If you think neck creams are unnecessary or figure your regular facial moisturizer can do the job, you may not be aware of how far cream formulations have come to help address signs of aging on the neck. The neck, like your hands and the skin around your eyes, is thinner than most other areas of your face. For this reason, and because it is often as exposed to the elements as your face, but doesn’t receive similar protection, your neck may show fine lines, wrinkles, and areas of discoloration faster.
A neck cream is specifically formulated to deliver ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, and even SPF, but in concentrations that are effective to the neck and not irritating. Don’t hold out any longer — consider one of these three popular skin creams, which come in a number of different price points and are backed by hundreds and thousands of reviews.
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Skinceuticals Tripeptide-R Neck Repair, $136
If you attempt to apply your regular retinol to your neck you may find that it is far too harsh for this sensitive area and can even result in dermatitis and rashes. But this luscious cream by Skinceuticals contains the perfect amount of retinol to help boost collagen and elastin in the skin without compromising your skin barrier. It contains 0.2% pure, slow-release retinol, 2.5% tripeptide concentrate, and 5.0% glaucine complex — all of which work to help tighten skin and minimize fine lines and wrinkles.
It’s expensive, that’s true. But many reviewers say a little goes a long way and that’s well worth the money.
According to one reviewer: “So far the product has worked marvelously. No burning or itching nor any adverse reactions. I wish I had taken before images! The fine lines are not so apparent anymore…I’m not reaching out for a turtle neck to wear. I am on week 2 of 2x a week use. Next week I’ll use it 3x a week.”
You can buy this cream at Skinceuticals.
Paula’s Choice Resist Intensive Repair Cream, $38
You can spend three figures on a neck cream and it may be extraordinary, but not everyone has the funds or desire to do so, and there are great adorable options, too. This popular cream from Paula’s Choice contains a low-strength 0.01% retinol concentration, as well as peptides and antioxidants. Its goal is to soften your skin and build more collagen to eliminate the look of deep lines and wrinkles.
This cream can also be used as an all-over facial cream, but keep in mind that it already contains some retinol, in case you want to layer it over a higher strength prescription retinol.
Many reviewers with sensitive skin have nothing but glowing things to write about this cream. One wrote: “I only used retinol one other brand but it was ONLY retinol and although it was meant to be gentle, my skin was too sensitive to handle it. This is a beautiful cream, especially for me, a beginner with sensitive skin. It's moisturising and soothing and you wake up and see the difference. I only use it two or three times a week (I alternative with each night 2% BHA) but it's amazing.”
You can buy this cream at Paula’s Choice.
RoC Multi Correxion Even Tone + Lift Chest, Neck & Face Cream, $25
This affordable cream is a lightweight option that’s ideal for your face, chest, and neck. It doesn’t contain retinol, but it does contain hydrating shea butter, vitamin E, and protective SPF 30 — so you can use it in the morning. Incorporating retinol into your skincare routine is fantastic for building collagen and exfoliation, but it’s crucial to protect your neck with a broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent future damage.
One reviewer had this to say: “While I’ve only been using this product for 3 days…it makes my neck feel better than anything I’ve ever used on my neck. I feel like it looks better since I’ve been applying this as well. Time will tell as it’s only been a few days.”
You can buy this cream on Amazon.
