Neck firming: what natural solutions are available?

A sagging neck is characterised by skin that shows folds, wrinkles or a sagging appearance. This is generally the result of the natural ageing process, but can also be exacerbated by factors such as sun exposure, smoking, a poor diet or a lack of hydration. The skin on the neck is particularly sensitive, as it is thinner and has fewer sebaceous glands than the skin on other parts of the body. Consequently, it is more likely to show signs of premature skin ageing.

The neck is particularly prone to sagging due to the thinness of the skin and its constant exposure to environmental stressors and repetitive neck movements. As such, several factors contribute to its loss of firmness over the years:

Age

Age remains one of the main factors contributing to sagging skin. Over the years, the skin naturally produces less collagen and elastin, two components that contribute to its firmness and elasticity. As a result, it can become thinner, less toned and more prone to wrinkles. The neck is often one of the first areas where these changes become visible.

Sun exposure

Exposure to UV rays can also accelerate skin ageing. This gradually weakens the skin’s structures that keep it firm and supple. As the neck is often exposed but doesn’t receive as much attention as the face, it can be particularly affected. So remember to extend your sun protection down to your neck when you’re out in the sun.

Smoking

Smoking can also contribute to premature skin ageing. In particular, it is linked to the appearance of wrinkles and changes in collagen metabolism, which can lead to a loss of firmness in the neck over time.

A healthy lifestyle

Diet and hydration play a part in the skin’s overall appearance, but they are not solely responsible for sagging in the neck. In fact, a varied and balanced diet provides the skin with the nutrients it needs, whilst staying well-hydrated helps to maintain its suppleness and comfort. These healthy habits can therefore help to keep the skin firmer as the years go by.

Genetic factors

Finally, some people are simply more prone than others to developing a wrinkled neck. Genetics, skin structure and even the way fat is naturally distributed throughout the body can all influence the appearance of the neck. It is therefore not uncommon for two people of the same age to have quite different degrees of sagging skin.

Good to know: by understanding these factors, you’ll be better equipped to take preventative measures and incorporate appropriate skincare into your wellness routine to maintain your neck’s firmness and youthful appearance.

As we age, the neck can gradually change in appearance. The skin becomes less firm, wrinkles become more pronounced and certain areas may lose their smooth appearance. These changes vary from person to person, but several signs are common:

• Sagging skin: a lack of firmness can lead to folds and wrinkles, whether horizontal or vertical. Some remain fairly subtle, whilst others become deeper over the years

• More visible neck wrinkles: the familiar horizontal lines may have been present for a long time and become more pronounced with age. Repeated neck movements can also make them more apparent

• Vertical lines: small vertical lines may appear on the sides or in the centre of the neck. These sometimes become more visible as the skin loses its firmness

• Thinner skin: over the years, the skin on the neck can become thinner and lose some of its elasticity. It then appears more delicate, and minor imperfections become more noticeable

• Less elastic skin: it finds it harder to return to its original appearance after being stretched. This is one of the reasons why the neck can take on a creased or ‘wrinkled’ appearance

• Pigment spots: brown spots may appear over time, particularly after years of sun exposure. They can vary in number, be dark or widespread

• A double chin: excess fat under the chin can alter the contour of the neck and make the facial oval less defined. Age can be a factor, but genetics, body type, weight fluctuations and the natural distribution of fat also play a significant role

• A less defined facial contour: when the tissues begin to sag, the boundary between the chin and the neck can sometimes become less distinct. The lower part of the face may then appear less defined

• Drier, less smooth skin: the neck can also become drier over the years. The skin then loses its supple, smooth appearance, which can accentuate fine lines and a wrinkled appearance.

What’s the best way to firm and rejuvenate your neck on a daily basis? Start a comprehensive, holistic routine tailored to your skin’s needs:

Step 1 – CLEANSE my skin

Oat & Phytosterols Make-up Removing Balm

A skincare formula that deeply cleanses the skin, removing make-up, impurities and pollution whilst respecting the hydrolipidic film. Enriched with biomimetic active ingredients and soothing oat oil, it leaves the skin feeling perfectly comfortable, without any greasy residue.

Recommended use: morning and evening, massage onto dry skin, moisten and then rinse with clean water.

Please note: this product has a shelf life of 9 months after opening and should be kept away from heat. Small droplets of oil may temporarily appear on the surface if exposed to heat, but this does not affect its quality.

Discover the Oat & Phytosterols Cleansing Balm

Step 2 – IDENTIFY my specific concern

AA Collagen Serum 1.5%

Containing a 1.5% concentrate of vegan collagen and hyaluronic acid, this treatment has been clinically proven to reduce wrinkle depth by 19%*. Its biomimetic human collagen complex penetrates the deep layers of the epidermis, thanks to the low molecular weight of the peptides and amino acids, to redensify, plump and strengthen the skin’s structure.

Recommended use: morning and evening, apply a few drops of serum to clean skin all over the face and neck.

*Antera 3D® tested under dermatological supervision, 2 applications per day, on 20 volunteers over 28 days

Please note : this product has a shelf life of 9 months after opening; store away from heat.

Discover the 1.5% AA Collagen Serum

Step 3 – MOISTURISE my skin

Rich Vegan Collagen & Spilanthes Cream

Its proven-effective formula targets the 8 signs of ageing. Spilanthes extract, with its plant-based ‘Botox’-like effect, and vegan collagen help to smooth, correct and prevent wrinkles and fine lines whilst intensely nourishing the skin.

Recommended use : morning and evening, apply to the entire face and neck.

Please note: this product has a shelf life of 9 months after opening; store away from heat and light.

Discover the Vegan Collagen & Spilanthes Rich Cream

Step 4 – ACTING FROM THE INSIDE – My dietary supplement

Anti-Ageing Skin Complex – Food supplement – 60 capsules

This supplement combines a patented active ingredient – Ceramosides™, a concentrate of wheat-derived ceramides whose effectiveness in improving skin firmness and elasticity has been clinically proven – with a blend of borage and evening primrose oils, rich in fatty acids that help maintain the skin’s elasticity.

Recommended use : take two capsules a day, with a glass of water.

Warning: store this product away from light, heat and moisture. Adhere to the recommended daily intake and keep out of reach of young children. For adult use only; not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women; excessive consumption may have a laxative effect.

Discover the Anti-Ageing Skin Complex 

To combat the natural sagging of the neck, there are several simple steps you can take every day: 

1. Moisturise your skin every day: your neck deserves the same care as your face. Apply a cream or moisturiser suited to your skin type every day, working it down to your cleavage. Formulas containing hyaluronic acid can help maintain good hydration. Drinking enough water and eating a varied diet also contribute to good overall skin health.

2. Protecting your skin from the sun : the sun is one of the main causes of premature skin ageing. And yet, we tend to think much more about protecting our face than our neck! So apply a broad-spectrum sun cream, ideally with an SPF of at least 30 or even SPF 50 during periods of intense exposure, to your neck and cleavage. Reapply during prolonged exposure and avoid spending too much time in the sun wherever possible.

3. Adopt a healthy lifestyle: a varied diet, rich in fruit, vegetables, protein and healthy fats, provides the skin with the nutrients it needs. Regular physical activity, a restful night’s sleep and giving up smoking are also good habits for looking after your skin. As for alcohol and stress, the key is to avoid excess and find a balance in daily life.

4. Looking after your neck muscles: Strengthening exercises do not directly tighten the skin, but they can help maintain good muscle tone and improve posture. Gentle, regular exercise can therefore form a beneficial part of your overall lifestyle, particularly if you spend a lot of time in front of a screen.

5. Focus on consistency: simple skincare routines, tailored to your skin type and applied regularly, will be easier to stick to than a succession of complicated products. No cream can completely prevent age-related sagging, but a good skincare routine can help keep your skin more supple, comfortable and healthy as the years go by.

By adopting this holistic approach, you can really help restore a smoother, younger and firmer appearance to your neck.

The advice provided in this article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of a healthcare professional. Before applying a new product to your neck, test it on a small area of skin to check that you tolerate it well. If you experience redness, itching or irritation, stop using it. Opt for gentle skincare products and avoid overly vigorous massages or repetitive movements that could irritate the skin. Also remember to moisturise your skin regularly with suitable products, without using too many different products if you have sensitive skin. If you have a specific skin condition, very reactive skin or any doubts whatsoever about using a product, seek advice from a doctor or a dermatologist. 

To prevent sagging and support the skin as it ages, it’s best to adopt a holistic and consistent approach. The most important thing is to ensure your skin is well hydrated, to apply suitable skincare products regularly, and to protect your skin from UV rays every day. In addition, a few facial exercises can help maintain the tone of the muscles in your face and neck.

After graduating from ESCP Business School in 2020, Louise began her career as a writer in 2021. Today, she writes a newsletter where she shares cultural recommendations and more personal articles, such as dating apps, therapy, and career guidance. She also writes for the media, brands and agencies on subjects such as well-being, mental health, culture, and society.