If the eyes are windows to the soul, the neck is the part of your body that refuses to tell a lie (for better or worse). It isn’t uncommon to start to see signs of aging appear on the neck first — as fine lines, deeper creases, and even age and sun spots that come out of hiding decades after you got those bad sunburns on the beach in pursuit of “golden” skin. There are a few reasons why your neck tells tales that your face and body can better conceal: for one thing, the skin on your neck is very thin and delicate. As such, it doesn’t contain as much collagen and elastin as areas like your cheeks and this means sagging and fine lines are quicker to happen here.
And, of course, your neck is exposed to the elements more often than you might realize. If you’re like a lot of people, you go outside on many days without adding sunscreen to your neck — even if you’ve been faithfully coating your face in SPF 30 for years. It’s too easy to forget the neck, and the outcome of neglecting this area can be faster aging.
But don’t despair: there are plenty of skincare serums and moisturizers that target the neck — the only challenge is finding one that works for you and is effective. Here are five of the best anti-aging products for a smoother, younger-looking neck and chest.
Neostrata Triple Firming Neck Cream
This top-rated neck cream contains three key ingredients that are designed to target sagging and discoloration on the neck and chest: NeoGlucosamine, NeoCitriate, and pro-amino acid. It can help boost collagen and elastin production for a more youthful-looking neck and is ideal for all skin types, including oily, dry, and combination.
This pick has fans of all ages, including one who has this to say about it: “I was about to turn 70 when I first started with this product. I couldn’t “see” instant results, but after about 4-6 weeks I could “feel”” a huge difference. I would say about 3 months using it religiously once a day, sometimes twice, I could see a difference. It’s just a bit firmer, doesn’t feel saggy anymore. My neck looks smoother too.”
You’ll find Neostrata products here — this particular neck cream costs $66.
SkinCeuticals Tripeptide-R Neck Repair
it’s pricey but it works, according to reviewers — that’s pretty much how many fans of this SkinCeuticals neck repair cream describe it. At $135, it’s not cheap, but it also doesn’t skimp on effective ingredients. It contains retinol, which helps create new collagen for healthier-looking, younger-looking skin. It also boasts a peptide complex to help strengthen and firm skin. A little goes a long way, too — just be sure to follow up with a hydrating moisturizer, as retinol can be drying.
One reviewer said: “I developed a few deep lines on my neck that made me super self conscious. I bought this on a whim. Have used nectafirm before and saw no real changes, but this product did wonders. Ive been using for like three months before bed and those lines have disappeared. Its pretty pricey but Im only on the site now because Im buying another bottle.”
You can buy this neck cream here.
SkinMedica Neck Correct Cream
At this same price point as SkinCeuticals neck cream, this pick by SkinMedica vows to tighten skin with ingredients like an antioxidant blend of peptides, green microalgae, and other plant extracts. It can help smoothen deep lines, minimize the appearance of sagging skin, and protect against free radicals.
According to one reviewer: “Skin care product for the mature women. Product penetrates skin quickly. Be advised to take a picture of your neck prior to starting the neck correct. Take another picture between 6-8 weeks to see your progress. I have seen results.”
Snag this cream here for $135.
Perricone MD Cold Plasma Plus+ Neck Chest SPF 25
This cream by Perricone MD is a great multitasker because it helps reverse sun damage with vitamin C, copper peptides, antioxidants, and DMAE. But it also contains SPF 25 to protect the skin on your neck and chest from future sun damage. At $95, it’s more reasonably priced than several popular neck creams and it has a cult following.
One review had this to say: “I have never found a neck tightening cream better than this! I used this many years ago but hesitated in spending the money again. As I aged, my neck continued to sag & become very loose. I ordered the cream 3 weeks ago & started to see improvement almost immediately. It tightens the crepey neck skin within the first week. Then, by week 3, I actually see more firmness overall. It is as good as I remember. Just wish I purchased it sooner.”
You can but this cream here.
Paula’s Choice Resist Intensive Repair Cream
Maybe it doesn’t have the word “neck” in its name, but this retinol cream by Paula’s Choice is the perfect choice for your face, neck, and chest. Its ingredients list reads like a who’s who of great skincare ingredients and includes not just retinol for collagen production, but hyaluronic acid for intense hydration, peptides to reduce the appearance of fine lines, and jojoba oil to nourish and smoothen skin. It’s also the most affordable pick on this list, at just $38.
One review said: “I'm probably on my 4 bottle of this-I love it so much! Very light texture, no smell, non-greasy, absorbs quickly, and best of all it works! This product does what the label says it is supposed to do. My skin texture and coloring has improved all without the irritation of more potent retinol products. I use it at night on face, neck, décolletage, and top of hands. And, I think this product works just as well as products that are 2 and 3 times more expensive.”
You can snag this cream here.
