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The Eyes Have It

Carruthers & Humphrey Cosmetic Dermatology, Vancouver, British Columbia

That is, our eyes have suddenly taken centre stage with the widespread adoption of face masks. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought with it many changes, the newfound ubiquity of masks perhaps one of the most distinct among them.

Like many other businesses, we’re now asking our patients to wear masks to their appointments as a recommended health and safety measure. Of course, our team will also be wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE) as directed by provincial medical authorities. With this introduction of masks, we’ve quickly realized how accustomed we’ve become to scanning faces for important non-verbal and emotional cues. Are you smiling? Are you eager or apprehensive for your appointment? I’m sure you’re noticing similar moments in your everyday life too.

As mask culture becomes the norm, we’re adapting to rely on the periocular region—the environment around the eyes—to read and convey emotions and facilitate meaningful communication.

Researchers who have studied the effects of human smiles have determined the Duchenne smile is one of the most influential human expressions. It’s the smile that most of us recognize as the most authentic expression of happiness, one that reaches the eyes, making the corners wrinkle up with crow’s feet. Yes, crow’s feet—the very wrinkles that many of us wish to soften—could be the powerful key to conveying emotion, inspiring empathy, and effectively communicating during these unprecedented times.

Now more than ever, with the upper third of the face suddenly in the spotlight, natural-looking outcomes are essential. When it comes to common treatment solutions for crow’s feet, we’re predicting a trend towards softer results which preserve more of our expression.

There will be no mistake at C&H – the masks won’t hide our happiness to see you back at the clinic.

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