Crow's Feet

Crow's Feet — the fine lines and creases that fan out from the outer corners of the eyes, named for their resemblance to a bird's footprint. They form largely from repeated squinting and smiling combined with the naturally thin, delicate skin of the eye area.

Key points

  • They are dynamic lines caused by repeated contraction of the muscles around the eyes over years.
  • The skin around the eyes is thinner and has fewer oil glands, making it more prone to early lines.
  • Sun exposure and squinting in bright light accelerate their development, so sunglasses and sunscreen help.
  • Eye-area products with peptides, retinoids used cautiously, and rich moisturizers can help soften their appearance.

Frequently asked

Why do crow's feet appear earlier than other wrinkles?

The skin around the eyes is thinner and moves constantly with expressions like smiling and squinting, so it tends to show lines sooner than thicker areas of the face.

Do sunglasses help prevent crow's feet?

Yes, sunglasses reduce both UV exposure and the squinting that repeatedly creases the delicate skin at the corners of the eyes.

Related topics

This is a foundational entry in the SYNC Skin Encyclopedia and is expanded over time. Educational information only — not medical advice.

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