Crow's feet are the fine lines that fan out from the corners of your eyes when you smile. Plenty of people like them, and plenty would prefer them a little softer. In this article Paul, Clinical Director at 65Beauty, explains where crow's feet come from and why our practitioners always map the muscle before any anti-wrinkle treatment takes place.
Paul appears in real video filmed at our clinic; his voice in this video is AI-generated and lip-synced, made with his consent. The treatment footage is real and filmed with consent.
What are crow's feet?
Crow's feet are the lines at the outer corners of the eyes. They usually appear first when you smile, laugh or squint, and they are often one of the earliest expression lines people notice. Over time, as skin naturally becomes thinner and less elastic, they can start to show even when your face is at rest.
Where they come from
As Paul explains in the video, crow's feet come from the muscle that circles the eye. It is the muscle that helps you close your eyes and that crinkles them when you smile. Every genuine smile, every squint into bright light, folds the skin at the side of the eye. Sun exposure also plays a part, because the skin around the eyes is delicate and can show the effects of daylight over the years. Wearing sunglasses and a daily sunscreen is a simple habit that helps protect it.
Why we map the muscle first
The muscle around the eye is not the same on everyone. Its shape, strength and the way it moves when you smile are individual to you. That is why our practitioners map exactly where the muscle sits before anything else happens.
Mapping means watching your face as you smile, squint and relax, and planning where small amounts of anti-wrinkle treatment should go. Careful placement matters around the eyes. The goal is to soften the lines while keeping your smile looking like your smile. Nobody wants a result that looks frozen or changes how they come across.
What happens at your appointment
- Consultation. Every treatment starts with a consultation. We discuss what you would like to change, go through your medical history and check you are suitable.
- Mapping. Your practitioner studies how the muscle around your eye moves and plans the treatment points.
- Preparation. The skin is cleansed.
- Treatment. Small amounts are placed carefully with a very fine needle. It only takes a few minutes.
- Aftercare. We explain what to do for the rest of the day and how to contact us if you have questions.
After your treatment
Anti-wrinkle treatment works gradually, so do not expect to see a change straight away. Any small marks or slight redness at the injection points usually settle quickly. Results vary from person to person, and your practitioner will explain possible side effects during your consultation so you know what is normal and when to get in touch.
Frequently asked questions
Will my smile still look natural?
That is the aim. By mapping the muscle and placing small amounts carefully, our practitioners plan treatment to soften the lines while keeping your expressions natural. Your individual plan is discussed at your consultation.
Is treatment near the eyes safe?
Treatment around the eyes needs care and experience, which is why we map the area first and only treat after a full consultation. As with any medical treatment there can be side effects, and these will be explained to you before you decide.
How long does it take?
The treatment itself only takes a few minutes. Allow time for your consultation and mapping as well.
Who is it not suitable for?
Anti-wrinkle treatment is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for people with certain medical conditions. We check all of this at your consultation.
Book a consultation
If you are curious about softening your crow's feet, our team at 39 Kings Road, Brentwood, will talk you through whether treatment is right for you. 65Beauty is a nurse-led, CQC-registered clinic, and every treatment starts with a consultation. Book a consultation
Results vary. Treatments are for adults aged 18 and over and are subject to a consultation.
Results vary from person to person. Every treatment starts with a consultation with a registered clinician.