Anti-Wrinkle treatment
Crow's Feet
Soften the fine lines that form at the outer corners of the eyes.
- Treatment time
- Around 10–15 minutes
- Results
- First changes in 2–3 days; full effect by about 2 weeks
- Longevity
- Typically 3–4 months
- Downtime
- None
- From
- £210
About Crow's Feet
Crow's feet are the fine lines that fan out from the outer corners of the eyes. They're formed by the orbicularis oculi, the muscle that closes the eyes and lifts the cheeks when you smile — which is why they're usually most obvious mid-laugh.
A few precisely placed injections relax the outer part of that muscle so the lines soften, while the rest of the eye area keeps moving normally. The aim is a fresher, brighter eye area that still smiles.
Key Benefits
- 01Softens the lines that fan out from the outer eyes
- 02Brightens and refreshes the whole eye area
- 03Preserves a natural smile — the treatment avoids the under-eye
- 04Very small doses and a quick appointment
- 05Pairs well with frown and forehead treatment for the full upper face
- 06Can help fine lines look less etched over time
Is this treatment right for me?
Crow's feet treatment suits anyone whose smile lines around the eyes have started to linger after the smile fades. Because the skin here is thin, the assessment looks carefully at how much of the line is muscle-driven and how much is skin quality.
You may be suitable if…
- You notice lines at the outer corners of the eyes when you smile or squint
- The lines are starting to show at rest
- You'd like a subtle, natural refresh rather than a dramatic change
- You're not pregnant or breastfeeding
Your consultation will consider…
- How the muscles in the area move and how strong they are
- Whether the lines are present at rest or only with expression
- Your medical history, any medication and previous treatments
- Realistic expectations and how the result fits your face as a whole
What to expect
Before treatment
Every course of treatment starts with a face-to-face consultation with John. He'll look at how your face moves, talk through what's bothering you and what a natural result would look like for you, and check your medical history. Because this is a prescription-only treatment, it is only offered after that assessment. There's nothing special to do beforehand, though it helps to arrive without heavy make-up on the area.
During treatment
The treatment itself is quick. John marks the points to be treated, then places a series of very small injections with a fine needle into the targeted muscle. Most people describe a brief pinch or sting rather than pain, and no anaesthetic is normally needed. The whole appointment, including a chat about aftercare, usually takes around 15–20 minutes. For crow's feet the injections sit to the outer side of the eye, well away from the delicate under-eye skin.
After treatment
You can leave straight away and carry on with your day. There may be small raised bumps at the injection points for 15–20 minutes and occasionally a little redness or a tiny bruise. The muscle starts to relax gradually over the following days, so you won't see a change immediately.
Watch
Results & longevity
You'll usually notice the muscle beginning to relax two to three days after treatment, with the full effect visible at around two weeks — this is when we assess the result and make any small adjustment. Results typically last three to four months before movement gradually returns. How long they last depends on the area, the dose, how strong the muscle is and your own metabolism; regular exercisers sometimes find results wear off a little sooner. Further treatment can be planned once movement returns, and with repeated treatment some people find lines soften over time.
Recovery, side effects & aftercare
Anti-wrinkle injections are one of the gentlest treatments we offer in terms of recovery. There is no real downtime, and most people go straight back to work or their normal routine.
Side effects
Common temporary effects are a little redness, tenderness or a small bruise where the needle went in, and occasionally a mild headache in the first day or two. Less commonly the treatment can affect a nearby muscle — for example a temporarily heavier brow or, rarely, a drooping eyelid — which wears off as the product does. Very rarely people experience flu-like symptoms. Results are also temporary and can be slightly uneven at first; a review at two weeks lets us fine-tune if needed.
Aftercare
Stay upright and avoid lying down for around four hours after treatment. Don't rub, massage or apply pressure to the treated area for 24 hours, and skip make-up on the injection points for the rest of the day. Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, hot baths and alcohol for 24 hours, as these can increase bruising. You can gently cleanse the skin as normal.
Please contact the clinic if you notice a drooping eyelid, significant asymmetry, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or anything that worries you — we'd always rather hear from you.
- Downtime
- None
- Redness
- Mild, usually gone within an hour
- Swelling
- Small bumps for 15–20 minutes
- Bruising
- Occasional small bruise, fades within a few days
- Normal activities
- Immediately; avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I still be able to smile normally?
Yes. Only the outer part of the muscle is treated, so your smile and the natural movement around your eyes are preserved; the lines simply soften.
Does it help with under-eye lines or bags?
No — this treats the muscle-driven lines at the outer corners. Under-eye hollowness or crepey skin is usually better addressed with polynucleotides or tear-trough treatment, which John can discuss.
Can it be combined with other treatments?
Often, yes. Anti-wrinkle treatment is commonly paired with skin boosters or dermal fillers in a wider plan. John will advise on sensible spacing between appointments.
When will I see results?
The muscle relaxes gradually. Most people notice the first change after two to three days, with the full effect visible at around two weeks. We offer a review at that point if anything needs adjusting.
How long do results last?
Typically three to four months, after which movement gradually returns. Longevity varies with the area, the dose and your own metabolism; repeat treatment can be planned at consultation.
Does it hurt?
Most people describe a quick pinch. The needle is very fine and each injection takes a second or two, so it's over quickly. No anaesthetic is normally needed.
Is there any downtime?
No. You can return to work or your normal day straight away. We just ask you to avoid strenuous exercise, lying down and touching the area for the first few hours.
What happens at the consultation?
John assesses how your face moves, discusses what you'd like to change and checks your medical history. Because this is a prescription-only treatment, it is only offered after that face-to-face assessment. You'll leave with a clear plan and price before anything is booked.
Your Practitioner
John Dixon
Founder & Aesthetician
John founded Trusted Touch Aesthetics in Fulham and specialises in facial balancing, wrinkle reduction and skin rejuvenation. He is CPD-regulated and fully insured, and is known for taking the time to assess your face properly, explaining every option honestly and never over-treating — the aim is always a natural result that still looks like you. Clients regularly mention his calm manner, attention to detail and the aftercare follow-up that checks in on how you're healing.