Are you afraid of developing a sagging and wrinkled “turkey neck” as you age? Or what about the dreaded “tech neck,” which is characterized by permanent creases that form when straining to use digital devices?
Thankfully, just because aging is inevitable doesn’t mean developing an unsightly neck is. While there are a number of things working against your neck—from its incredibly delicate skin to its lack of sebaceous glands to excessive sun exposure to mere gravity—there are creams that can combat them all.
Whether you want to prevent sagging and wrinkles as you age or reverse damage that’s already occurred, there’s a neck cream that will meet your needs. To help you find the perfect formula for your cosmetic goals, we’ve compiled the best neck creams available today. Read on to explore our top picks and find the one that’s right for you!
- What to Consider Before Buying a Neck Cream
- Top 10 Best Neck Creams 2024
- 1. Best Overall Neck Cream: LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream
- 2. Best Premium Neck Cream: RoC Multi Correxion 5-in-1 Cream
- 3. Best Budget Neck Cream: InstaNatural Retinol Moisturizer
- 4. Best Neck Cream With SPF: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer With Sunscreen
- 5. Best Neck Cream With Accelerated Results: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream
- 6. Best Natural Neck Cream: Kleem Organics Advanced Retinol Moisturizer
- 7. Best Double-Chin Reducing Neck Cream: ACTIV Science Triple Firming Neck Cream
- 8. Best Retinol-Free Neck Cream: Desert Beauty Neck & Décolleté Peptide Cream
- 9. Best Neck Cream for Sensitive Skin: L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Anti-Wrinkle & Firming Cream
- 10. Best Organic Neck Cream: Maryann Organics Collagen Day & Night Anti-Aging Cream
- A Comprehensive Guide to Neck Creams
- Find the Right Neck Cream for You
What to Consider Before Buying a Neck Cream
If you’ve never used a neck cream before—or you’ve been using one for a while but you’re not getting the results you want—it’s wise to familiarize yourself with the different kinds of products on the market today. Understanding what makes each formula unique will ensure you buy the best one for your particular needs.
Skin Type
Because it’s so thin—only slightly thicker than the eyelids, in fact—the skin on your neck is incredibly delicate. That means if your skin is sensitive in general, your neck will undoubtedly need a little extra TLC. Should this be the case, look for a cream that’s formulated specifically for people with sensitive skin, like L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Anti-Wrinkle & Firming Cream.
If, on the other hand, your neck is already showing signs of age, you’ll get the most dramatic results from a cream that’s been formulated for mature skin, like Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer With Sunscreen. Other skin types include dry, oily, combination, and normal, and we’ve considered all of them when compiling our list. If you’re unsure what your skin type is, review our handy guide.
Scent
For optimal results, it’s typically advisable to apply neck cream twice a day: once in the morning and then again before bed. As such, you’ll want to choose a product that smells nice. While the scent shouldn’t linger until your next shower like that of perfume, it may be noticeable for some time after application, especially if you’re sensitive to fragrances. Most of the products on our list are only lightly scented, but if you prefer a cream with no fragrance whatsoever, try InstaNatural Retinol Moisturizer.
Sun Protection
Limiting sun exposure is a must for preventing fine lines and wrinkles. If you want to keep your beauty routine simple, look for a neck cream that has a sun protection factor of at least 30, like RoC Multi Correxion 5-in-1 Cream. Keep in mind, however, that some of the most powerful tightening and lifting formulas cannot accommodate SPF. Therefore, their manufacturers recommend applying an SPF lotion in addition to the cream.
Primary Purpose
Are you hoping to prevent sagging, or do you want to reverse damage that’s already occurred? Some neck creams, like Maryann Organics Collagen Day & Night Anti-Aging Cream, are ideal for younger people who hope to take a proactive approach to combatting aging. Others, like Desert Beauty’s Neck & Décolleté Peptide Cream, are suitable for those who need to lift and tighten skin that’s no longer firm and flawless.
Formula
The best formula for you will ultimately depend on your skin type and cosmetic goals. As such, it’s wise to determine both before choosing a neck cream.
Different active ingredients serve different purposes. If you live in an especially dry climate, for example, you may want a neck cream that’s deeply moisturizing, like LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream. If, on the other hand, you have oily skin, you’ll need a non-greasy, non-comedogenic product, like RoC Multi Correxion 5-in-1 Cream.
And if your primary concern is erasing wrinkles, you’ll need a cream with filling and plumping features, like Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream. If, on the other hand, you need to address sagging, you’ll want a product that lifts and tightens, like ACTIV Science Triple Firming Neck Cream.
Capacity
The only way to get results from applying neck cream is by doing so diligently day after day. Therefore, you’ll want to buy a product that’s going to last. Thankfully, lightweight formulas that spread easily demand no more than a small dab to cover the entire neck area. That means even the smallest jars can last for weeks.
When comparing neck creams, consider how big the jar is and how much you’ll likely use. Ideally, you want a product that will last at least a month before you need to restock your medicine cabinet or bathroom vanity.
Efficacy
How soon are you hoping to see results? While some neck creams will yield a noticeable difference in a matter of weeks, others take a month or more of consistent use to restore a youthful glow.
If you have a special event right around the corner, you may want to opt for one of the more potent formulas, like Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream, which can prompt a dramatic reduction in fine lines and wrinkles in just one week. If you want something gentler, on the other hand, and you’re not necessarily in a rush, Maryann Organics Collagen Day & Night Anti-Aging Cream is a great choice, especially for those who have sensitive skin that’s prone to dryness and irritation.
Now that you know what to consider when evaluating neck creams, check out the best products available today!
Top 10 Best Neck Creams 2024
1. Best Overall Neck Cream: LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Skin Type: All
- Scent: Fresh
- Sun Protection: None
- Primary Purpose: Preventive & Reversive
Formula
LilyAna’s cream made the top of our list because its maximum-strength retinol formula can erase fine lines and wrinkles while tightening and lifting sagging skin. In other words, it can help you both achieve and maintain smooth, supple, and flawless skin.
To prevent the dryness and irritation that 2.5% pure retinol can trigger, the manufacturer made sure to include soothing ingredients with powerful moisturizing properties, like aloe, vitamin E, green tea, jojoba oil, and shea butter.
This potent cream’s precise ratio of ingredients makes for a lightweight lotion with no oily residue that people with all skin types—including sensitive, acne-prone, oily, dry, and mature—can feel good about using. What’s more, you’re doing your part for all your furry friends when you opt for this cream because they don’t test on animals.
Capacity
For optimal results, you should apply this cream twice a day. Sold in containers that hold 1.7 ounces, each unit typically lasts for six to eight weeks.
Efficacy
With its powerful formula, LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream combats the skin’s five visible signs of aging: fine lines, wrinkles, rough texture, sagging, and uneven skin tone. Results will vary, but if you apply it consistently as instructed, you can expect to see smoother and tighter skin after just two weeks of twice-daily use.
Keep in mind, however, that because of its maximum-strength formula, people with sensitive skin may experience dryness or irritation if they don’t work up to twice daily applications gradually. If you have sensitive skin, you can learn more about starting a retinol regimen here. Or, if you don’t need rapid results, you can opt for a retinol-free cream, like Desert Beauty Neck & Décolleté Peptide Cream.
Pros
- Deeply moisturizing
- Clinically proven to combat the visible signs of aging
- Cruelty-Free
Cons
- No SPF
- May irritate sensitive skin
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Skin Type: Dry
- Scent: Scented
- Sun Protection: SPF 30
- Primary Purpose: Reversive
Formula
Formulated with dry skin in mind, this face, neck, and chest cream provides both intense hydration and UV protection. Its active ingredient, RoC’s proprietary Hexyl-R Complex, contains a naturally occurring lipid that actually reverses the visible signs of aging.
Backed by seven years of research and countless clinical studies, this cream can restore a youthful glow by combatting sagging, discoloration, dark circles, dryness, dullness, and wrinkles. Despite its anti-aging potency, however, its non-greasy and non-comedogenic formula is gentle enough for daily use on even the driest of skin.
If your skin also happens to be sensitive, though, you may want to opt for a product like L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Anti-Wrinkle & Firming Cream, which is less likely to cause itchiness and irritation. Likewise, this cream may not be a suitable option for those who dislike strong scents, as it has a noticeable fragrance that lingers. If you’d prefer an unscented neck cream, try ACTIV Science Triple Firming Neck Cream instead.
Capacity
Sold in jars that hold 1.7 ounces, RoC’s Multi Correxion cream can last for a couple of months. Naturally, you’ll run out faster if you use it on your face and chest in addition to your neck; however, even with generous applications daily, the jar should last for two to three months.
Efficacy
Thanks to RoC’s Hexyl-R Complex, this cream has been clinically proven to restore radiant skin after just four weeks of regular use. To see dramatic results as quickly as possible, apply once in the morning and once before bed.
Pros
- Clinically proven to combat the visible signs of aging
- Versatile
- Protects the skin from UV damage
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin
- Strong scent that lingers
3. Best Budget Neck Cream: InstaNatural Retinol Moisturizer
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Skin Type: All
- Scent: Fragrance-Free
- Sun Protection: None
- Primary Purpose: Preventive & Reversive
Formula
Whether you have sensitive, dry, oily, or combination skin, you can use InstaNatural’s Retinol Moisturizer with confidence. This versatile formula combines powerful anti-aging agents like vitamin A, vitamin C, and green tea with natural moisturizers like hyaluronic acid and safflower oil. In addition to reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, its proprietary blend of quality ingredients prevents breakouts and reverses sun damage.
This cream is potent enough for those who want the robust power of retinol but gentle enough for daily use. In fact, it’s ideal for first-time retinol users who may not want to use a maximum strength product from day one. Because it doesn’t include SPF, though, it should be accompanied by sunscreen. Or, if you don’t want to apply two separate products to ensure adequate UV protection, consider a neck cream that includes SPF, like Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer With Sunscreen.
Capacity
Sold in bottles that hold 3.4 ounces, this product is twice as large as most of its competitors. If you only use it on your neck—the manufacturer recommends applying it once a day, before bed—it should last for four to six months.
Efficacy
Results vary, but many users see a noticeable improvement in their skin within just two weeks. For optimal efficacy, rub a small dab in a circular motion on clean, dry skin just before going to bed. Follow with your favorite moisturizing serum, and make sure to apply a product with SPF during the daytime. Retinol stimulates the production of new skin cells, which are more prone to sun damage. You can learn more about retinol’s impact on the skin in our full buyer guide.
Pros
- Costs a fraction of the price of other neck creams
- Fragrance-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Clinically proven to combat the visible signs of aging
Cons
- No SPF
- Demands additional products for optimal results
4. Best Neck Cream With SPF: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer With Sunscreen
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Skin Type: Mature
- Scent: Scented
- Sun Protection: SPF 30
- Primary Purpose: Reversive
Formula
Formulated with mature skin in mind, Neutrogena’s Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer lives up to its name. Sold in a convenient pump bottle that delivers the perfect-sized dab for your entire neck every time, this cream contains both retinol and SPF, making it ideal for men and women who want to simplify their beauty routine.
Other ingredients include hyaluronic acid and glucose complex. The former plumps the skin, while the latter strengthens the skin barrier by boosting the cell regeneration prompted by retinol.
With consistent use, this clinically proven anti-aging cream will reduce the appearance of stubborn creases while evening out overall skin tone. A fast-acting formula, it contains a modified form of retinol, called accelerated Retinol SA, which has additional ingredients that restore smooth, healthy skin. What’s more, its sun protection factor will prevent further damage from UV exposure.
Capacity
This neck cream is sold in a 1-ounce pump bottle. For optimal results, apply a generous dollop about 15 minutes before sun exposure, and then reapply every two hours for as long as you’re outside. If you’ll be swimming or sweating, supplement with a waterproof sunscreen.
Naturally, if you spend a lot of time outside, you’ll need to reorder this product fairly often. To extend its longevity, supplement with sunscreen, and use this cream primarily as a wrinkle reducer.
Applied once daily to the neck, each unit should last for two to four weeks. If you always apply sunscreen as part of your beauty regimen and you want your neck cream to last a bit longer, try Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream, which contains a similar formula minus the SPF and comes in a larger container.
Efficacy
As with all the products on this list, results will vary. At the end of the day, a variety of factors will determine just how quickly users notice a visible improvement in their skin. Generally speaking, though, this particular cream boasts some of the fastest results because of its unique blend of accelerated retinol, hyaluronic acid, and glucose complex. With diligent daily applications, you may notice softer, smother, and more supple skin after just one week.
Pros
- Fast-acting
- Protects the skin from UV damage
- Clinically proven to combat the visible signs of aging
Cons
- Small quantity may not last long
- Cannot withstand sweat or water
5. Best Neck Cream With Accelerated Results: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Skin Type: Mature
- Scent: Scented
- Sun Protection: None
- Primary Purpose: Reversive
Formula
This retinol-based cream contains Neutrogena’s proprietary blend of accelerated ingredients to deliver fast results. For noticeably firmer, younger-looking skin in just one week, there’s no better option.
A small dab of this rich moisturizer is all you need to envelope your entire neck in a dewy cream that gets to work immediately. Containing Neutrogena’s highest concentration of accelerated Retinol SA, not to mention hyaluronic acid and glucose complex, this formula prompts the rapid regeneration of skin cells, thereby stopping—and even reversing—wrinkles in their tracks.
Suitable for mature skin on the face and neck, this product plumps and replenishes from day one. Because its retinol-based formula is so powerful, though, those who are prone to irritation are advised to incorporate it into their routine gradually. Start with a light application every other day to prevent redness, dryness, and irritation. If your skin still feels good after a week or two, increase the frequency to once daily applications.
Capacity
Sold in a jar that holds 1.7 ounces, this nourishing face and neck cream can last for three to four months. A small dab daily is all you’ll need to achieve dramatic results. What’s more, it’s fairly affordable per ounce compared to some of the other products on our list.
Efficacy
This product and Neutrogena’s Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer With Sunscreen boast the fastest results on our entire list. This is because both creams have the same accelerated formula. With consistent use, you should see a dramatic reduction in fine lines and wrinkles within just one week (assuming you don’t have sensitive skin).
Pros
- Clinically proven to combat the visible signs of aging
- Fast-acting
- Fairly affordable
Cons
- No SPF
- May irritate sensitive skin
6. Best Natural Neck Cream: Kleem Organics Advanced Retinol Moisturizer
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Skin Type: Normal, Oily, Combination
- Scent: Orange
- Sun Protection: None
- Primary Purpose: Preventive & Reversive
Formula
Containing five bio-active ingredients—retinol, hyaluronic acid, green tea, vitamin E, and jojoba oil—this deeply moisturizing cream guarantees more radiant skin. Its proprietary formula stimulates the production of both collagen and elastin, thereby plumping wrinkles and combatting sagging.
Comprised solely of natural and organic ingredients, this product is ideal for both men and women who want to avoid creams that contain harsh chemicals or parabens, sulfates, or alcohol. What’s more, it’s made in the USA and endorsed by PETA for being cruelty-free, so you can actually feel good about buying it.
Because it contains maximum-strength retinol, though, this cream can irritate sensitive skin. As such, you should incorporate it slowly into your regimen if your face and neck are prone to redness, itchiness, rashes, or breakouts. It’s also scented with orange, which you may or may not find appealing, depending on how sensitive you are to fragrances.
Capacity
Sold in nifty pump jars that hold 1.7 ounces, this product won’t last as long as some of the others on our list because it must be applied twice a day instead of just once daily. If you use it only on your neck, expect each unit to last for about six to eight weeks. Should you prefer a cream that you won’t have to stock up on nearly as often, consider InstaNatural Retinol Moisturizer, which is twice as large (and for roughly the same price!).
Efficacy
With twice-daily applications, this cream can leave you with noticeably smoother and softer skin after about five weeks. For optimal efficacy, though, the manufacturer recommends supplementing it with their Professional Age-Defying Vitamin C Serum.
Pros
- Cruelty-Free
- Clinically proven to combat the visible signs of aging
- Free of paraben, sulfates, and alcohol
- Natural and organic
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin
- Demands additional products for optimal results
- No SPF
7. Best Double-Chin Reducing Neck Cream: ACTIV Science Triple Firming Neck Cream
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Skin Type: All
- Scent: Fragrance-Free
- Sun Protection: None
- Primary Purpose: Reversive
Formula
If the skin beneath your chin has started sagging, this Triple Firming Neck Cream is the answer. Even people who maintain a healthy weight can find themselves developing a double chin as they age because the skin that transitions from the face to neck is no longer as tight as it used to be. While you might feel incredibly self-conscious about it, you are not powerless.
Comprised of ingredients that are clinically proven to tighten skin, this rich cream is highly potent. Its five-pronged approach to anti-aging includes firming, lifting, repairing, moisturizing, and plumping.
In addition to its active ingredients, this formula contains soothing ingredients like sunflower seed oil and avocado oil. What you won’t find on the label are dyes, parabens, or harmful chemicals. And since it’s not tested on animals, you can stock your vanity with a clean conscience.
Capacity
Sold in 1.7-ounce pump jars, this cream can be applied up to twice daily. As such, a single unit will likely last for six to eight weeks. If you apply it to your face, as well, though, you’ll have to replace the jar much sooner.
Efficacy
Because it doesn’t contain some of the more potent ingredients that other creams on our list do, it can take a while to notice a dramatic improvement in your skin. If you’re looking for a cream that will yield rapid results, you may have better luck with something like Neutrogena’s Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream.
As far as the efficacy of this cream, with diligent applications—twice a day for the fastest results—you may notice tighter skin under your chin after about two months. That means you’ll probably have to buy a second jar and keep using it before you see any major improvements. It also means this product is great for people with sensitive skin, though, especially if they’re worried about having a reaction to retinol.
Pros
- Cruelty-Free
- No dyes, parabens, or harmful chemicals
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Takes a while to yield younger-looking skin
- Small quantity won’t last long with twice-daily applications on face and neck
8. Best Retinol-Free Neck Cream: Desert Beauty Neck & Décolleté Peptide Cream
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Skin Type: Mature, Sensitive
- Scent: Scented
- Sun Protection: None
- Primary Purpose: Reversive
Formula
Comprised of peptides, collagen, elastin, and stem cells, this retinol-free neck cream has impressive firming and tightening properties. For optimal efficacy, it also contains clinically proven anti-aging agents like hyaluronic acid and vitamin E.
A deeply moisturizing formula, Desert Beauty’s Peptide Cream is manufactured in Israel using only the highest quality ingredients. Free of formaldehyde, alcohol, hormones, GMOs, parabens, and phthalates, it’s never tested on animals. Designed for older people whose skin has already fallen victim to a life well lived, this cream can restore a youthful glow with consistent use.
Capacity
Sold in an airless dispenser pump bottle that holds 3.4 ounces, even those with arthritis have no problem getting a dab of cream. Simply take the cap off and push down with gentle pressure; there are no lids to unscrew. With once-daily applications on the neck alone, each unit should last for four to six months.
Efficacy
Although it doesn’t contain any retinol, this cream still has a potent anti-aging formula that can yield visible results in one to two months. If you’re hoping for results in a matter of weeks, though—and your skin isn’t sensitive to maximum-strength retinol—you might prefer a product with rapid renewal agents like Neutrogena’s Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer With Sunscreen.
Pros
- Cruelty-Free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Sold in a larger quantity so each bottle lasts longer
Cons
- Takes a while to yield younger-looking skin
- Manufactured in Israel so it may not meet certain U.S. standards
9. Best Neck Cream for Sensitive Skin: L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Anti-Wrinkle & Firming Cream
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Skin Type: Sensitive
- Scent: Scented
- Sun Protection: None
- Primary Purpose: Preventive
Formula
Just because you have sensitive skin doesn’t mean you can’t reap the benefits of retinol. If your face and neck have reacted poorly to other anti-aging serums but you still want the dramatic regenerating effects of retinol, this cream may be the answer.
Comprised of nourishing and intensely hydrating ingredients, L’Oreal’s Revitalift cream can erase fine lines and wrinkles along the jawline and down the neck. With firming and tightening agents, it can also combat sagging. Designed to be a daily moisturizer, it can actually be used twice a day—in the morning and evening—to achieve faster results.
To prevent irritation and dryness, this product doesn’t contain any parabens, colorants, or dyes. And since it’s been allergy tested, even those who are prone to rashes and breakouts may be able to use it without worry.
Capacity
Available in 1.7- and 2.55-ounce jars, this cream will last you for several months. If you intend to apply it twice daily for faster results, opt for the larger jar so you can replace it less often.
Efficacy
Because this cream doesn’t contain maximum-strength retinol, it won’t yield results as quickly as that of some of the other products on our list, like Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream. However, that’s also what makes it suitable for sensitive skin. With consistent daily use, you should notice fewer wrinkles and less sagging in about one month. To prevent further damage, though, this cream should really be supplemented with a sunscreen as it doesn’t contain any SPF.
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Dermatologist tested
- Free of parabens, colorants, and dyes
Cons
- No SPF
- May take awhile to notice results
10. Best Organic Neck Cream: Maryann Organics Collagen Day & Night Anti-Aging Cream
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Skin Type: All
- Scent: Aloe Vera
- Sun Protection: None
- Primary Purpose: Preventive
Formula
Proudly made in the United States, Maryann Organics’ Collagen Cream has powerful anti-aging properties. Its unique blend of hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, vitamin C, avocado, and coconut support cell renewal while delivering intense hydration. From firming to filling, this cream keeps fine lines, wrinkles, and creases at bay.
Let the non-greasy formula whisk you away to a relaxing beach with its fresh aloe vera scent. Thirsty skin will drink up this lightweight lotion, which you can feel good about buying because of the manufacturer’s commitment to using natural ingredients. For optimal results on your face, neck, and chest, use with Maryann Organics’ Retinol Moisturizing Cream.
Capacity
Each container of collagen cream holds 1.7 ounces. Since a small dab once a day is all you’ll need to achieve dramatic results, each unit can last for three to four months.
Efficacy
Unlike products that have maximum strength retinol, like LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream, this cream contains gentler ingredients that make for a less potent formula. As such, it tends to take longer to yield results.
For example, it may take one to two months of daily use before you see a noticeable improvement in your skin. Depending on how much cream you use for each application, that could mean purchasing a second jar and continuing to use it before you notice firmer, more radiant skin.
Pros
- Cruelty-Free
- Comprised of organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free ingredients
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Clinically proven to combat the visible signs of aging
Cons
- No SPF
- Takes a while to yield younger-looking skin
A Comprehensive Guide to Neck Creams
Neck cream is a must for your anti-aging arsenal. With so many products on the market, though, it can be hard to narrow down the options and find the right one for your particular needs. Read on to learn more about this beauty essential so you can choose the best formula for your delicate skin.
What Kinds of Ingredients Yield the Most Dramatic Results?
The efficacy of any given neck cream ultimately comes down to the ingredients it contains. Some of the most common ingredients found in these formulas have been clinically proven to combat the visible signs of aging, while others are backed by lots of anecdotal evidence. You can learn more about the most potent active ingredients below.
Retinol
Retinol is a chemical derivative of vitamin A. Often confused with retinoids, which are also derived from vitamin A, retinol is available in over-the-counter products. Retinoids, on the other hand, must typically be prescribed by dermatologists because of their potency (although a 0.1% gel recently became available without a prescription).
A popular ingredient in “cosmeceuticals” like neck cream, retinol encourages cells to divide more rapidly, stimulating the production of collagen and new elastic fibers in the process. The host of new cells join forces with the excess collagen and added elasticity to thicken the epidermis, leaving skin smoother, firmer, and plumper. Retinol also happens to hinder the inflammation that contributes to breakouts. That means if you have oily skin, you may notice a reduction in acne, too, when using retinol-based creams.
Be Mindful of Retinol’s Strength
While you may be inclined to purchase the most powerful retinol-based cream you can find after reviewing these benefits, it’s important to remember that too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. This is especially true for those with sensitive skin, who may develop dryness and irritation if they don’t incorporate retinol into their beauty routine gradually.
If the cream recommends twice-daily applications, for example, but your skin is sensitive, you may want to start with a single application every other day. If you still experience irritation, switch to a retinol-free cream, instead, like Desert Beauty’s Neck & Décolleté Peptide Cream.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring lubricant. Found primarily in the joints and the eyes, it also has anti-aging properties. When applied to the skin, for example, it helps the cells in the epidermis retain their moisture, thereby lending to a softer, plumper complexion. This, in turn, reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and creases.
Hyaluronic acid also happens to be safe on all skin types, including those that are oily or prone to acne. While many products that contain hyaluronic acid are fairly expensive, our Best Budget Pick won’t break the bank.
Collagen
Found in the body’s connective and conjunctive tissues, collagen is a fibrillar protein that has a host of cosmetic applications. When rubbed on the skin—in the form of a neck cream, for example—collagen can improve elasticity, leaving the skin plumper and tighter.
Why Do Some Neck Creams Recommend the Addition of Sunscreen?
Neck cream manufacturers recommend adding sunscreen to your daily beauty regimen for two reasons. First, no matter how powerful the cream is, it’s no match for the sun’s harmful rays. Exposure to UV radiation speeds up the aging process and contributes to fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration. That means failing to apply an adequate sunscreen could essentially cancel out any restorative properties of your neck cream.
This is why many products actually contain SPF. If you want to apply both a neck cream and sunscreen in a single step, try RoC’s Multi Correxion 5-in-1 Cream.
The second reason manufacturers encourage sunscreen application is the fact that retinol-based creams make the skin more vulnerable to sun damage. Retinol speeds up cell turnover, and new cells are not nearly as robust when it comes to withstanding UV radiation as old cells are.
How to Determine Your Skin Type
While some of the products on this list were formulated for all skin types, like our Best Overall Pick, you may notice better results if you use a neck cream that was specifically designed for you. If you’re not entirely sure what your skin type is, this brief guide should help.
You Have Normal Skin If:
You rarely have breakouts and your skin is relatively clear, smooth, and soft. People with normal skin can typically try new products without worrying about sensitivity or irritation. If you neither have to blot away excess oil nor moisturize excessively, your skin is normal.
You Have Oily Skin If:
Your face and neck are virtually always glistening. If you rely heavily on blotting papers or mattifying powders, oily skin is likely to blame. Likewise, you may have a hard time finding makeup that stays put and moisturizers that your skin actually absorbs.
You Have Dry Skin If:
Your skin feels tight and itchy shortly after you shower. Flakiness, cracking, and sensitivity are also symptoms of dry skin. If you’re constantly applying lotions, serums, and creams, your skin is dry. Our research indicates the best neck cream for dry skin is RoC Multi Correxion 5-in-1 Cream.
You Have Combination Skin If:
You have some dry patches and some oily patches. If your face often breaks out in just one or two areas, for example, but the rest remains itchy and tight, you likely have combination skin. Most people with this type of skin have an oily T-zone, which is comprised of the forehead and nose, and a dry chin with dry cheeks.
You Have Mature Skin If:
Your skin is lined with wrinkles and tends to sag. Dullness, dark spots, and uneven coloration are also common on mature skin. A number of factors will ultimately influence just how quickly your skin ages, from environment to diet to sun exposure, but you can generally expect to start developing the earliest signs of mature skin in your thirties or forties.
Our recommendation for mature skin is Desert Beauty’s Neck & Décolleté Peptide Cream.
You Have Sensitive Skin If:
You often experience stinging, burning, or irritation when applying cosmetic products. You may also have sensitive skin if you flush easily or develop rashes frequently. Because of the negative reactions, people with sensitive skin are usually wary of exploring new products.
Thankfully, we’ve taken the guesswork out for you. If you have sensitive skin, try L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Anti-Wrinkle & Firming Cream.
How Long Should I Try a Neck Cream Before Deciding It’s Not Working?
It can certainly be disheartening to invest in a high-quality product and then fail to see results. When it comes to neck creams, though, even the most potent formulas are unlikely to cause a dramatic improvement overnight. As such, it’s important to be patient.
Generally speaking, you should try a neck cream for at least two weeks straight before evaluating its performance. Before getting started, take some detailed photographs of your neck in decent lighting, like at your bathroom vanity. Use the product as instructed for two weeks, and then compare the skin on your neck to the photographs. Make sure to stand in the same place under the same lighting for the comparison.
If you don’t see any improvement whatsoever, you may want to try a more potent formula; however, if you’re not experiencing any irritation, either, it’s worth trying the cream for another two weeks before giving up on it entirely. While some of the products on this list can yield prompt results, most take a month or more to produce a truly noticeable difference.
Are Neck Creams Suitable for Men?
While neck creams are generally marketed toward women, they can be just as beneficial for men. All the products on this list can be used by both men and women to combat the visible signs of aging that tend to overtake the neck’s delicate skin.
When it comes to finding the right product, men have most of the same considerations as women. As a general rule, though, they tend to prefer unscented products, like ACTIV Science Triple Firming Neck Cream. Additionally, they’ll have to evaluate the other products they apply to their neck, like aftershave, to reduce the risk of a reaction.
At What Age Should I Start Using Neck Cream?
You’re never too young—nor too old—to start using neck cream. Your age and the condition of your skin will simply determine whether you want a formula with preventive or restorative properties.
Generally speaking, younger people—those under about 40—will want creams that were designed to prevent fine lines, wrinkles, sagging and creases. Those over the age of 40, on the other hand, may want to use a product that has reversive properties. Certain formulas can actually tighten, lift, and plump the skin, thereby reversing the most telling signs of aging.
Find the Right Neck Cream for You
It’s never too early—or too late—to combat the dreaded “turkey neck.” While fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging naturally occur with age, they are preventable—and with the right cream and a diligent beauty regimen, they can even be reversible!
Choosing the right neck cream may seem like a daunting task, but once you grasp the basics, you’ll have no problem finding a formula that helps you achieve radiant skin that doesn’t betray your age.