What is the best way to tighten loose skin on the neck without surgery?
27 December 2024
By Dr Sophie Shotter

Neck Tightening Treatments, London
As we age, it’s no secret that our skin begins to lose its elasticity. While many people focus their skincare efforts on their face, the neck is often overlooked—until it starts to show signs of ageing. The delicate skin on the neck is particularly prone to sagging and wrinkling, leaving many of us searching for ways to restore its youthful appearance. If you’re wondering how to tighten loose skin on the neck without surgery, you’re not alone. Here, we’ll explore the reasons behind neck ageing, the non-surgical treatments that can improve the area, and when surgery might be worth considering.
Why does the neck age faster?
The skin on the neck is thinner than on other parts of the body and contains less collagen and elastin—two proteins responsible for keeping skin firm and plump. Over time, the natural ageing process, combined with lifestyle factors such as sun exposure, smoking, and even constant tech use (hello, “tech neck”), can accelerate sagging and the appearance of fine lines.
Additionally, the neck area tends to lose fat as we age, causing the skin to appear loose and crepey. For some, genetics play a significant role—if your parents experienced noticeable neck ageing, chances are you might too.
Can you tighten loose neck skin without surgery?
The short answer is yes—but with some caveats. While non-surgical treatments can’t completely replicate the results of surgery, they can make a significant difference in improving the appearance of the neck. Here are some of the most effective non-surgical options in my opinion:
Sofwave
If you’re looking for a cutting-edge treatment that delivers results, Sofwave is a fantastic option. It uses ultrasound technology to target the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and tightening the area. One of the key benefits of Sofwave is its minimal downtime—you can walk out of the clinic and return to your routine without any disruption. It’s especially effective for early signs of sagging and can significantly improve the texture and firmness of the skin.
Regenerative treatments
For those who want to enhance the quality of their skin, regenerative treatments are a game-changer. These treatments work by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, improving hydration, and restoring a youthful glow.
Profhilo
Known as a “skin booster,” Profhilo is injected into the skin to improve its elasticity and hydration. It’s not a lifting treatment per se, but it’s excellent for enhancing the overall appearance of the neck.
Biostimulators
Polynucleotides
These treatments focus on skin regeneration at a cellular level. By repairing damaged tissue and boosting cell turnover, polynucleotides help to create a firmer, healthier appearance.
While these treatments won’t lift excessively loose skin, they can improve its texture, hydration, and overall appearance.
Laser
Fractional laser treatment is an advanced skin rejuvenation technology that can effectively improve the appearance of loose skin on the neck. By delivering laser energy in a controlled, grid-like pattern, fractional lasers create micro-injuries in the skin’s surface. These micro-injuries trigger the body’s natural healing response, stimulating collagen and elastin production in the treated areas. Over time, this results in firmer, smoother, and more elastic skin. The treatment is particularly effective for reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and mild skin laxity. With minimal downtime and noticeable improvements after a series of sessions, fractional laser is a popular non-surgical option for rejuvenating the neck and restoring a youthful appearance.
Skincare and lifestyle
Don’t underestimate the power of good skincare and healthy habits. Retinoids, vitamin C serums, and SPF can help protect and rejuvenate the neck area over time. Staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking will also go a long way in keeping the skin on your neck looking its best.
When is surgery the best option?
Despite the advances in non-surgical treatments, there are cases where surgery might be the most effective choice. If you have significant laxity or excess skin on the neck, procedures like a neck lift can deliver dramatic results that non-surgical options simply can’t achieve.
The decision to undergo surgery is highly personal, and it’s important to consult with a qualified professional to explore all your options. For some, a combination approach—such as using non-surgical treatments to enhance the results of surgery—can be ideal.
Finding the right approach for you
When it comes to tightening loose skin on the neck, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Sofwave and regenerative treatments like Profhilo, biostimulators, and polynucleotides are fantastic for improving the overall quality of the skin and can make a noticeable difference. However, if the laxity is severe, surgery will likely be the best option.
Ultimately, the right treatment plan depends on your individual goals and the extent of ageing in the area. Consulting with an experienced practitioner is the best way to determine what’s right for you. Whether you opt for cutting-edge technology, regenerative injectables, or even surgical intervention, the good news is that there are more options than ever to help you look and feel your best.
