Yes, Botox Can Soften Crow's Feet If Done Correctly

Publish date: 2024-03-16

Crow's feet are a natural part of aging (and smiling!), yet that doesn't keep us from looking for solutions to minimize their appearance. Botox is perhaps the most popular treatment for softening crow's feet — but it's not the only one. To find out more, we consulted a top dermatologist to learn everything there is to know about crow's feet and why Botox serves as the go-to method for nipping them in the bud (albeit, temporarily).

From benefits to cost to potential side effects, keep scrolling for our complete guide to treating crow's feet with Botox.

What Are Crow's Feet?

Crow's feet are fine lines that form around the eyes naturally as we age. However, genetics and certain lifestyle choices, such as sun exposure and smoking, may affect the appearance of crow's feet.

Can Botox Treat Crow's Feet?

Botox is an injectable that is used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, including crow's feet. "It can soften the orbicularis oculi muscle, which is the muscle whose contraction is the cause for crow's feet," says Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. "By softening this construction we reduce the drag of the muscle on the skin, and therefore, we get soft softer lines around the eyes."

The Results

How many units of Botox you get and how quickly your body metabolizes it will determine how long your results last. Typically, Dr. Henry uses between eight and 24 units to treat crow's feet, with results holding for three to four months.

Risks and Side Effects

As with any cosmetic procedure, going to a skilled professional will help to mitigate any risk. When treating crow's feet with Botox, side effects are not common as long as the procedure is done correctly. "If injected improperly and too close to some of the ocular muscles of the eye, which shift the eye and help to position our gaze, you can get blurry vision," warns Dr. Henry. And if Botox goes into the eyelid, you run the risk of getting a heaving eyelid, too, she adds.

Also, since the skin around the eyes is thinner than on other areas of the face, it doesn't hurt as much as some would expect. Dr. Henry points out that less pressure needs to be applied to the needle, and if numbing cream is applied to the area beforehand, discomfort should be minimal.

VIDEO: 6 Post-Botox Mistakes Way Too Many People Are Making

Cost

The price of your treatment will be determined by where you are located geographically (prices tend to be higher in largely populated areas), your dermatologist, and how many units of Botox you receive. However, Dr. Henry estimates that treating crow's feet with Botox ranges between $250 to $600.

Alternative Treatments

It depends on what your skin concerns and goals are. If there's volume loss, Dr. Henry may recommend supplementing the Botox with some filler to plump up the lateral cheek area to further soften lines that may run down the cheek. Product-wise, she uses Revision Skincare's Revox Line Relaxer Serum which works synergistically with your Botox to maintain results and improve skin texture. And, of course, she stresses the importance of everyday sunscreen use to prevent any premature fine lines and wrinkles.

Frequently Asked Questions

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