We are all products of our generation and there’s no truer testament to that than the rise of tech neck. While preceding generations may have experienced back and neck pain as a result of being hunched over laptops, computers, or even typewriters (if we’re going all the way back in time), we have the stiff muscles plus aesthetic issues added into the equation.
What is tech neck?
Tech neck is a term that refers to fine lines and wrinkles on the neck as a result of increased use of technology, particularly phones and other handheld devices.
What causes tech neck?
Any form of repeated motion or expression has the potential to cause fine lines and wrinkles (think constantly raising your eyebrows or frowning). In the case of tech neck, it’s the short, rapid movements as a result of regularly looking down at your phone or other gadgets. This stretches the skin and results in fine lines or deeper wrinkles. Much like the skin under your eyes, the skin on your neck is thinner than that of the face and rest of the body and contains fewer glands (and thus less oil and collagen production). The comparatively reduced production of oil and collagen on the neck results in it being less plump and more prone to sagging or wrinkling.
How to prevent tech neck and neck wrinkles from forming
Prevention is often the best cure when it comes to skincare and dealing with tech neck is no exception. To reduce the occurrence of wrinkles and fine lines on the neck, try bringing your phone or devices up to eye level, ensuring you keep your chin parallel to the floor and avoid bending or creasing your neck.
The best neck firming serums and creams
If tech neck or turkey neck (a term used to refer to sagging or loose skin under the chin and on the neck) is already an issue for you, a dedicated neck firming serum or cream should be your first port of call. So, start giving your neck the same care you provide your face with one of these neck firming products.
1. SkinCeuticals Tripeptide-R Neck Repair
Designed to cater to the thinner skin on the neck, the SkinCeuticals Tripeptide-R Neck Repair combines slow-release retinol with tripeptides and glaucine in a hydrating delivery system to create a formula suitable for daily use without irritation. The serum-like formula targets multiple signs of ageing including crepiness, sagging, a loss in skin firmness and elasticity, and of course, those bothersome horizontal neck lines.
2. StriVectin TL Neck Tightening Neck Cream
Made with patented NIA-114 technology which aids in strengthening the skin barrier as well as a Gravitite-CF Lifting Complex, the StriVectin TL Neck Tightening Neck Cream is a potent formula for tackling signs of ageing on the neck. The addition of nourishing ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid prevent skin irritation and keep the area moisturised while the formula works to tone the neck area and minimise the appearance of fine lines and deeper wrinkles with consistent use.
3. Elizabeth Arden Prevage Anti-Aging Neck and Décolleté Cream
Working on the neck and décolletage, this formula uses a blend of antioxidants to support collagen production and protect against free radicals; tightening polymers to promote a more toned appearance; and soothing ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin to nourish the skin. While you should be applying sunscreen to all exposed areas, the chest is often neglected, making this formula an ideal addition to your skincare arsenal.
4. It Cosmetics Confidence In A Neck Cream Moisturizer
The It Cosmetics Confidence In A Neck Cream Moisturizer features hero ingredients of seaweed extract and a tri-structural complex of elastin, collagen, and hyaluronic acid. The blend targets horizontal neck lines (i.e tech neck) as well as overall elasticity and firmness.
5. Clarins Extra-Firming Neck & Décolleté
The Clarins Extra-Firming Neck & Décolleté targets both wrinkles and dark spots through a combination of botanicals. A sunflower complex firms, desert date works on discolouration and dark spots, kangaroo flower and mitracarpus extracts to smooth and firm the skin, and shea oil to moisturise and comfort the skin. A gentle treatment to aid with mild signs of ageing like fine lines and crepiness, or as a preventative measure.
6. iS Clinical NeckPerfect Complex
AHAs, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and potent botanicals combine to help lift, tighten, and define saggy skin. Gentle exfoliation aids with minimising fine lines and wrinkles, while improving skin tone and texture over time.
Words by T. Angel
