How to Smooth Criss-Cross Lines Under Eyes (That Grid of Wrinkles!)

by: Linda Robison / Facial Fitness Specialist

Tips to Hide and Reduce Criss-Cross Lines Under Eyes

Do you have tiny under-eye wrinkles that form a faint mesh pattern—especially when you smile or squint? Me too. These fine lines often creep from the lower lid toward the cheeks, and yep—they're annoying.

This subtle criss-cross texture usually shows up as skin starts thinning with age or dryness, and it’s one of the earliest signs of collagen loss. Left alone, those light creases can deepen and affect how your makeup sits.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through what causes these grid-like under-eye lines and what actually helps smooth them—for a firmer, more refreshed look.

Close-up showing fine criss-cross lines under the eye—common in aging skinThese lines form a subtle mesh pattern that becomes more noticeable as under-eye skin thins with age or dryness

What are criss-cross under-eye lines and how are they different?

These faint, grid-like wrinkles don’t look like typical creases. Instead, they form a shallow, grid-like pattern—almost like a tiny roadmap—that often spreads outward and down toward the cheeks.

Unlike deeper crow’s feet or even crepey under-eye skin (which has more of a loose, papery texture), these fine lines are more surface-level and tend to show up when you smile or squint.

Over time, as collagen breaks down, they can become permanent—even when your face is at rest. Once they appear, they don’t just change how your skin looks—they can also interfere with makeup.

Eyeliner that used to glide on smoothly now smudge and settle into creases. If that sounds familiar, Tip #8 in my eyeliner guide might help. 

And if you're already seeing signs of crepey texture, you’ll find 7 at-home remedies here that really helped me smooth and plump that area.

What causes criss-cross lines and wrinkles under the eyes?

Under-eye wrinkles are not only caused by aging but also by lifestyle habits and environmental stressors.

Here are the most common causes:

  1. Aging: As we age, our skin loses collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), causing thinner, less resilient skin. 
  2. Sun Exposure: Sun damage will almost always lead to the development of criss-cross lines.
  3. Facial Expressions: Smiling and squinting create dynamic wrinkles which become static over time. 
  4. Environmental Factors: Pollution, smoking, and stress spped up skin aging.
  5. Dehydration: Lack of moisture can make fine lines look deeper.
  6. Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to under-eye lines.

How to reduce criss-cross lines under the eyes: Best tips

Smoothing criss-cross under-eye lines takes time, but the right mix of skincare and daily habits can really help.

Here are some quick and long term fixes:

1. Quick fix: Firming eye serums

For a fast pick-me-up, try a tightening eye serum. The right formula won’t just reduce lines—it can also de-puff and brighten tired eyes in minutes.

I’ve tested pretty much every one out there (since 2012!), and some work better than others.

You can see my full review here: Best Under-Eye Serums That Actually Work.

Here’s what criss-cross lines under the eyes can look like—and how mine started to fade

This before-and-after photo shows the faint criss-cross texture under my eyes, which faded after a few months of daily massage and hydrating serums.

Before and after photo showing reduced criss-cross lines under the eyes using massage and serumThese are my own results after 3 months of gentle massage and skin-supporting serums. Notice how the criss-cross texture softens around the lower lid.

The difference is subtle in photos, but much more noticeable in person...

Criss-cross lines under eyes and under-eye puffiness before and after pictures.

I’ve been using anti-wrinkle, de-puffing serums since 2012—and trust me, I’ve tried them all. If puffiness is your main issue, these tips can help reduce it.

Want to see which serums actually worked for me? Here’s how they compare, including Peter Thomas Roth and Plexaderm.

2. Retinol: The gold-standard for wrinkle reduction

Retinol is clinically proven to increase collagen and smooth fine lines over time. For sensitive under-eye skin, choose a low-strength or a gentler, natural formuation to prevent irritation.

Retinol works well for fine lines—including crow’s feet—but under the eyes, go gentle to avoid irritation. 

Like DIY's?

Consider the Zenmed Retinol Booster which can be added directly to your regular moisturizer for a safe collagen boost.

3. Hydrate for plumper smoother skin

According to Dr. Rajani, (an aesthetics expert) using organic moisturizers rich in ceramides, lipids, and fatty acids can improve skin elasticity. A well-hydrated under-eye area looks smoother and more youthful.

ABZ Tip: Avoid alcohol-based eye creams, they dry out delicate skin!

Try Zenmed Omega Ceramide Elixer to enhance hydration and strengtehn the skin barrier.

4. Gentle exfoliation to renew skin

Use gentle exfoliators for under-eye wrinkles. For example sugar or coffee-based eye masks can help remove dead skin cells and brighten the area.

ABZ Tip: Never exfoliate on the same day as retinol. Over-exfoliation can increase sensitivity.

5. Sun protection to prevent wrinkles

ABZ Tip: Wearing SPF daily isn’t optional, it’s a must! Yes, you've heard it before, that's because it's one of the most importnat steps in wrinkle prevention!

  • Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a PA+++ protection.
  • Choose a mineral-based SPF to avoid irritation. Wear sunglasses to prevent squinting.

Make sure your sunscreen is free from chemicals and has at least a PA++ rating.

6. In-office treatments for deep wrinkles

If home remedies aren’t enough, consider in-office treatments like:

  • Microneedling – Boosts collagen with minimal downtime. 
  • Laser Resurfacing – The most effective for deep wrinkles.
  • Dermal Fillers – Best for hollow under-eyes, but may not ideal for under-eye puffiness.

ABZ Tip: Avoid Botox under the eyes, it can worsen creases. Read about the 10 benefits and 4 mistakes that can age you.

How under-eye massage helps reduce fine lines

Studies show that under-eye massage can stimulate blood flow, oxygen, nutrients, and collagen. This natural technique can improve the appearance of fine lines and contribute to a firmer, more youthful look.

Beyond skin benefits, massage relaxes the underlying muscles, which can help prevent and soften dynamic wrinkles—the ones caused by smiling or squinting.

ABZ Tip: Massaging the skin can enhance the penetration and absorption of skincare products, such as moisturizers and serums. This allows the active ingredients to work more effectively.



How to Do It:

  • Use clean hands or a skincare tool like a Gua Sha or jade roller.
  • Apply a few drops of a nourishing oil or serum (such as rosehip or squalane) to provide slip.
  • Using light pressure, make gentle circular motions around the under-eye area.
  • Use tapping motions with your fingertips to boost circulation and encourage lymphatic drainage.
  • Repeat for 1-2 minutes per eye, morning and night.

ABZ Tip: For even better results, use a vibrating heated Gua Sha device to maximize relaxation and product absorption!

What science says about under-eye lines and how to prevent them

Criss-cross lines under the eyes often show up before deeper wrinkles do—and science gives us a few clear reasons why.

From collagen loss to sun damage and dehydration, there’s a lot happening under the surface that makes these fine lines more noticeable with age. Let’s break it down:

Collagen and elastin loss:

These proteins keep your skin firm and bouncy. As we age, we produce less of both, so the skin under the eyes gets thinner and more prone to fine lines. Using products with retinol and vitamin C can help rebuild collagen and smooth things out over time.

Hydration loss:

This makes those fine lines look even deeper. It happens as your skin loses glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)—the molecules that help it stay plump and moisturized. Drinking plenty of water and using hyaluronic acid serums can help restore that bounce.

UV damage:

The sun’s rays break down collagen and elastin even faster, leading to premature wrinkles. That’s why daily sunscreen (look for PA+++) and a good pair of sunglasses are so important.

Free radicals:

These unstable molecules—caused by stress, pollution, or poor diet—can damage skin cells and speed up aging. A diet rich in antioxidants (like berries and leafy greens) helps fight them off. Managing stress also makes a big difference.

Poor circulation:

When blood flow slows, the under-eye area can look dull, puffy, or tired. Gentle massage helps boost circulation, supports natural repair, and helps your skincare products absorb more effectively.

Best under-eye skincare routine for fine lines and wrinkles

Ready to smooth those stubborn under-eye lines? Here’s the anti-aging routine I swear by—simple steps, real results.

🌞 Morning Routine:

  • Cleanse – Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser to wash away oils without stripping the skin.
  • Vitamin C Serum – Brightens dull skin and supports collagen for firmer under-eyes.
  • Peptide Eye Cream – Helps improve elasticity and soften fine lines.
  • SPF 30+ Sunscreen – Protects delicate skin from UV damage (don’t skip it!).

🌙 Evening Routine:

Extra Tips:

  • Drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated from within.
  • Sleep on satin pillowcases to avoid friction and sleep lines.
  • Add a 1-minute under-eye massage to boost circulation and help products absorb better.

Looking for more ways to lift and firm naturally? Check out my other top tips for tired eyes, sagging face, and DIY skincare that actually works.

FAQ:

Question: What causes criss-cross wrinkles under the eyes?

Answer: Criss-cross under-eye lines are caused by a mix of aging, sun exposure, dehydration, repetitive facial movements, and collagen loss.

Question: How can I reduce criss-cross under-eye wrinkles naturally?

Answer: Use under-eye massage, hydrating serums with hyaluronic acid, gentle exfoliants, and sun protection. Natural oils like rosehip or squalane can also improve elasticity.

Also apply SPF daily, stay hydrated, use a gentle hydrating eye cream. Avoid excessive squinting and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.

Question: Are there natural remedies for under-eye wrinkles?

Answer: Yes! Try facial massage, cold compresses, aloe vera gel, DIY hydrating masks, and exfoliation with sugar or coffee to improve under-eye skin.

Question: Does aging cause criss-cross lines under the eyes?

Answer: Yes, aging reduces collagen and elastin, making the skin thinner and more prone to fine lines. By age 30, we lose about 1% of collagen per year, contributing to wrinkles.

Question: Can lifestyle changes help reduce under-eye wrinkles?

Answer: Yes! Wearing sunscreen, staying hydrated, eating antioxidant-rich foods, getting enough sleep, and avoiding smoking or alcohol can help reduce under-eye wrinkles.

Question: Is retinol safe to use under the eyes for these lines?

Answer: Yes, if used carefully. Choose a low-strength or encapsulated retinol, and always moisturize afterward to prevent irritation.

Question: What’s the fastest way to hide criss-cross lines under my eyes?

Answer: A tightening eye serum can visibly smooth lines in minutes. Look for formulas that also depuff and hydrate for best results.

Question: Can under-eye massage really make a difference?

Answer: Yes. Gentle massage improves blood flow, helps products absorb better, and may reduce the appearance of fine lines over time.

Question: What’s the best sunscreen to prevent under-eye wrinkles?

Answer: Choose a mineral-based SPF with PA+++ protection and no alcohol or harsh chemicals. Always wear sunglasses to reduce squinting.

Takeaway: Criss-cross under-eye lines

Yes! You Can Reduce Under-Eye Lines

With the right routine—collagen-boosting products, SPF, and facial massage—you can smooth those criss-cross lines and keep your under-eyes looking fresh and radiant.

Be Patient—Results Take Time

Skin responds differently for everyone. What works for one person may not work for another. Talk to a dermatologist for personalized advice.

Aim for Progress, Not Perfection

At-home treatments won’t replace lasers or fillers, but small wins like smoother, plumper skin still count! Stick with your routine, protect your skin, and celebrate each step forward.

Want a full list of eye wrinkle remedies (from oils to exercises)? Check out my complete guide to eye wrinkle treatments here.



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About the Author:
Linda Robison is a Facial Fitness Specialist and the founder of Anti-Aging Beauty Zone. She shares expert insights on skincare, facial rejuvenation, and beauty treatments—blending traditional wisdom, personal experience, and science-backed research for both at-home and in-office solutions.

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