Under-eye wrinkles
Under-eye wrinkles are fine lines in the thin skin beneath the lower eyelids. Some appear mainly during smiling, while others remain visible at rest as crepey texture. They are different from dark circles, bags and tear-trough hollows, although these concerns often coexist.
What you may notice
- Fine lines that deepen with smiling
- Crepey lower-eyelid texture
- Dryness making lines more visible
- Nearby shadow, hollowing or puffiness
Why it can happen
Thin periocular skin is repeatedly folded by blinking and facial expression. Age-related collagen and elastin change, ultraviolet exposure, genetics, smoking, irritation and dryness influence texture. Lower-lid support and eye-surface health are important because not every treatment is appropriate close to the eye.
What may help
Gentle moisturising, sun protection and avoiding irritating products may improve dryness and prevent added damage. Depending on anatomy, options include cautious resurfacing, selected energy devices or conservative muscle relaxation. Filler treats a hollow rather than the wrinkles themselves and may worsen swelling in unsuitable cases.
When to consult
Seek specialist assessment before treatment near the lower eyelid, especially with dry eye, swelling or prior surgery. Sudden drooping, painful redness, marked swelling or vision changes requires prompt medical care.
Evidence and sources
- DermNet. Facial lines and wrinkles [Internet]. Auckland: DermNet New Zealand Trust; 2004 [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/facial-lines-and-wrinkles (new tab)
- DermNet. Ageing skin [Internet]. Auckland: DermNet New Zealand Trust; 2018 [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/ageing-skin (new tab)
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Skin rejuvenation and resurfacing [Internet]. Arlington Heights (IL): American Society of Plastic Surgeons; [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/skin-rejuvenation-and-resurfacing (new tab)
- US Food and Drug Administration. Wrinkle treatments and other anti-aging products [Internet]. Silver Spring (MD): FDA; 2024 [cited 2026 Nov 7]. Available from: https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/wrinkle-treatments-and-other-anti-aging-products (new tab)