The neck is one of the first areas to show signs of aging, and one of the easiest areas to leave out of your skin care routine. From horizontal lines, often referred to as “tech neck,” sun damage, creepiness, and loss of elasticity, the thin skin under your chin can benefit from a little extra attention. Good news: Dermatologists say you don’t usually need a completely separate product line.

In this article, two dermatologists explain how neck skin differs, when to start taking care of it, and which products and treatments are worth considering.

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Dr. Deborah Longwill is a board-certified dermatologist in Miami. Dr. Ellen Cox is a board-certified dermatologist in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Is neck skin care necessary on a regular basis?

“That’s right. The neck is one of the first areas to show signs of aging because it has thinner skin, fewer oil glands, and constant sun exposure,” says Miami dermatologist Dr. Deborah Longwill. Dr. Sue Ellen Cox, a dermatologist in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, agrees that it’s worth paying some attention to this area. However, neither expert believes that you necessarily need a separate set of products from those you use on your face.

You can also use facial products on your neck

“We live in an age of overconsumption, where more is considered better, but for most people, extending facial skin care to the neck and chest is enough,” says Dr. Cox. Dr. Longwill agreed, noting that one of the biggest mistakes she sees is stopping the product at the jawline.

There is one caveat. The skin on the neck is thinner and more delicate than the skin on the face. “We recommend introducing active ingredients, such as retinoids, gradually,” says Dr. Cox.

Neck-specific formulas are also an option, especially if the neck area is your main concern. “There are specialized neck creams, and many of them are good,” says Dr. Cox, who often recommends them if the neck is a primary concern or if the patient is being treated in the office.

When should you start taking care of your neck?

“Prevention is always easier than correction, so we recommend starting taking care of your neck in your mid-20s by making sunscreen and moisturizing part of your daily routine,” says Dr. Longwill. Dr. Cox agrees that your 20s is a wise time to start, especially since heavy phone use can make horizontal lines on your neck more noticeable.

Essential steps for neck skin care

“Sunscreen is the most important step because the neck receives significant UV exposure but is often overlooked. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen should be non-negotiable,” says Dr. Cox. Dr. Longwill agrees that consistent use of sunscreen makes the biggest difference over time.

Beyond SPF, what’s important is very simple. “Cleanse in the morning, apply an antioxidant like vitamin C, moisturize, and use a retinoid at night if your skin can tolerate it,” says Dr. Longwill. Those looking to enhance their routine may also consider growth factors, peptides, and DNA repair enzymes. These may “help support collagen production and improve skin quality,” says Dr. Longwill.

If your signs of aging are more advanced, in-office treatment may provide significant improvement. Dr. Longwill lists microneedling, laser resurfacing, and biostimulating injectables as options to discuss with a qualified health care provider.

best skin care products for your neck

“The best product depends on what you’re trying to address, whether it’s sun damage, fine lines, or loss of firmness,” says Dr. Cox. Keep your main concerns in mind and consider adding one of these targeted formulas to your routine.

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For patients looking for extra support beyond their standard skin care routine, Dr. Cox often recommends Defenage PRO 6-Week Perfection Neck Cream. This formula is also a favorite among several dermatology experts due to its ability to strengthen delicate neck skin.

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This retinol and peptide formula is designed to address both early and advanced signs of neck aging, such as horizontal lines, wrinkles, and uneven tone. The lightweight, gel-like texture makes it easy to incorporate into your nighttime routine. Use alone or in conjunction with dermatologist-recommended in-office treatments.

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Developed by dermatologist Dr. Muneeb Shah, this recently launched treatment uses encapsulated retinaldehyde, a retinoid that is more efficiently converted within the skin than traditional retinol. The Twist-Up Stick glides directly over the face, neck and chest, minimizing drips and product waste while making it easy to incorporate into your nighttime routine.

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Dr. Cox also recommends this neck-specific formula for anyone looking to improve firmness and elasticity. She says the product is designed for the delicate skin of the neck and is supported by clinical data showing improvements in texture and discomfort.

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Nécessaire takes a minimalist, peptide-focused approach with this formula. A concentrated blend of five peptides is designed to support your skin’s natural collagen production and improve its appearance. According to the brand’s four-week consumer survey, 92% of participants said their necks felt firmer, and 88% noticed an improvement in the appearance of their neckline.

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The cooling rollerball applicator is what sets this serum apart, offering a quick, mess-free way to massage the formula into your skin. The brand also reports clinical improvement in the appearance of horizontal lines, sagging, and uneven texture in the neck with twice-daily use.

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U Beauty brings its signature SIREN capsule technology to the neck and chest with this intensive treatment. Creates an immediate blurring effect and improves firmness and uneven tone with continued use.

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Developed with input from dermatologists and plastic surgeons, this clear glide-on stick combines RoC’s signature retinol with antioxidants and firming THPE. According to the brand, it provides an immediate tightening effect and helps improve firmness over time. Designed for the face, neck, chest, and back of the hands, it offers an easy and budget-friendly way to incorporate retinol and firming ingredients into your daily life.

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A longtime favorite of dermatologists, this lightweight lotion features Alastin’s patented TriHex technology, designed to support the removal of damaged collagen and elastin while promoting the production of new fibers. Suitable for daily use for a variety of skin types, it is also commonly recommended for home use to supplement neck tightening procedures.

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Based on Neocutis’ wound healing research, this cream is formulated to resurface, moisturize and brighten the neck and chest. This formula supports type I, III, and VII collagen and elastin production, making it a powerful choice for combating blemishes and uneven tone. Because it contains glycolic acid, it’s best used at night, and during the day it’s best combined with an avid sunscreen.

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Dr. Longwill applies this stem cell serum to both the face and neck as part of his daily regimen. “It supports collagen production and improves overall skin quality,” she says.