Crow’s feet and under-eye wrinkles are among the first visible signs of skin ageing for many people. They can appear as fine lines at the outer corners of the eyes or as creases beneath the lower eyelids, becoming more noticeable when you smile, squint, or spend time in the sun. While ageing is a natural part of the process, several factors can influence when these lines appear and how prominent they become. Sun exposure, repeated facial movement, dryness, smoking, and gradual changes in collagen and skin elasticity can all contribute. The good news is that you do not need an elaborate routine to care for the delicate eye area. Consistent sun protection, moisturisation, appropriate active ingredients, and healthy lifestyle habits can make a meaningful difference over time.
What Causes Crow’s Feet and Under-Eye Wrinkles?
The skin around your eyes is particularly delicate, and repeated facial expressions naturally create movement in this area. Over time, the skin becomes less resilient, and lines that once appeared only when smiling may become visible even when your face is relaxed.
Sun exposure is another major contributor. Ultraviolet radiation accelerates visible skin ageing and contributes to wrinkles, uneven pigmentation, and loss of firmness. Smoking can also accelerate skin ageing.
Dryness can make existing lines look more noticeable too. When skin loses moisture, fine lines can appear temporarily more pronounced.
How Can You Reduce Their Appearance?
1. Make Sunscreen Non-Negotiable
Broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher should be part of your morning routine. Protecting the skin around your eyes from UV exposure helps reduce further photoageing.
2. Keep the Eye Area Moisturised
A moisturiser can temporarily plump the skin by trapping water, making fine lines appear less noticeable. Apply products gently around the eyes rather than rubbing or pulling the skin.
3. Consider Retinoids
Retinoids, including retinol, are commonly used to address fine lines, pigmentation, and uneven texture. However, the eye area can be sensitive, so introduce retinol gradually and choose a formulation appropriate for the area.
Can Collagen Help?
Collagen is a structural protein involved in skin firmness and elasticity. Oral collagen supplementation has shown potential benefits for skin hydration and elasticity in clinical research, although the evidence is not a substitute for proven basics such as sun protection.
If you want to add nutritional support to your routine, INJA Wellness offers collagen products including marine collagen options, which can be incorporated into a broader wellness routine.
Key Takeaways
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UV exposure is a major contributor to visible wrinkles.
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Moisturisation can make fine lines look less noticeable.
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Retinoids may help improve fine lines over time.
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Consistent sunscreen use is essential.
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Collagen supplementation may support skin hydration and elasticity.
Conclusion
Crow’s feet are a normal part of ageing, but that does not mean you have to ignore them. A simple routine built around sunscreen, moisturisation, appropriate actives, and healthy habits can help maintain healthier-looking skin. Professional treatments can also be considered if wrinkles are a significant concern.
FAQs
Can moisturiser remove crow’s feet?
Moisturiser cannot permanently remove wrinkles, but it can hydrate the skin and temporarily make fine lines appear softer.
Can retinol help with under-eye wrinkles?
Retinol and other retinoids may help improve the appearance of fine lines over time. Because the skin around the eyes is sensitive, use an appropriate formulation and introduce it gradually.
At what age do crow’s feet appear?
There is no fixed age. Genetics, sun exposure, facial movement, lifestyle, and skin characteristics all influence when they become noticeable.
What Is the Best Treatment for Crow’s Feet?
The best treatment depends on wrinkle depth, skin type, and individual goals. Sunscreen and retinoids can help improve and prevent fine lines, while professional treatments such as botulinum toxin may temporarily reduce expression-related crow’s feet. A dermatologist can recommend the most suitable option.