Many of us focus on keeping our faces youthful, investing in skincare, facials, and anti-ageing treatments. However, our necks often get overlooked, even though they can show signs of ageing sooner and more dramatically than our faces. If you’ve noticed sagging, wrinkles, or a rougher texture in your neck area, you’re not alone. But why does this happen, and what can be done to slow down or even reverse these signs of ageing? Let’s explore why your neck might be ageing faster than your face and discuss some of the best treatments available today to rejuvenate this delicate area.

Why does the neck age faster than the face?

The skin on the neck is thinner and more delicate than that on the face. It has fewer oil glands and less collagen, which means it’s naturally more prone to dryness, sagging, and wrinkles as we age. Because we often skip sunscreen on our necks or neglect to apply anti-ageing products here, it can be even more vulnerable to damage. Additionally, our necks are constantly moving—whether it’s turning our heads or looking down at screens. This repetitive motion contributes to the formation of lines and creases over time.

Another key factor is that the neck has fewer underlying support structures, such as bone and muscle, than the face. This lack of structural support makes the neck more susceptible to gravity’s effects, causing it to droop and lose firmness. Moreover, our necks often bear the brunt of lifestyle factors such as sun exposure, pollution, and even our posture (think of the modern phenomenon known as “tech neck,” caused by looking down at our devices).

Changes that occur in the neck with age

As we age, several changes occur in the neck region. The skin begins to lose its elasticity, causing it to sag and create the appearance of a “turkey neck” or jowling. Fine lines and wrinkles deepen, and in some cases, horizontal bands form across the neck, known as “necklace lines.” The skin may also develop a crepey texture, which can make the neck appear older and less smooth.

Furthermore, fat distribution changes with age, which can lead to the appearance of a double chin or neck fullness, even in people who are not overweight. The neck muscles, particularly the platysma, can also strengthen over time, contributing to the appearance of vertical bands or cords that run down the neck.

Effective treatments to address neck ageing

Thankfully, there are several advanced treatments available to improve the signs of ageing in the neck. These treatments can help tighten, lift, and rejuvenate the skin, giving the neck a smoother, more youthful appearance.

Sofwave 

Sofwave is a non-invasive ultrasound technology designed to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. By using high-frequency, low-divergence ultrasound energy, Sofwave targets the mid-dermal tissue layer, where collagen fibres are abundant. This promotes natural collagen production, leading to firmer and smoother skin over time. One of the significant benefits of Sofwave is that it requires minimal downtime, making it an excellent choice for people seeking noticeable results without undergoing surgery.

Laser Treatments

Laser treatments, such as fractional laser resurfacing, are highly effective for improving skin texture, tone, and elasticity. By creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin, lasers stimulate the body’s healing processes, leading to new collagen formation and skin rejuvenation. Different types of lasers can be used depending on the specific concerns.

Laser treatments can result in some redness and swelling, but the results are often worth it, offering smoother, firmer skin on the neck.

Polynucleotides

Polynucleotides are an exciting new treatment in the field of anti-ageing. Derived from DNA fragments, these substances are injected into the skin to encourage cellular regeneration and repair. Polynucleotides help improve hydration, elasticity, and texture, making the skin appear more youthful and resilient. They also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and irritation in the neck area. The treatment typically requires a series of injections over several sessions for optimal results, but many patients report noticeable improvements in skin firmness and texture.

Profhilo

Profhilo is a unique injectable treatment that contains a high concentration of hyaluronic acid, which works by stimulating collagen and elastin production. Unlike traditional fillers, Profhilo spreads evenly beneath the skin, providing hydration and firmness without adding volume. It is particularly beneficial for areas like the neck, where the skin needs a boost of elasticity and moisture. After a few sessions, Profhilo can give the neck a smoother, plumper appearance, reducing the crepey texture and softening fine lines. Since it is minimally invasive, it’s a popular choice for those looking for natural results with little to no downtime.

Botox

Botox is well-known for treating facial wrinkles, but it can also be highly effective for neck rejuvenation. When injected strategically into the platysma muscle, Botox can help relax the neck bands that tend to become more prominent with age. This treatment, often referred to as a “Nefertiti lift,” can create a smoother, more youthful neckline without surgery. Botox can also help improve the appearance of necklace lines by reducing the muscle movement that contributes to these creases. Results typically last three to six months, making it a suitable option for those looking for temporary but effective improvement.

Taking care of your neck

While these treatments can significantly improve the appearance of an ageing neck, prevention is always better than cure. Simple daily habits, like applying sunscreen to the neck and wearing broad-spectrum SPF every day, can prevent sun damage that accelerates ageing. Incorporating your neck into your regular skincare routine with hydrating serums, retinoids, and antioxidant-rich creams can also make a noticeable difference over time.

Maintaining good posture can help reduce the development of tech neck lines, and regular moisturisation keeps the skin supple and less prone to dryness and wrinkling. Being consistent with these preventative measures can help prolong the youthful appearance of your neck and ensure the results of any treatments are long-lasting.

If you’d like to learn more about the options, or to discuss what may be right for you, click here to enquire or to book a consultation.