The spelling of the phrase "crow feet" has caused some confusion due to its irregular formation. The correct spelling is actually "crow's feet," with an apostrophe denoting possession. The word "crow's" is pronounced /kroʊz/ with a long "o" sound and a "z" at the end. It refers to the wrinkles that form around the eyes as a result of aging, resembling the feet of a crow. While the phrase may be tricky to spell, it is a common term used in the beauty industry to describe signs of aging.
Crow's feet, also known as laughter or smile lines, refer to the fine lines and wrinkles that appear at the outer corners of the eyes. This term is derived from the distinct resemblance of these lines to the footprints or tracks left by a crow. Crow's feet typically become more prominent and noticeable as individuals age. They are considered a natural sign of aging and are caused by a combination of several factors.
The primary cause of crow's feet is the repetitive movement of the muscles around the eyes, particularly the orbicularis oculi muscle. These muscles contract when we squint, smile, or laugh, causing the skin to fold and crease. Over time, the elasticity of the skin decreases, and the lines become more pronounced. Other contributing factors include exposure to the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, smoking, and genetic predisposition.
Although crow's feet are generally harmless and do not cause any physical discomfort, some individuals may find them undesirable or a sign of premature aging. Various cosmetic treatments and remedies are available to minimize the appearance of crow's feet, including topical creams, serums, dermal fillers, Botox injections, laser resurfacing, and microdermabrasion. However, it is important to note that completely eradicating crow's feet is not possible, as they are a natural part of aging and expression.
The term "crow's feet" is derived from the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that resemble the feet of a crow. The phrase "crow's feet" first emerged in the mid-19th century, and it gained popularity due to the visual similarity between the radiating lines around the outer corners of the eyes and the footprint of a crow. As crows are associated with old age and wisdom in some cultures, this term became commonly used to describe the wrinkles that develop there over time.