Crepey skin on the neck: what helps

The neck is often one of the first places to show signs of ageing. Many people take great care of their face but forget their neck until they notice fine, crinkly lines that look a bit like tissue paper. This is what we usually call crepey skin.

The good news is that there are things that can help. Here is a simple look at the causes and the options.

Why the neck ages differently

The skin on the neck is thinner than on most of the face. It also has fewer oil glands, so it dries out more easily. On top of that:

• It often gets less sun protection than the face
• We bend it forward many times a day to look at phones and screens
• Collagen and elastin naturally reduce as we get older
• Hormonal changes around the menopause can make skin thinner and drier
• Weight changes can leave skin looser

Together these lead to fine lines, loss of firmness and that crepey texture.

Skin boosters for the neck

Skin boosters can help improve the quality of the skin on the neck. They are not a facelift, but they can make skin look smoother and more hydrated.

Profhilo neck

Profhilo is a hyaluronic acid treatment that spreads under the skin to hydrate it and support collagen. For the neck it is usually given as two sessions four weeks apart. Many people find their neck looks smoother and feels more supple after the course.

Polynucleotides

Polynucleotides such as Plenhyage XL Strong are designed to support the skin's natural repair. They may suit thinner, crepey skin on the neck for some people. A course is usually two to four sessions three to four weeks apart. They are not suitable if you have a fish allergy.

I will look at your neck in person and talk through which option, if any, makes most sense for you.

What skin boosters will not do

It is important to be realistic. Skin boosters improve texture and hydration. They will not tighten heavy loose skin or remove deep horizontal neck lines completely. If your main concern is significant sagging, I will be honest with you about what is achievable.

Everyday habits that help

What you do at home matters just as much as any treatment:

• Take your SPF down to your neck and chest every morning
• Use your facial moisturiser and serums on your neck too
• Introduce a gentle retinoid slowly if your skin tolerates it
• Hold your phone at eye level more often
• Avoid smoking, which speeds up collagen loss

Side effects and recovery

After neck treatment you may see small bumps, redness or mild swelling. These usually settle within a day or two. Bruising can happen and may take a few days to fade. Results build gradually over several weeks and vary between people.

Being patient

The neck often responds a little more slowly than the face. Most people see the best improvement a few weeks after finishing a course. Maintenance sessions help keep the result going.

If crepey skin on your neck is bothering you, book a free 15-minute consultation with me in Addlestone. We can look at it together and talk about what might help.