Crow’s feet are the small fan-like wrinkles that spread from the outer corners of your eyes—most visible when you smile or squint. Botox is the most common non-surgical treatment to soften these lines by relaxing the tiny muscles that crease the skin. This guide explains how it works, how long it lasts, how much it costs, how many units you may need, aftercare, risks, and answers to the most-asked questions so you leave 100% confident.
What Is Crow’s Feet Botox?
Botox (botulinum toxin type A) is injected in very small amounts into the orbicularis oculi muscles at the outer eye corners. By temporarily reducing muscle activity, the overlying skin looks smoother, giving a refreshed, natural expression—especially when smiling.
Does It Really Work?
Yes—Botox helps dynamic crow’s feet caused by movement. You’ll typically notice softening within 3–7 days, with full effect by about 14 days. Results last about 3–4 months for most people (sometimes up to 5–6 months with regular maintenance and lower muscle activity).
How Many Units of Botox for Crow’s Feet?
There’s no one-size-fits-all dose—your injector will tailor units to muscle strength, anatomy, and your goals. Typical starting ranges are:
| Wrinkle Severity | Units Per Side* | Total (Both Sides) |
|---|---|---|
| Mild (lines only when smiling) | 4–6 units | 8–12 units |
| Moderate | 6–10 units | 12–20 units |
| Severe (lines at rest) | 10–12 units | 20–24 units |
*These are common clinical ranges. Your licensed provider may adjust up or down for symmetry, anatomy, and desired movement.
Exact-match FAQs for SEO
- how many units of botox for crow’s feet: usually 4–12 units per side, 8–24 total, customized by your injector.
- does botox help crows feet: yes, it softens movement-related lines and can prevent them from deepening over time.
How Much Does Crow’s Feet Botox Cost?
Most U.S. clinics price by the unit. A typical range is $10–$20 per unit. Using 12–24 total units, expect roughly $120–$480 per session. Pricing varies by city, clinic reputation, and injector experience.
Before & After: What to Expect
- Before: Arrive without heavy eye makeup. Share medical history, allergies, medications, and past treatments. Photos may be taken for botox before and after comparison.
- During: A few tiny injections at each outer eye corner. Treatment time is ~5–10 minutes.
- After (Timeline):
- 0–4 hours: Stay upright; avoid pressing or massaging the areas.
- Day 1–2: Mild redness or pinpoint bruising may occur and fades quickly.
- Day 3–7: Lines start to soften.
- ~Day 14: Peak result. Take your “after” photo for comparison.
How Long Do Results Last & How Often Should I Repeat?
Plan maintenance every 3–4 months. Consistent treatments often train the muscles to relax more easily, which may prolong effects or reduce units needed over time.
Safety, Side Effects & Who Should Avoid It
- Common & temporary: Pinpoint bruising, swelling, redness, or tenderness at injection sites.
- Less common: Asymmetry, smile imbalance, or eyelid heaviness—usually dose/placement related and temporary.
- Avoid or defer if: Pregnant or breastfeeding, active skin infection at the site, certain neuromuscular disorders, known allergy to botulinum toxin, or recent eye/eyelid surgery—discuss with your clinician.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Adults with movement-related crow’s feet who want a quick, low-downtime option and natural expression (not a “frozen” look). If you have deeper static lines present even at rest, your provider may recommend combining Botox with skin-quality treatments (microneedling, lasers, chemical peels) or dermal fillers for etched-in lines.
Aftercare Tips for Best Results
- Avoid rubbing, facials, or eye massages for 24–48 hours.
- Skip high-intensity workouts, saunas, and hot yoga for 24 hours.
- Use sunglasses to reduce squinting; consider an eye-safe retinoid and daily SPF to protect skin quality.
- Book your follow-up or maintenance in ~3–4 months.
Related Treatments You May Consider
- Forehead & frown lines: Botox can balance upper-face harmony.
- Botox lip flip / eyebrow lift / under-eyes: Targeted doses for specific goals—ask your injector about suitability.
- Skin boosters, PRP, lasers: Improve texture and fine etched lines that Botox alone may not erase.
Quick Answers (FAQ)
- Does Botox help crow’s feet?
- Yes. It relaxes the muscles that crease the outer eye area, softening lines and helping prevent them from deepening.
- How many units of Botox for crow’s feet?
- Commonly 4–12 units per side, for a total of 8–24 units, tailored to your anatomy and goals.
- How long will it last?
- About 3–4 months for most people.
- How much will it cost?
- At $10–$20 per unit in the USA, total cost is roughly $120–$480 depending on units and location.
- When will I see results?
- Initial softening in 3–7 days; full result by ~2 weeks.
Medical disclaimer: This article is informational and not a substitute for in-person evaluation by a licensed medical professional. Always follow your provider’s advice for your situation.
