How To Tackle Crow’s Feet

What Causes These Little Lines Around The Eyes?

Typically, the eye area is the first part of the face to show signs of ageing because the skin around the eyes is so very thin. It’s more susceptible to damage from UV rays and repeated expressions like frowning, blinking and even smiling. Crow’s feet are also caused by a loss of skin elasticity and collagen – genetics do play a part. It’s important to remember that all of us are likely to suffer with some form of wrinkle. All facial movements – happy or sad – will eventually cause some lines. 

What Can We Do To Prevent Them?

Always wear sunscreen and protect your eyes from the sun. I also recommend large sunglasses so you avoid over-squinting, which is one of the top expressions for causing wrinkles. It’s also key to use anti-ageing products that are specifically designed for the eye area. Because the skin around the eye is more sensitive, general face products may irritate it. 

Are There Any Treatments Available To Tackle Crow’s Feet?

Aside from expert treatments, the best way to minimise crow’s feet is through using retinol to target wrinkles. It will smooth wrinkles and lines while also giving the skin moisture and extra elasticity. Even better, look for formulas that combine retinol with ferulic acid, which reduces irritation, making it gentle and suitable for the entire eye area (including your lids). Vitamin C is ideal for increasing collagen production and helping protect the area from free radicals. While no product will get rid of these lines altogether, they can definitely help reduce the appearance.

As for treatments done by a professional, 3-D Firming Laser penetrates the skin deeply, stimulating collagen and fighting fine lines and wrinkles with a cocktail of lasers. It’s one of the best ways to treat wrinkles because it’s effective on all skin types and tones, and is gentle enough to be used around the eye area. The lasers use radiofrequency energy to generate deep dermal heating to promote collagen growth and healthy skin cell production. 

Is Laser The Best Way To Minimise Crow’s Feet?

Personally, I think it’s the most effective, but you can also get botox, fillers, micro needling and facial acupuncture. In the beginning, crow’s feet were always treated with botox to freeze the entire area, but this doesn’t address the lack of collagen and you can expect occasional puffiness after treatment. As for micro needling, this works to create controlled skin injury, stimulating fibroblasts and other collagen-producing cells to increase production. Facial acupuncture is a gentler and more accessible alternative to micro needling. It remodels the skin, promoting more elastin production for a firmer, resilient surface around the eyes. 

If You’re Having Treatment, Is There Anything To Consider First?

None of the treatments for crow’s feet require lots of downtime. At most there may be minimal bruising and redness, but this should pass within a few days. With laser, you can expect to feel a heated sensation for about 45 minutes post-procedure. You shouldn’t have any redness though and, even if there is a little, it’s nothing to be alarmed by. The only thing to really consider is your own diary. For example, you’ll want to avoid direct sunlight and wear lots of SPF post-treatment, so don’t book in for a session pre-holiday. 
 

Here are five SL-approved places to visit for a treatment that will target crow’s feet...

1. Micro needling treatments, SknClinics.co.uk, 2 Harley Street, London

2. Facial acupuncture treatments, Harrods.com, Harrods Wellness Clinic with Dr Tsagaris, 87-135 Brompton Road, London 

3. Thermage eye laser treatment, CosmeticsSkinClinic.com, 8 Devonshire Place, London

4. Medical microdermabrasion with laser, HarleyMedical.co.uk, 93a Chiswick High Road & 6 Harley Street, London

5. Botox treatments, DoctorSib.com, 13 Crescent Place, London 
    

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