Neck lines, also known as neck wrinkles, are just one of several visible side effects of aging. And although the aging process is a natural and—we think—beautiful part of life, we understand that some may want to hold off the signs of aging for as long as possible. And that’s totally okay! We’re here to help with that.

The good news is there are effective ways to address and minimize the appearance of neck lines. Here, our expert dermatology providers will explore the various techniques and treatments that can help you achieve smoother skin on your neck area. 

What are neck lines?

Neck lines, also known as horizontal neck wrinkles, are a common aesthetic concern that affects the front half of your neck. They appear as linear depressions or furrows in the skin. These wrinkles become more noticeable as we age and can contribute to a crepey or wrinkled appearance in the neck area.¹

But what causes them in the first place?

What causes neck lines? 

The development of neck lines, specifically horizontal neck wrinkles, is influenced by various factors. While skin aging and age-related skin laxity (or looseness) play a role in deepening these wrinkles, neck lines are not solely caused by aging. Individuals of all ages can have them, including children and young adults.

One contributing factor to the development of neck lines is frequent bending of the neck to look at electronic devices such as cell phones, tablets, or books. This repetitive movement can lead to the formation of wrinkles, even in younger individuals.²

Another underlying cause of neck lines is the overactivity and loss of tension in the platysma muscle, which is located in your neck. This can produce horizontal neck wrinkles. The combined effects of muscle movement and changes in your skin's structural components as you age contribute to the formation of neck lines.³

Understanding these causes can help you effectively address neck lines and implement preventive measures or targeted wrinkle treatments to reduce their visibility.

Neck line treatment 

When you go to your dermatology provider with concerns regarding your neck lines, they may recommend various therapies for neck rejuvenation. These therapies may include retinoids, nonsurgical treatments, Botox, hyaluronic acid fillers, and surgical treatments.

Retinoids

Retinoids, which are topical vitamin A derivatives, offer numerous benefits for the skin, particularly in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and promoting a more youthful complexion. One way retinoids help combat wrinkles is by promoting the proliferation of keratinocytes, the primary cells in the outermost layer of the skin. This cell growth helps strengthen the protective function of the skin, resulting in a smoother complexion with reduced wrinkle visibility.⁴

Retinoids also aid in preserving the skin’s moisture by limiting transepidermal water loss, which helps maintain hydration. This may contribute to a more supple and plump appearance. Retinoids further play a crucial role in protecting collagen, a protein responsible for skin firmness and elasticity. They inhibit the activity of metalloproteinases, enzymes that can degrade collagen. By inhibiting these enzymes, retinoids help maintain the structure and integrity of collagen, promoting firmer and more resilient skin.⁵

Incorporating retinoids into your skincare routine can help address wrinkles, enhance skin texture, and promote a more youthful and rejuvenated complexion. Consult with a dermatology provider for personalized advice and guidance on the use of retinoids based on your specific skin needs.

Non-surgical treatments

Non-surgical treatments offer effective options for improving your skin texture and addressing neck laxity. Procedures such as ablative and nonablative laser treatments, micro-focused ultrasound with visualization, radiofrequency, and plasma resurfacing have shown efficacy in tightening the skin and enhancing its appearance.⁶

However, it’s important to note that these treatments may not have a significant impact on reducing fine lines or wrinkles, also known as rhytides. While they can improve overall skin texture and firmness, specific treatments targeting wrinkles, such as injectables or dermal fillers, may be more suitable for addressing fine lines and wrinkles.⁷

Botox 

Botox has been shown to be a safe and effective non-surgical treatment option for neck rejuvenation. Patients treated with Botox generally report high satisfaction levels. In addition to its ability to smooth facial wrinkles, Botox has also been observed to have a smoothening effect on the skin of the neck, providing further aesthetic improvement.⁸ 

Botox is particularly suitable for individuals who desire neck rejuvenation but aren’t willing to undergo surgical procedures or experience a lengthy recovery period. It offers a generally non-invasive alternative with minimal downtime.

Always consult with a dermatology provider to discuss your specific concerns and to determine if Botox is the right choice for you.

Hyaluronic acid fillers

Hyaluronic acid fillers may offer a safe and effective treatment option for reducing horizontal neck wrinkles. A retrospective case series has shown that the injection of hyaluronic acid is successful in improving the appearance of neck lines, and these results can be sustained for up to 36 weeks. This treatment option allows for a non-surgical approach to addressing neck wrinkles and can provide long-lasting improvement in the appearance of your neck when carried out by a professional.⁹

Surgical treatments

Surgical treatments such as skin excision, platysma plication (neck lifts), and liposuction can enhance the contour of your neck. However, these procedures may have limited effects on reducing horizontal neck lines specifically. While they can improve the overall appearance and tightness of the neck, targeted treatments may be necessary to address the specific concern of neck lines.¹⁰

To determine the most appropriate treatment option for your individual needs, consult with a qualified dermatology provider. They can assess your specific concerns, evaluate the severity of your neck lines, and recommend the best course of treatment for achieving your desired outcomes. A personalized approach ensures that you receive the most effective and tailored treatment plan to address your specific concerns.

Preventing neck lines 

Preventing neck lines involves adopting preventive measures to slow down the signs of aging and reduce the impact of frequent neck bending caused by device usage. 

These measures include:

• Protecting your skin: Apply sunscreen regularly to shield your neck from harmful UV rays. Additionally, keep your skin moisturized to maintain its hydration and elasticity.¹¹

• Practice proper ergonomics: Maintain a neutral posture while using electronic devices.¹² Position your device at eye level to avoid excessive neck bending.

• Take breaks and stretch: Incorporate regular breaks from device usage and perform neck stretches to relieve tension and improve blood circulation in the neck area.

• Use voice commands or hands-free options: Minimize the need for neck bending by utilizing voice commands or hands-free features whenever possible.

By implementing these preventive measures, you can minimize the development of neck lines and maintain a more youthful and healthy-looking neck.

Topical anti-aging treatments with Curology 

Revitalize your skin and combat the signs of aging with our topical anti-aging treatments. Our Future-Proof Rx is specially formulated to address the effects of aging. It contains potent ingredients that work to improve texture, help fade dark spots, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

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Experience the power of personalized skincare by signing up for a trial* today. Our team of skincare experts will prescribe a customized formula tailored to your unique skin needs, helping you achieve a more youthful and radiant complexion. 

P.S. We did the homework so you don’t have to:

1. Tseng, F., and Yu, H. Treatment of Horizontal Neck Wrinkles with Hyaluronic Acid Filler: A Retrospective Case Series. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. (2019, August 19).

2. Tseng, F., and Yu, H. Treatment of Horizontal Neck Wrinkles with Hyaluronic Acid Filler: A Retrospective Case Series. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. Ibid.

3. Liao, Z.F., et al. A Case Study: Comprehensive Approach for Treating Horizontal Neck Wrinkles Using Hyaluronic Acid Injections and Thread-Lifting. Aesthetic Plast Surg. (2022, August 25).

4. Zasada, M., and Budzisz, E. Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. (August 2019).

5. Zasada, M., and Budzisz, E. Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. Ibid.

6. Tseng, F., and Yu, H. Treatment of Horizontal Neck Wrinkles with Hyaluronic Acid Filler: A Retrospective Case Series. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. Ibid.

7. Tseng, F., and Yu, H. Treatment of Horizontal Neck Wrinkles with Hyaluronic Acid Filler: A Retrospective Case Series. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. Ibid.

8. Lee, J.H., et al. A Prospective Observational Study of the Effectiveness and Safety of Botulinum Toxin in the Horizontal Neck Lines. Aesthetic Plast Surg. (2018, June 19).

9. Tseng, F., and Yu, H. Treatment of Horizontal Neck Wrinkles with Hyaluronic Acid Filler: A Retrospective Case Series. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. Ibid.

10. Tseng, F., and Yu, H. Treatment of Horizontal Neck Wrinkles with Hyaluronic Acid Filler: A Retrospective Case Series. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. Ibid.

11. Shanbhag, S., et al. Anti-aging and Sunscreens: Paradigm Shift in Cosmetics. Adv Pharm Bull. (August 2019).

12. Tseng, F., and Yu, H. Treatment of Horizontal Neck Wrinkles with Hyaluronic Acid Filler: A Retrospective Case Series. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. Ibid.

Laura Phelan is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Curology. She earned her Masters of Science in Nursing at Benedictine University and went on to get her post-master’s certificate as a Family Nurse Practitioner at the University of Cincinnati.

*Cancel anytime. Subject to consultation. Results may vary.

Written by

Curology Team

Medically reviewed by

Laura Phelan, NP-C