How to Prevent Aging Neck Skin

One of the first areas of the body to show signs of aging is the neck. As the production of the natural structural proteins collagen and elastin decreases over time, skin elasticity decreases, leading to the increased appearance of wrinkles and creases on the neck and decolletage. In addition to the natural decrease in the production of collagen as we age, environmental factors, unprotected sun exposure, genetics, and lifestyle choices can affect the appearance of horizontal lines, increased skin laxity, and fat cell accumulation in the neck area. Some patients may find that these natural signs of aging lead to feelings of self-consciousness, causing them to wonder if there is a way to prevent aging neck skin. Luckily, expert board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green has many recommendations for skincare products, in-office treatments, and lifestyle changes that can help prevent the appearance of neck wrinkles.

When it comes to preventing aging neck skin, Dr. Green may first recommend lifestyle changes for maximum skin health. Decreased collagen production is a natural part of the aging process and can lead to sagging skin, uneven skin texture, and emphasize the appearance of wrinkles. However, certain environmental factors and habits, such as consistent exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays (UV rays) without sun protection, smoking, dehydration, and eating a diet rich in sugary, fatty foods can all speed the skin aging process. By practicing strict sun protection, quitting smoking, drinking enough water, and eating a balanced diet, patients can decrease the risk of premature aging. Following a consistent skincare routine with a gentle cleanser, weekly exfoliation, retinoids, vitamin C serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher can also maintain skin health over time. Patients already experiencing signs of the natural aging process can turn to in-office treatments like Thermage radiofrequency skin tightening, Fraxel laser resurfacing, microneedling, Botox, or dermal fillers. To find out what treatment and prevention plan is best for you, schedule your initial consultation with experienced dermatologist Dr. Michele Green.

Experienced, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green has been expertly treating patients in her Upper East Side New York City dermatology office for more than 25 years. A master at various cosmetic and medical skincare treatments, Dr. Green is highly adept at creating unique, effective skincare plans for each patient. With her proprietary line of skincare products, MGSKINLABs, Dr. Green can provide patients with recommendations for the highest quality creams, lotions, and serums. Well-known for high patient satisfaction, Dr. Green has been voted one of the best healthcare providers in New York City by such publications as Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine.

What are neck wrinkles and neck lines? What does an aging neck look like?

The neck is an area of the body where the skin is naturally thin, with a lower concentration of structural proteins, collagen and elastin. As we age, production of collagen and elastin decreases, leading to decreased skin elasticity and sagging skin, which can emphasize the appearance of wrinkles. Neck wrinkles can appear as horizontal lines that stretch around the neck—sometimes referred to as “necklace lines” or vertical lines. Patients may find that the neck shows signs of the natural aging process with prominent horizontal or vertical neck lines before other areas of the body. For some, neck lines may begin to appear in their 20s and 30s, becoming more etched into the skin over time.

What causes crepey neck skin?

One contributing factor to crepey, sagging neck skin is the natural decrease in the production of collagen and elastin in the body, which can emphasize the appearance of wrinkles. Another major contributing factor to premature aging is sun damage, which occurs when patients do not use adequate sun protection while exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Patients often neglect to wear sunscreen on the neck area, which can lead to increased skin laxity, pigmentation, and uneven skin tone and texture. Pore posture, sleeping positions, and repeated neck muscle contractions can also contribute to neck wrinkles over time. Some patients experience what is often called “tech neck,” lines and wrinkles that occur when patients are constantly looking down at their phones or computers. Over time, the lines that form when looking down will become etched into the skin, leading to visible creases on the neck. Sleeping positions and overall posture can also contribute to these dynamic wrinkles. Other lifestyle habits that can contribute to premature aging include smoking, eating a diet high in sugary and processed foods, and not drinking enough water. Genetics, stress levels, and family history may also factor into the appearance of neck wrinkles.

How do you prevent your neck from aging?

Dr. Green recommends a combination approach when preventing signs of the natural aging process on the neck skin. Pairing lifestyle changes with a regular skincare routine and in-office treatments can keep the neck looking smooth, bright, and naturally youthful. To start, patients can practice simple lifestyle changes:

Always wear sunscreen. Sun exposure is one of the most significant factors in premature aging. It can damage the skin by causing sun spots, decreased collagen production, rough skin texture, and uneven skin tone. Dr. Green recommends that patients apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning before leaving the house.

Quit or avoid smoking. Studies have demonstrated that smoking cigarettes can be detrimental in many ways, including being detrimental to skin health. Smoking can contribute to increased skin laxity, the appearance of jowls, and bags under the eyes. Research has also suggested that the more you smoke, the more significant your wrinkles.

Be aware of your posture. Looking down for long periods—working at a laptop or looking at your phone—can create what is often referred to as “tech neck.” Tech neck occurs when creases become etched into the skin due to repeated movements. You can prevent tech neck by looking at your technology straight on rather than looking down.

Eat a balanced diet and drink enough water. One of the best ways to keep the skin looking smooth, bright, and youthful is to eat a balanced diet rich in citrus fruits, vegetables, and fatty acids. Drinking water will also help to maintain skin hydration and regulate skin temperature. Avoid processed and high-sugar foods.

Manage stress. High stress levels lead to increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can weaken the skin barrier. A healthy skin barrier helps prevent dryness, creases, and acne breakouts, so managing stress will also contribute to healthier skin overall.

What is the dermatologist-recommended anti-aging skincare routine to prevent neck wrinkles?

Patients can reduce signs of the natural aging process by following a regular skincare routine with dermatologist-recommended products. Every morning and night, Dr. Green recommends beginning your skincare routine with a gentle cleanser to remove sweat or excess oil in the morning and makeup, dirt, sunscreen, and debris in the evening. In the morning, Dr. Green recommends applying an antioxidant, such as vitamin C or vitamin E, to protect the skin from free radicals during the day. Following the cleansing step in the evening, patients can alternate exfoliation with the application of retinoids—a vitamin A derivative that helps with skin cell turnover for smoother, brighter skin. Both morning and evening, patients should hydrate the face and neck with a moisturizer containing active ingredients like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide to improve the skin barrier, prevent dryness, and support collagen production. The last step for every patient’s morning skincare routine should be applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

What is the best neck cream for aging skin?

One of the most crucial factors to consider when selecting an anti-aging neck cream is the product’s active ingredients. Neck creams that include active ingredients such as retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid can help improve the appearance of an aging neck by increasing skin cell turnover and providing essential hydration. Dr. Green recommends MGSKINLABS Neck Renew Skin Rejuvenation Cream, which is an excellent choice for anti-aging treatment on the neck. The Neck Renew formula features beneficial ingredients, including antioxidants, glycerin, niacinamide, and caffeine, to ensure essential skin hydration, enhance elasticity, and refine skin texture. Its formulation is also paraben, oil, and fragrance-free, making it an excellent choice for patients with sensitive skin. Patients should apply their Neck Renew Cream twice daily for optimal results.

Should retinol or other retinoids be used for anti-aging skincare?

Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that are very useful in anti-aging skincare. When applied to the skin’s surface, retinoids like retinol boost skin cell renewal, new cell growth, and collagen production, which improves skin texture and reduces the appearance of wrinkles on the neck. For patients looking to prevent signs of the natural aging process, such as uneven skin texture, increased skin laxity, and fine lines, Dr. Green recommends MGSKINLABs Essential Antioxidant Infusion: PM Retinol. Containing a pure concentration of vitamins A, C, and E, the Essential Antioxidant infusion helps with skin repair overnight. Patients must wear sunscreen while using retinoids, as they can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun and increase the risk of sun damage.

Should I use vitamin C in the form of vitamin C serum to prevent neck wrinkles?

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that improves skin texture and protects it against the negative effects of free radicals. Dr. Green recommends adding MGSKINLABs Vita-C-Serum to patients’ regular skincare routines. When applied morning and night, Vita-C-Serum helps promote skin cell renewal and support collagen synthesis. Ideal for patients with brown or red spots, and the onset of fine lines, this fast-absorbing serum revitalizes and moisturizes skin while improving texture and radiance.

How often do you need to exfoliate to prevent neck wrinkles?

Exfoliation of the skin should be performed one to two times a week to help remove dead skin cells from the face, promoting skin cell turnover and clearing the pores. Two types of exfoliation can be performed: chemical exfoliation and physical exfoliation. Chemical exfoliation involves the application of a solution containing such ingredients as lactic acid or glycolic acid, which causes a reaction with the dead skin cells and debris, causing them to slough off the skin, leaving the skin bright and clear. Physical exfoliation involves the application of an abrasive ingredient, such as biodegradable beads or sugar. Physical exfoliation is highly effective but is more likely to cause skin irritation, so be sure to consult with your dermatologist on which method would be best for you, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Does wearing sunscreen help to prevent neck wrinkles?

One of the most important steps of any skincare routine is the application of sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. It is essential to apply sunscreen every morning as a part of your skincare routine to prevent skin conditions such as hyperpigmentation, premature aging, and skin cancer. Sun damage that appears later in life can be prevented if you begin wearing sunscreen as early as possible, which is why it is an essential step for everyday skincare. Dr. Green recommends a broad-spectrum sunscreen, such as MGSKINLAB’s Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50, which is a sheer, lightweight, mineral-based sunscreen for full skin protection. Additionally, Dr. Green recommends avoiding tanning beds or sun tanning, as this can damage your skin. If you like the appearance of tanned skin, try turning to spray tan products, which reduce your exposure to harmful UV rays.

What is tech neck?

“Tech neck” refers to the horizontal lines that form when patients consistently tilt their heads down to look at their phones or laptops. Over time, these creases become etched into the skin’s surface, leading to a more aged appearance. Patients can avoid developing tech neck by staying mindful of their posture and trying to look at their technology straight on.

Can sagging neck skin be reversed?

Patients often wonder, “How to fix loose neck skin?” Suppose you are already experiencing sagging or loose skin in the neck area. In that case, many in-office treatments are available at Dr. Green’s Upper East Side New York City dermatology office to tighten the skin. One such treatment is Thermage radiofrequency (RF) laser treatment. Often considered the Gold Standard for skin tightening, Thermage works via the emission of radiofrequency laser energy, which tightens existing collagen and boosts new collagen production for improved skin texture over time. For some patients, Dr. Green may recommend Fraxel laser resurfacing to improve skin texture. With two wavelengths available, 1927 nm and 1550 nm, the Fraxel laser can improve skin tone and skin texture with one laser. To find out which treatment option is best, schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Green.

What is Thermage for sagging neck skin?

Thermage radiofrequency laser for loose skin is Dr. Green’s office’s most popular skin tightening treatment. This FDA-approved skin tightening laser treatment uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to gently heat the inner layer of skin in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. This tissue heating leads to a controlled injury, which boosts the body’s natural collagen and elastin production. The increase in collagen and elastin, two proteins that give the skin structure, leads to an immediate skin tightening. The long-lasting results can remain visible for up to two years after a single treatment session.

What is Microneedling for loose neck skin?

Microneedling is a popular treatment option at Dr. Green’s office that helps to boost new collagen production through controlled micro-injuries. The microneedling handheld device is made up of many tiny surgical-grade needles that pierce the skin to trigger the body’s natural healing response, which triggers new collagen production for smoother, more evenly textured skin. Dr. Green will often combine microneedling with platelet-rich plasma treatment, which is rich in growth factors, to improve the healing process. Most patients require 3-6 treatment sessions for the best results.

How to treat a wrinkled neck

Patients often wonder, “How to reduce neck wrinkles?” The best first step is to schedule an appointment with experienced board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. Dr. Green will start by examining the treatment area and discussing your aesthetic goals before determining the treatment—or series of treatments—that will best meet your needs. If wrinkles are caused by sagging skin, Dr. Green will recommend a skin tightening treatment, such as Thermage radiofrequency laser treatment, laser resurfacing, or microneedling. If creases are caused by volume loss, dermal fillers may be the best treatment option. Patients experiencing dynamic wrinkles on the neck may benefit most from Botox injections.

What is Botox for neck wrinkles?

Botox is an injectable neurotoxin derived from botulinum toxin type A and temporarily paralyzes certain muscles associated with movement, resulting in reduced fine lines and a smoother skin texture. Dynamic fine lines form over time due to repetitive facial movements, commonly affecting the forehead, glabella (between the brows), and crow’s feet. Fine lines and wrinkles can also affect the neck area, making Botox a suitable treatment option for neck skin rejuvenation. The “Nefertiti Lift” is the common name for the popular cosmetic procedure that entails injecting Botox into the platysma bands and along the jawline to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and produce a lifting, rejuvenating effect for the neck area. There is no downtime associated with the treatment and cosmetic effects of Botox tend to last up to four months, with most patients engaging in regular treatments to maintain the best results.

How do fillers work for neck wrinkles?

Dermal fillers are injectable treatments designed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, restore lost volume, and contour the face, neck, and jawline for a non-surgical neck lift. Suppose neck wrinkles are caused by volume loss. In that case, Dr. Green may use hyaluronic acid-based fillers, such as the Juvederm or Restylane family of fillers, or poly-L-lactic acid-based fillers, such as Sculptra. Hyaluronic acid fillers help to eliminate the appearance of wrinkles that form due to volume loss and decreased collagen production. Sculptra injectable treatment can be used to decrease the appearance of skin laxity in the neck by filling in the treatment area and boosting collagen production, which tightens the skin.

Neck Wrinkles FAQ

Why do I have wrinkles on my neck?

As we age, production of the structural proteins collagen and elastin decreases, which can lead to higher skin laxity and increase the appearance of wrinkles on the neck. Several factors can contribute to premature aging, including genetics, sun damage, poor diet, high stress, and not enough water consumption. While aging cannot be prevented, patients can prolong smooth, evenly textured, youthful-looking skin by practicing a consistent skincare routine, always applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher before going outside, eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and reducing stress.

What age does neck skin start to sag?

Neck skin is thinner than many other areas of the face and body, with a naturally lower concentration of collagen and elastin. As such, signs of the natural aging process are often seen in the neck before the face. Fine lines and creases may start appearing on the neck for patients in their 20s and 30s, and will become more pronounced over time. The age at which patients develop neck wrinkles and start to experience sagging skin will vary from person to person depending on genetics and environmental factors.

Why is my neck aging so fast?

Certain lifestyle choices and environmental factors can increase the risk of premature aging in the neck area. One of the most significant risk factors for developing signs of aging, such as decreased skin elasticity, the appearance of wrinkles, and pigmentation, is sun damage from harmful ultraviolet rays. To prevent neck aging from sun damage, Dr. Green recommends always wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Skin aging may also be exacerbated by smoking, high alcohol consumption, and eating a diet high in processed foods and sugars.

How to prevent neck wrinkles

Many patients wonder, “How to keep your neck from aging.” To prevent neck wrinkles from forming, patients can make certain lifestyle adjustments:

• Follow a consistent skincare routine
• Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen before going outside
• Drink plenty of water
• Include retinoids in your skincare routine to increase skin cell turnover
• Apply a vitamin C serum daily to prevent damage from free radicals and improve skin texture
• Maintain a diet rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins C and E
• Avoid sugary or overly processed foods
• Practice stress management
• Sleep 7-8 hours a night so the skin has time for repairs and regeneration

How to prevent a saggy neck

As a result of the natural aging process, collagen production decreases, which leads to volume loss, increased skin laxity, and fine lines and wrinkles along the neck and décolletage area. Starting in your late 20s and early 30s, collagen production diminishes, leading to a crepey, wrinkled appearance to the neck. Over time, damage from the UV rays of the sun and other environmental factors can further increase the prominence of volume loss, which leads to more significant skin laxity and the formation of even deeper wrinkles along the neck and chest. Patients experiencing sagging neck skin can schedule an appointment with expert dermatologist Dr. Michele Green who will determine the treatment plan to improve skin laxity for a firm, tight, youthful-looking neck.

How to reduce neck wrinkles today

As we age, production of the structural proteins collagen and elastin decreases, leading to higher skin laxity and the appearance of neck wrinkles. Neck wrinkles can appear as horizontal creases stretching across the neck or as vertical lines and can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, sun exposure, and lifestyle habits like smoking, drinking, and poor diet. Patients can reduce their risk of developing neck wrinkles prematurely by always wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen, eating a balanced diet, quitting smoking, and practicing a regular skincare routine. If you are already experiencing sagging neck skin or neck wrinkles, Dr. Green has many treatment options available at her Upper East Side New York City dermatology office. Schedule your consultation today to find the treatment plan that will work best for you.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients with the best non-invasive treatment options. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy, creating customized skincare routines and treatment plans that cater to the unique concerns and aesthetic goals of her patients. She is consistently identified as one of New York’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise. Please call us at 212-535-3088 or email our New York City-based office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michele Green to find out how to treat your neck wrinkles today.