Your neck may be an afterthought when it comes to what you focus on in skincare. But the simple act of remembering your neck is part of your face and benefits from the same skincare routine can make a difference in your overall appearance. But how important is neck skincare? And are there even any products out there that can actually improve this region, known for notoriously thin skin that shows signs of aging relatively fast? Karen Whitney, a PA-C at Advanced Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center in Cincinnati, tells us the best neck cream to take years off your appearance.
Can a neck cream really help?
In one word: yes — Whitney says neck creams can be powerful in helping to prevent the signs of aging. “Using science-based skin care will work gradually to rejuvenate aged and sun-damaged skin on the delicate neck, and protect against future aging,” Whitney said. “Gentle cleansing to avoid stripping protective oils on this area is where it all starts. Just as with the face, your cleanser should be designed to remove daily make-up and grime gently, and daily use of sunblock is of utmost importance. In addition, essential skin care products fall into four categories: topical retinols, antioxidants, collagen stimulators, and moisturizers. In my daily practice, I return again and again to one product line — Alastin.”
How can retinol help?
The one gold standard ingredient you’ll continually encounter in skincare also works wonders for your neck: retinol. This vitamin A derivative helps turn over skin cells faster to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while improving the texture and brightness of skin.
“Alastin Renewal Retinol comes as 0.25 and 0.5 strengths, which is important because even the most hardy retinol user will find the neck to be extra sensitive to this anti-aging ingredient,” Whitney said. “This lipid encapsulated retinol is partnered with ingredients to hydrate and calm the skin, as well as 2 potent antioxidants for added protection. As with facial retinol, start with a low dose and frequency and gradually increase as tolerated.”
Whitney also highly recommends Alastin Restorative Neck Complex. “Alastin’s Restorative line is based on a key ingredient which is a blend of TriHex peptides that work to clear out damaged collagen while stimulating new elastin and collagen,” Whitney said. “Skin biopsies are provided that demonstrate this effect. The peptides are combined with several powerful antioxidants to address redness, pigmentation, increase hyaluronic acid levels, and restore hydration, as well as supporting elasticity and firmness. Provided in a moisturizing carrier cream, this product meets all the criteria for an effective neck cream.”
Can you use a regular moisturizer on your neck?
Any moisturizer is better than nothing at all on your neck, Whitney said. “[But] Alastin Restorative Neck Cream addresses the fact that the neck skin does not produce oil and becomes dehydrated faster than facial skin,” Whitney said. “As with all skin care, combining the appropriate products with skin treatments such as microneedling, radio frequency, and lasers will combine for a synergistic effect and better results.”
And, lastly, don’t forget to protect your neck AND face with sunscreen every single morning (especially when you are incorporating a retinol into your nightly routine).
