We hate to say it but unfortunately it’s the truth. Neck wrinkles usually show up faster than face wrinkles. And because we are so focused on our faces’ aging signs, it’s usually what we pay the closest attention to. But if the neck area is neglected, it could result in premature aging in the form of wrinkles and sagging. Yikes!

Why our necks age first

According to Carmen Castilla, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, the skin on the neck is more delicate than the skin on the face. This means that even a small decrease in collagen can result in saggy and crepey skin.

She notes that the indicators of neck aging are sagging, lines that go across, ridges that go up and down, thin skin, and lack of elasticity. Even though it’s impossible to absolutely stop the neck from maturing, following some essential neck care tips can help protect this sensitive area from harm and keep it looking vibrant and youthful. Let’s dive in. 

Cleanse every single day: 

Be sure to cleanse the area from your chin to your chest, since it is as prone to dirt and makeup as the rest of your face. This might be a tricky area to reach, so use a micellar water and cotton pad afterwards to make sure the job is done. 

Never forget sunscreen:

Daily sun protection is just as important for your neck as it is for the rest of your body in order to help slow down the signs of aging. According to Dr. Castilla, “Continuous sun exposure will cause changes in the skin’s texture, appearing as crepey skin or reddish-brown discoloration.” She recommends using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day and reapplying it every two to four hours, or more often if you are sweating, swimming, or spending a lot of time outdoors.

Use an antioxidant serum in the AM:

We know the sun causes aging but people often forget about free radicals, which can also lead to premature aging. To combat this, use an antioxidant serum on your neck every morning. You won’t be sorry. 

Use a gentle form of retinol at night:

At night, after washing your face and neck, apply a moisturizing serum and then use a mild retinoid. Retinoids can help to encourage collagen production, which gives the skin more strength. Keep in mind that your neck skin is thin and delicate, so try to either blend the product with another cream or pick a milder version to avoid any potential irritation.

Layer on the neck cream:

Get a neck cream and put it on thick. These creams are specifically designed for the thin skin of the neck, and tend to contain thicker and more hydrating ingredients in order to compensate for the lack of sebaceous glands. Many of these creams also have components which help increase the production of collagen and elastin. We can all use some of that!