Eventually almost everyone will develop these types of wrinkles. But some people develop them much earlier than others - often as a result of certain lifestyle choices. Fortunately, it is possible to fight back against these crow’s feet - especially if they’re still only fine lines. The following guide delves more into the causes, how to prevent crow’s feet and how to get rid of them if you already have them.

What causes crow’s feet?

Years of facial expressions will eventually cause you to develop crow’s feet. But there are three main things that can cause you to develop them prematurely. 

• Squinting: Crow’s feet are dynamic wrinkles that are formed by squinting. If you quint a lot, these creases are more likely to turn into permanent wrinkles. 

• Smoking: Many people squint their eyes to avoid smoke while smoking. Inhaling cigarette smoke also causes us to inhale toxins that degrade collagen and elastin within our skin. 

• Sun exposure: Squinting in sunny weather can also contribute to crow’s feet,  while UV radiation from the sun can break down collagen and elastin within our skin.

How to prevent crow’s feet

There are a few ways in which you may be able to delay development of eye wrinkles:

Wear shades

Wearing sunglasses on a sunny day could prevent you from squinting as much. Just make sure to choose a pair that is adequately tinted.

Moisturize

Moisturizing helps to trap oils in the skin, preventing the skin from drying out and delaying wrinkles. There are special moisturisers that you can buy for the eye area. 

Quit smoking

Smoking is very bad for your skin. Quitting smoking can help slow down the aging process and may prevent you from squinting as much.

Wear sunscreen

Slapping on some sunscreen will help to reduce UV damage from the sun’s rays. Choose a high factor sunscreen if you have a very fair complexion. 

Wear prescription glasses

If you have eyesight issues, make sure to get your eyes tested and get yourself some prescription glasses/contact lenses. Not only could this be important to being able to see the world clearly, but it could also prevent you squinting as often.

How to get rid of crow’s feet

Already started to get crow’s feet? There may still be treatments you can explore to reduce these wrinkles if they are only fine lines. A few proven remedies include:

Retinol

Retinol is found in many anti-aging serums and moisturisers. It is one of the few scientifically-backed chemicals that can reverse ageing by boosting collagen and elastin production. You can compare some of the best retinol-based products in this New York Times guide. 

Botox

Botox injections are commonly used to treat dynamic wrinkles like crow’s feet. These injections can be used to temporarily paralyse muscles in the face. Look for the best Botox Med Spa and book your treatment.

Laser resurfacing

Lasers can be used to get rid of an array of skin defects. This includes wrinkles such as crow’s feet. Look for a clinic in your area that provides laser resurfacing and see if you are a suitable candidate.

Conclusion

Lifestyle factors like squinting a lot, smoking and not wearing sunglasses could be causing you to develop crow’s feet wrinkles. Correct these behaviours, and consider looking into treatments like retinol creams and Botox to help get rid of crow’s feet.