and overall sagging.
As we age, the biological changes within our skin cells are what cause crow’s feet and other wrinkled skin across our body. The age-related changes that contribute to crow's feet include:
Protein breakdown
Over time, our body loses its ability to produce and break down certain proteins, causing their presence to gradually shrink. Collagen makes up roughly 75% of the skin's dry weight, but as this ratio decreases, our skin loses its support and suppleness. Collagen fibers supply the scaffolding to hold skin up, and an enzyme called collagenase (part of a larger group of Matrix MetalloProteinases or MMP enzymes) assists by breaking down old or damaged collagen so new proteins can take its place.
While we’re young, collagen breaks down at the same rate it’s produced, but as we age, production slows while degradation increases. In fact, starting in early adulthood, collagen production is commonly estimated to decline about 1% per year. The net result is less new collagen and decreased existing collagen.
Similar to collagen, elastin production is also influenced by time and elements. With age, elastin doesn’t retract as much once stretched. Like an old rubber band, it remains lax instead of snapping back, causing crow’s feet to droop along the outer eye area. Learn how you can combat this and more with these additional tips to look younger.
Less fat
Natural aging decreases the fat within the subcutis. When fat is lost on the face, it reduces facial volume, meaning there’s less surface ratio for the skin to cover. We still have the same amount of skin, however, which causes the tissue to drape over itself and create folds or wrinkles.
Sebum reduction
The older we get, the slower our sebaceous glands produce sebum. Sebum is the sticky, secreted oil intended to form a protective barrier around the skin by retaining moisture and shielding against free radicals. Moisture is a key element to preventing crow’s feet; when skin is dry and brittle, it’s more prone to structural manipulation.
Fewer GAGs
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are water-binding sugar molecules within the dermis. They’re responsible for giving skin its plumpness by filling the space between collagen and elastin fibers, providing support and keeping them plump and upright.
With contextual knowledge as to how wrinkles form, you’ll be savvier regarding how to remove crow’s feet and prevent them from occurring in the first place. Some of the aging processes are inevitable, while others can be exacerbated by lifestyle choices and the environment. Let’s take a look at how to prevent crow’s feet by applying knowledge of wrinkle formation.
Can you prevent crow's feet?
While crow's feet are a natural part of life's journey, you can take steps to delay their appearance and minimize their depth. Prevention focuses on protecting your skin, supporting its structure, and being mindful of habits that accelerate aging.
Prioritize daily sun protection
Sun protection is your most powerful preventive tool. UV rays penetrate deep into your skin, breaking down collagen and elastin, the very proteins that keep skin smooth and firm.
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every single day, even when it's cloudy or you're staying indoors. UVA rays, the ones most tied to aging, pass through window glass, and a large share of UV reaches you on cloudy days. For the delicate eye area, choose a mineral formula tested for use around the eyes.
“The skin around the eyes is some of the thinnest on the face, and it’s also where people most often skip sunscreen because they’re worried about stinging. That’s why I recommend a mineral formula made for the eye area, plus good sunglasses to cut down on squinting.” — Alex Lang, Director of Global Education
Sun exposure is a leading cause of visible skin aging. In one randomized trial, adults who used sunscreen daily showed no detectable increase in skin aging over 4.5 years. Look for broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher with a PA++++ UVA rating, and reapply every two hours when you’re outdoors. Mineral actives (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) are generally well tolerated by sensitive skin, and makeup alone isn’t enough protection, which is why Colorescience offers mineral sunscreens that double as makeup.
Wear protective sunglasses. Large, wraparound styles offer the best coverage, shielding the eye area from UV rays while reducing squinting. Look for sunglasses labeled with 100% UV protection or UV400.
Nourish your skin from within
What you put into your body directly affects what shows on your skin.
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Embrace healthy fats. Unsaturated fats help keep your facial skin soft and voluminous. Include omega-3-rich foods like salmon and other cold-water fish, avocados, nuts, seeds, and extra virgin olive oil in your regular diet.
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Watch your sugar intake. Excess sugar in your bloodstream binds to collagen through a process called glycation, making the protein stiff and dysfunctional. High sugar levels also trigger inflammation, which releases enzymes that break down collagen and elastin. Limiting sugar helps preserve your skin's structural proteins.
- Stay hydrated. Proper hydration keeps your skin plump and helps maintain its protective barrier. Aim for adequate water intake throughout the day.
Small studies suggest cocoa rich in the antioxidants catechin and epicatechin may benefit skin. They may support blood flow to the skin and hydration, though more research is needed.
Be gentle with your eye area
The thin, delicate skin around your eyes deserves extra care. Avoid over-washing your face with harsh tap water, especially hot water, which strips away natural oils and protective lipids. When you do cleanse, use a gentle, cold-water rinse and immediately follow with a hydrating moisturizer. Whether you're tired, removing makeup, or applying products, resist the urge to rub or tug at this delicate area; instead, use gentle patting motions.
Address vision problems promptly to protect your eye area. If you find yourself squinting to read or see clearly, get your eyes checked. Reading glasses or an updated prescription can significantly reduce squinting and the muscle contractions that deepen crow's feet over time.
Make lifestyle choices that support skin health
- Quit smoking. Tobacco smoke accelerates premature aging dramatically and introduces free radicals that linger in your system for days. If you smoke, quitting is one of the most impactful steps you can take for your skin (and overall health).
- Limit screen time when possible. The sun is by far the biggest source of visible (blue) light; screens emit far less, and research on their effects on skin is still emerging. Regular screen breaks help mainly by reducing eye strain and squinting, and night mode may help protect your sleep. For visible-light protection from the sun, choose a tinted mineral sunscreen with iron oxides.
- Get quality sleep. During sleep, your skin repairs itself and produces new collagen. Consistent, restful sleep supports this regenerative process.
- Exercise regularly. Physical activity increases blood flow to your skin, delivering oxygen and nutrients that support skin health and vitality.
Start a targeted skincare routine early
Prevention becomes even more effective when you start caring for the eye area before crow's feet become prominent. A consistent routine that includes gentle cleansing, hydrating products, and sun protection creates the foundation for healthier, more resilient skin over time.
Remember, prevention isn't about eliminating all signs of aging, it's about supporting your skin's health so you can age gracefully and on your own terms.
How to fix crow’s feet
If your character lines have already developed, not to worry. Crow’s feet are usually finer and shallower than the deeper grooves found elsewhere on the face, so they often respond well to treatment. A crow’s feet treatment regimen attacks the fine lines found in the skin around your eyes, which are generally shallow and easy to reach.
They do deepen with age, however, so it’s best to begin your crow’s feet treatment as soon as possible. There are several different treatment options you can use to soften crow’s feet, from natural home remedies, to over-the-counter solutions like firming eye creams, to professional cosmetic procedures.
At-home treatments for crow’s feet
If natural ingredients and home remedies aren’t cutting it, you can also learn how to get rid of crow’s feet using stronger, store-bought products on their own or alongside professional treatments. Consider adding these skincare solutions to your routine:
Eye creams with vitamins and minerals
You might be surprised to find that there are incredibly effective eye creams for crow’s feet which are packed with vitamins and minerals. Look for labels that contain:
- Peptides: Short chains of amino acids called peptides are often found within eye creams to treat crow’s feet for their ability to signal collagen production and assist with essential cellular activities.
- Caffeine: A naturally occurring stimulant that’s found in coffee beans, yerba mate leaves, and more. Caffeine can help you look awake, boost circulation, and reduce puffiness while tightening and brightening the skin.
- Hyaluronic acid: This naturally occurring chemical is often used in skincare because it helps replenish moisture.
- Squalane: Derived from squalene which is a lipid produced by the body, squalane is a hydrating ingredient that is anti-aging and promotes skin barrier health.
- Sea buckthorn fruit oil: An oil found in seeds of the sea buckthorn plant, sea buckthorn fruit oil is a powerful botanical humectant. Because of its high levels of vitamins and minerals, it can improve skin hydration and elasticity, while also soothing the skin.
- Retinoids: Retinol and other vitamin A derivatives are among the best-studied ingredients for fine lines. Because the eye area is sensitive, start with a gentle, low-strength formula made for the eyes two to three nights a week, build up slowly, and always pair it with daily SPF. Skip retinoids if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, and check with your dermatologist if irritation persists.
Colorescience eye cream recommendations
Total Eye® Firm & Repair Cream
The Total Eye® Firm & Repair Cream is our award-winning eye treatment designed to address multiple concerns around the notoriously delicate eye area. This cream contains SYN-EYE®, a potent blend of peptides and vitamins that target various eye-related issues, including:
- Puffiness
- Dark circles
- Fine lines and wrinkles, like crow’s feet
The peptides in this cream work to stimulate collagen production, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of crow's feet. Meanwhile, ingredients like sea buckthorn oil, meadowfoam seed oil, and squalane provide nourishment and antioxidant protection to the sensitive eye area, helping to prevent further damage and promote overall skin health.
Total Eye® 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF 35
Total Eye® 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF 35 is our tinted multitasking eye serum. It corrects imperfections by instantly brightening the under eyes, addresses underlying skin concerns by providing hydration and improving appearance of under eyes over time, and protects under eyes from UV rays with SPF 35.
This formula helps reduce the appearance of crow’s feet in the short term and long term and helps prevent further development of crow’s feet that may be exacerbated by sun exposure.
This formula also contains SYN-EYE® to provide the peptides and vitamins that help to deeply nourish the skin. Available in 4 different shades, it’s best applied after skincare and under makeup, as it contains makeup priming ingredients.
Total Eye® Concentrate Serum
Total Eye® Concentrate Serum is a lightweight day-and-night eye serum with a cooling rollerball applicator for immediate depuffing. It’s formulated with peptides to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and under-eye bags, plus NS Phytomoist for next-level hydration. It’s ophthalmologist tested and safe for use around the eyes, including for contact lens wearers and sensitive eyes.
Apply it first, then layer Total Eye® Firm & Repair Cream or Total Eye® 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF 35 on top.
Plumping products
To get rid of crow’s feet, you should consider products which can plump up your skin without invasive injections or fillers. The best way to do this is to search for water-binding ingredients, known as humectants, which supply your skin the hydrating boost it needs.
Humectants act like sponges which absorb water and mimic the effect of GAGs within the dermal fluid, keeping them plump and upright. Reduce the appearance of crow’s feet and smooth out wrinkles with moisturizing, humectant ingredients such as:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Glycerin
- Sorbitol
- Propylene or Butylene glycol
Colorescience recommendation: Pep Up® Collagen Boost Face & Neck Serum
This potent anti-aging serum has no shortage of humectants, as it contains:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Glycerin
- Sorbitol
- Butylene glycol
Use Pep Up® on the face and neck, and pair it with a Total Eye® treatment for the eye area. The combination of peptides, vitamins, and hydrating compounds works together to:
- Diminish the appearance of wrinkles
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Improve skin elasticity
It also features a unique blend of marine extracts and plant-derived ingredients that further support skin renewal and help protect against environmental stressors. By addressing multiple causes of skin aging, you can count on this powerful formula to assist in diminishing the appearance of fine lines on the face and neck and help promote a more youthful, radiant complexion.
Professional treatments for crow’s feet
When crow’s feet are deeper or visible at rest, in-office treatments can do things topicals can’t. A board-certified dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or experienced licensed injector can help you choose the right option, and many people combine more than one.
Neuromodulators (Botox® Cosmetic and similar)
Neuromodulators such as Botox® Cosmetic temporarily relax the orbicularis oculi, the muscle that creases the skin when you smile or squint. Botox Cosmetic has been FDA-approved for moderate-to-severe crow’s feet since 2013.
What to expect
Treatment takes only a few minutes, with tiny injections at the outer corner of each eye. Results begin to show within a few days, peak at around two weeks, and typically last about three to four months. Mild redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection sites is common and usually fades quickly.
Choosing an injector
Look for a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon, or a licensed injector working under their supervision, with specific experience treating the eye area. Ask what the follow-up plan is and how they keep results looking natural.
Laser resurfacing
Another remedy you may want to consider for crow’s feet wrinkles is laser resurfacing. Downtime ranges from a few days (non-ablative) to one to two weeks (ablative). This process specifically targets your crow’s feet area by intensely heating the skin to force your body to produce collagen, leaving you with a smoother appearance. While many people are fans of laser resurfacing, it might not be the right treatment solution for everyone. Before making a decision, you may want to consider researching the process. Speaking with your dermatologist is also usually a good idea, so they can recommend the best course of action based on your skin and your concerns.
Microneedling, radiofrequency, and chemical peels
Other in-office options can improve skin texture and firmness around the eyes. Microneedling creates tiny, controlled channels in the skin to stimulate collagen, often with little downtime. Radiofrequency treatments use heat to help tighten and firm the skin, and some devices combine the two. Light to medium chemical peels can smooth fine lines and even tone. Your provider can recommend the best fit for your skin type, the depth of your lines, and how much downtime you can manage.
Topical care and professional treatments work together
When eye creams and serums don’t achieve the desired success for crow’s feet treatment, many consider professional treatment. Neuromodulators such as Botox Cosmetic are FDA-approved to temporarily soften moderate-to-severe crow's feet, typically for about three to four months. A daily eye treatment and mineral SPF support the skin itself between appointments. Total Eye® 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF 35 helps reduce the appearance of fine lines while protecting the eye area.
“I’ve never seen at-home care and in-office treatment as competitors. A neuromodulator relaxes the muscle that creases the skin, while a daily eye treatment and mineral SPF take care of the skin itself. Clients who did both tended to look fresher longer.” — Alex Lang, Director of Global Education
With powerful clinical ingredients, this product can deliver immediate results and long-term improvement. It helps soften the look of fine lines and also helps protect your delicate complexion with broad-spectrum SPF.
There are various Colorescience eye creams to choose from, including firming, hydrating, and tinted products. Every Total Eye® formula is ophthalmologist tested, safe for use around the eyes, and designed to layer together. Each eye cream is intended to hydrate and moisturize the most sensitive area around your eyes.
Learn more about the various eye cream formulas we offer to see which is right for your needs.
A skincare regimen for addressing crow’s feet
If you want to address crow's feet but don’t know how or when to use certain products to get the best results, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a daily routine you can try that combines specialized eye treatments, serums, and broad-spectrum sunscreen to help you achieve smoother, more youthful skin.
- Cleanse your face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser.
- Roll Total Eye® Concentrate Serum along the upper and lower eye contours, then gently pat it in.
- Apply Total Eye® Firm & Repair Cream under the eyes, gently patting it in.
- Apply Pep Up® Collagen Boost Face & Neck Serum to the face and neck, focusing on areas with fine lines.
- Hydrate your face with a suitable moisturizer for your skin type.
- In the morning, apply Total Eye® 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF 35 around the eyes and a mineral sunscreen such as Sunforgettable® Total Protection® Face Shield Flex SPF 50 to the rest of the face. .
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially when outdoors. For touch-ups throughout the day, Sunforgettable® Total Protection® Brush-On Shield SPF 50 is easy to apply on the go with its built-in brush.
Prefer a ready-made routine? The Esthetician Curated for Aging regimen was put together under the direction of Alex Lang and pairs peptide-powered treatments, including Pep Up® Collagen Boost Face & Neck Serum, to target fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging.
Which crow’s feet treatment is right for me?
Selecting the most appropriate treatment for crow's feet can depend on a few factors:
- Severity of crow's feet: Mild to moderate cases often respond well to at-home skincare solutions like the Total Eye® Firm & Repair Cream and Total Eye® Concentrate Serum. Deeper lines, or lines visible at rest, often respond best to professional treatments such as neuromodulators or laser resurfacing, ideally paired with daily eye care and SPF.
- Skin type and sensitivity: Those with sensitive skin may need to start with gentler formulations or patch test new products.
- Age and skin condition: Younger people may benefit more from preventative measures, while more mature skin might respond better to more intensive treatments.
- Lifestyle factors: Things like sun exposure, diet, and smoking can influence the effectiveness of treatments and the progression of crow's feet.
- Budget and time commitment: Some treatments require more frequent application or higher financial investment than others.
- Personal preferences: Some people may prefer non-invasive topical treatments, while others might be open to more in-depth procedures.
If you can, it’s always advised to consult with a dermatologist to discuss your specific concerns and goals for your skin. A professional can help properly assess the condition of your skin, consider your medical history, and recommend a personalized treatment plan that could include a combination of at-home treatments and in-office procedures for the best results.
How to conceal crow’s feet
Here’s the deal: you have learned a lot about crow’s feet, but now it’s time to learn one more trick you’ll want to have in your arsenal: how to conceal them. Concealing crow’s feet helps make them less noticeable and can boost your confidence.
As with any kind of wrinkle, you’ll want to find a formula that isn’t going to set into the lines. To get you started on the right track, try pairing our Total Eye® 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy, Tint du Soleil™ Whipped Mineral Foundation SPF 30, and Even Up® Clinical Pigment Perfector® SPF 50 together.
With proper skin care and safe ingredients, you’ll be set to take on crow’s feet. To get started, you’ll need a high-quality eye cream, such as the ones mentioned above, and a solid primer or serum. With the help of Colorescience you have various eye creams to pick from and an excellent multi-correction serum to help you take on your crow’s feet concerns.
Why sun protection matters most for the eye area
The skin around your eyes is much thinner than the skin on the rest of your face. That makes it more vulnerable to UV damage, blue light, pollution, and infrared radiation, all of which can speed up collagen breakdown and deepen crow's feet over time.
This is why most skin health professionals recommend choosing a sunscreen that goes beyond just SPF. You may want to consider a multi-functional mineral sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection that also defends against blue light, infrared radiation, and pollution.
Colorescience Face Shield products are formulated with EnviroScreen® Technology, which provides 5-point environmental protection against UVA/UVB, blue light (HEV), infrared radiation, and pollution. They also contain niacinamide, an ingredient known to help strengthen the skin barrier. For a tinted option, Face Shield Flex SPF 50 features iron oxides that help block blue light while providing tone-adapting coverage. Face Shield products haven’t been tested for use around the eye area, so use them on the rest of your face and choose Total Eye® 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF 35 for the eye area itself.
When paired with a targeted eye treatment and a peptide-rich serum like Pep Up® Collagen Boost Face & Neck Serum, you're building a regimen that not only helps address crow's feet but also helps protect against the environmental stressors that can make them worse.
Combat crow’s feet & restore your confidence
Don’t let fine lines make you look older than you feel; use these tips and learn how to get rid of crow’s feet for a radiant complexion. Crow’s feet should never define you, but if you want to find ways to overcome them so you can feel confident and comfortable in your skin, look no further. Colorescience skin treatments and sunscreen are formulated with the health of your skin in mind.
Crow's feet FAQs
Can you completely prevent crow's feet?
While you can't entirely prevent crow's feet, they're a natural part of aging and facial expression, you can significantly delay their appearance and minimize their depth. Consistent sun protection, proper hydration, quality eye care products, and a skin-healthy lifestyle can keep the eye area looking smoother for longer.
At what age do crow's feet typically appear?
Most people first notice crow's feet between ages 25 and 30, though this varies based on genetics, sun exposure, and lifestyle factors. Initially, these lines may only appear when you smile or squint (dynamic lines). Over time, they may become visible even when your face is at rest (static lines).
How long does it take to see results from eye creams?
Topical treatments typically require consistent use for 8-12 weeks before visible improvement appears. Products with retinoids may show results within 12-24 weeks. Immediate plumping effects from hyaluronic acid can be visible within hours, though these are temporary. Patience and consistency are essential for lasting results.
Are crow's feet only caused by aging?
No. While aging is a primary factor, crow's feet also develop from repeated facial expressions (smiling, squinting), sun damage, smoking, dehydration, and loss of collagen and elastin. Even younger people can develop crow's feet from lifestyle factors like excessive sun exposure without protection.
How often should I reapply sunscreen around my eyes?
Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours when you're outdoors or exposed to sunlight, including around the eye area. For convenient touch-ups throughout the day, consider a brush-on mineral sunscreen that can be applied over makeup without disrupting your look.
Can facial exercises reduce crow's feet?
Facial exercises are controversial. While some claim they tone facial muscles, the repeated contractions that exercises require can actually deepen expression lines like crow's feet. Gentle facial massage may feel relaxing, but avoid exercises that repeatedly contract the orbicularis oculi muscle around your eyes.
How is treating crow's feet different from treating other wrinkles?
The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than other facial areas, with less fatty tissue for support. This makes the eye area more prone to showing early signs of aging, but also means treatments must be gentler. Products and procedures designed specifically for the eye area take this sensitivity into account.
Should I treat crow's feet alone or address multiple facial areas?
Research and clinical experience suggest that treating multiple upper facial areas together (like crow's feet, forehead lines, and glabellar lines) creates more balanced, natural-looking results. When only one area is treated, it can create an imbalanced appearance. Discuss a comprehensive approach with your skincare professional.
Does Botox work for crow’s feet, and how long does it last?
Yes. Botox® Cosmetic is FDA-approved to temporarily improve the look of moderate-to-severe crow’s feet in adults. Results usually appear within a few days, peak at about two weeks, and last roughly three to four months, after which treatment can be repeated. Pairing it with a daily eye treatment and mineral SPF helps care for the skin itself between appointments.
Last updated: October 22, 2026