One day, you’re doe-eyed and energetic, casually breezing through life on your parents’ health insurance. Next, you’re carefully examining the changes in your skin, from deeper smile lines to your forehead folding more than usual. This is what we call aging, people.
Not to be frowned upon, aging is a beautiful thing, and so is the evidence of a life well-lived that appears all over our bodies. Loss of elasticity, fine lines, and wrinkles are common signs of aging. And while we employ several products to treat those markers on our face—from plumping growth factor serums to the best-in-class sunscreen—it’s no secret that our necks often get neglected in the process.
The Neck-Smoothing Shopping List
- The Skin-Firming Hero: RoC Derm Correxion Serum Stick, $26
- The Tightening Treasure: Strivectin Peptight™ Serum, $79
- The Plumping Moisturizer: Filorga Time-Filler 5-XP Cream, $98
- The High-Tech Formula: Revision Skincare Nectifirm Advanced, $159
We get it: Neck wrinkles are a common concern for many. However, just as with any line or wrinkle that emerges on our skin, there are several preventative skin care formulas (including fan-favorite neck creams) and practices to reduce their appearance. Luckily, we polled Dr. Marisa Garshick, a NYC- and NJ-based dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery and clinical assistant professor at Cornell University, to learn about the formation and prevention of neck wrinkles. Using her insights, we compiled a list of the best skin care products to treat and reduce the appearance of neck wrinkles.
Can wrinkles on the neck go away?
Neck wrinkles are a natural part of aging and cannot be completely eradicated. However, before you panic, several products and in-office treatments work effectively to dramatically improve the appearance of wrinkles on the neck.
“Wrinkles on the neck can be improved with various treatments, including topical creams, in-office procedures such as laser resurfacing and microneedling, and injectables like neuromodulators and fillers,” Dr. Garshick notes.
How do they form in that specific area?
Beyond genetics, lifestyle can play a major part in neck wrinkles forming—as in, sometimes, it’s okay to put the phone down and pick your head up. Mainly, “wrinkles on the neck may result from a loss of collagen that leads to crepiness and laxity of the skin, which can contribute to wrinkles,” Dr. Garshick says. If you’ve ever heard of the term “tech neck,” then you understand how harmful excessive use of technology can be to our skin. “Additionally, repeated movements like looking down at the phone can contribute to the formation of horizontal neck lines, commonly referred to as tech neck.”
What preventative measures can one take to reduce the appearance of wrinkles?
Not that we needed to say it, but a reminder: Sunscreen is a non-negotiable and is to be worn daily. Why? “It is important to wear sunscreen to protect the skin on the neck from UV damage, which can contribute to collagen breakdown and skin elasticity, ultimately contributing to the appearance of wrinkles,” Dr. Garshick explains. If possible, Dr. Garshick advises repositioning your phone, laptop, or tablet to minimize the need to constantly look down. “It can also be helpful to moisturize the skin on the neck regularly to help keep the neck plump and hydrated,” she adds.
What ingredients should you look for in a product?
“Some ingredients that can help prevent and treat wrinkles include retinol, peptides, growth factors, and antioxidants. Retinol, peptides, and growth factors work to support collagen production, helping to firm the skin and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” Dr. Garshick shares. Antioxidants, on the other hand, like vitamin C, “protect against free radical damage,” she says. If you’re looking for the ultimate plumping and conditioning ingredients, try looking for products that contain “hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which can help plump the skin and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”
Shop Expert-Approved Products for Treating Neck Wrinkles
Filorga Time-Filler 5-XP Wrinkle Correction Moisturizing Skin Cream
“Containing plumping peptides, sea fennel extract, and kangaroo flower extract, this cream helps to correct five different types of wrinkles, including expression wrinkles and neck lines. It can be used twice daily on both the face and the neck. I especially love that it’s gentle on the skin and won’t leave the skin feeling irritated.”—Dr. Marisa Garshick
Revision Skincare Nectifirm Advanced
“This is a great option for those with signs of moderate to advanced aging on the neck. The serum combines technology that utilizes the microbiome, along with a peptide blend, Smart Antioxidant Technology, and red microalgae extract, to help the skin appear more firm and lifted, while smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”—Dr. Marisa Garshick
RoC Derm Correxion Advanced Retinol Firming Serum Stick
“RoC’s stick contains retinol, antioxidants, and THPE to help firm the skin. The formula offers both instant and long-term benefits and is fragrance-free, making it a great option for all skin types. I also love that it is easy to use and fast-absorbing.”—Dr. Marisa Garshick
Strivectin Peptight™ Tightening Neck Serum Roller
“This lightweight serum contains a combination of polymers, peptides, moisturizing ingredients, and NIA-114 technology to help tighten, firm, and lift the neck area. It is applied using a cooling massage roller to help improve absorption and minimize pulling on the neck.”—Dr. Marisa Garshick
