The neck is one of the first places where we notice signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles, and it’s also an area that’s easy to forget. If you live in a cold climate, chances are you don’t even see your neck for more than half of the year, and remembering to include it in your skincare routine and apply sunscreen to it is a lot to ask when you’re already pressed for time. With so much attention given to areas such as under your eyes and creases on your forehead, it’s not unusual to look up one day into a mirror and think: where do those lines and that sagging on my neck even appear from?
For starters, nothing could be more normal, Board-Certified Dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss explains in this short video — and she in fact reveals that she noticed her own neck creases when she was a small child:
That’s all well and good, you may be saying, but how do I get rid of lines and sagging on my neck? Idriss warns that no cream is going to completely fix deep wrinkles on the neck or sagging (though that doesn’t mean keeping the area moisturized can’t help it look smoother). Instead, here are four ways to smooth out a “sagging” neck and erase “horizontal creases.”
1. Microneedling
You may have heard about the benefits of microneedling for the face, but those same benefits apply to the neck, as well. Microneedling creates very small wounds and punctures in the skin using fine needles. The skin then responds to these micro injuries by boosting its collagen and elastin production to repair those wounds. As a result, you can expect smoother skin texture and an improvement in fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and sagging.
2. Injectables like Radiesse
Hyaluronic injectables for the face are wildly popular, but your neck can achieve the same skin-smoothening results with dermal fillers. Speak with your dermatologist about the ideal filler for your skin type and concern, whether it’s Radiesse, Restylane, or possibly a neuromodulator like Botox. Your doctor should also tell you about the risks involved with these procedures so that you can make an informed decision.
3. Fraxel Laser
A Fraxel or similar resurfacing laser creates microscopic wounds in the skin that triggers production of collagen and elastin to promote healing (similar to microneedling). These lasers also reduce the appearance of lines, hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage, acne scarring, and can have a lifting and tightening effect.
4. Sunscreen
If you start to apply sunscreen to your neck tomorrow, it won’t magically erase wrinkles and reduce sagging, but it will prevent new damage from occurring and your future self will thank you. Don’t discount the power of creams entirely — a nightly retinol to increase skin cell turnover coupled with a daily sunscreen to protect against skin damage are powerful allies in your quest for smoother, brighter skin and a more youthful neck.
