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Transform Your Neck: The Top Creams That Banish Lines and Sagging
Skin care beyond the chin is just as important.
A harsh truth: Our skin is resilient, but its strength begins to wane as we get older. The result? Wrinkles around the eyes, as well as crepiness, saggy skin, and dark circles. From the face down to the neck, that’s where we approach "tech neck" territory. Why? Blame constantly bending our necks to scroll on our phones or type on our laptops.
“[The neck] has fewer oil glands and is constantly exposed to environmental damage and repetitive movements like turning or looking down at devices, leading to ‘tech neck,’” says Dr. Karan Lal, a plastic surgeon and dermatologist in Arizona. “This combination accelerates collagen and elastin breakdown, resulting in sagging, fine lines, and wrinkles.” However, not all hope is lost—with some special care and prevention, you can slow down this process with something as simple as a neck cream.
Our top picks for the best neck creams in 2025
“Neck-firming creams are a great place to start—and they do work,” says Lal. Sometimes, you could spread your rich face creams for wrinkles from your face down to your neck. But if you want to give your neck some extra love, there are tech neck-combating creams out there that “are specifically formulated to address these concerns by including ingredients like peptides to boost collagen, retinoids to promote cell turnover, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and antioxidants to protect against free radicals,” says Dr. Liu.
We received recommendations from experts, tested several formulas, and reviewed numerous customer reviews to identify the best neck firming creams available on the market. A smoother, youthful-looking décolletage is only a click away.
Pros
- Anti-aging
Cons
- Takes time to see full results
The latest iteration of the brand’s bestselling formula is the holy grail of neck creams. When you slather it all over your neck and décolleté, expect minimized wrinkles, firmer texture, and an overall smoother finish. Thanks to a patented Alpha-3 Peptide, this cream works to improve elasticity and lift the skin. Additionally, it includes brightening clary sage extract and antioxidant-rich spilanthol to reduce inflammation. Read our full review of StriVectin neck cream here.
Key ingredients: Alpha-3 Peptide, clary sage extract, spilanthol
Best for: Normal, dry, combination, oily skin
Size: 0.25-3.4 oz.
StriVectin rating: 4.3/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “Though I’m lucky not to have many visible wrinkles on my neck (yet), I think using a neck cream is a great preventative approach to take. This one from Strivectin is well-regarded as the holy grail of neck creams. When you put it on, it’s easy to see why—the cream has an immediate tightening effect, and it makes the skin on my neck impossibly soft.”—Katie Berohn, beauty editor
Pros
- Plumping ingredients
Cons
- Results take time
We may not understand what’s happening as we’re catching Zzz’s, but rest assured, your skin is getting the rest and rejuvenation it needs. That’s why what your nighttime skin care routine matters—especially rich, reparative anti-aging creams like this one from Filorga. This night cream combines hyaluronic acid and plant extracts to help “fill” lines and wrinkles, resulting in a plumped, supple appearance upon waking.
Key ingredients: Peptides, hyaluronic acid, plant extracts
Size: 1.69 fl oz
Filorga rating: 5/5 stars
Our expert says: “This cream incorporates hyaluronic acid, a smoothing tripeptide, and plant extracts, which help to smooth wrinkles, including those that come with sleeping. This can be used once daily in the evening and can be applied to the face, neck, and décolleté. It has a smooth gel-cream texture that absorbs easily.”—Dr. Marisa Garshick, board-certified dermatologist
Pros
- Powerhouse ingredients
Cons
- More for lines and wrinkles than for firming skin
As its name suggests, the Techno Neck Perfecting Cream is powered to give your skin the best of the best technology to prevent tech neck (tech, no neck—get it?). The tech in question is Skinbetter’s patented NOw complex, which aims to boost the skin’s natural production cycle of nitric oxide. In addition to NOw complex, this formula uses niacinamide, fruit extracts, squalane, and more to hydrate, soften texture, and improve elasticity, among other benefits.
Key ingredients: NOw complex, Heptapeptide-7, niacinamide, squalane, linoleic acid, fruit extracts
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Skinbetter rating: 4.2/5 stars
Our expert says: “This splurge-worthy neck cream works to hydrate, strengthen and firm the overall appearance of the neck, while also improving crepiness, skin laxity and the appearance of wrinkles. It uses the patented NOw Complex, peptides, growth factors, niacinamide, essential fatty acids and squalane in addition to vitamin C and other antioxidants to also nourish and support the skin. It is easy to apply and can be used one to two times per day.”—Dr. Marisa Garshick
Pros
- Anti-aging
Cons
- Small size
NeoStrata knew exactly what it was doing when it created this moisturizing and strengthening neck cream. With its hero ingredients—NeoGlucosamine to improve discoloration and Neocitriate and amino acids to thicken the skin—it’s easy to see why it’s a holy grail item.
Key ingredients: NeoGlucosamine, Neocitriate, amino acids
Best for: Dry, normal, oily
Size: 2.8 oz.
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
Our expert says: “When quarantine started and I found myself in a less-than-ideal WFH desk setup, I noticed the lines on my neck becoming more pronounced. I immediately ordered this cream, and I swear, within a week, I noticed a difference. It WORKS—like actually—and doesn’t cause any breakouts or irritation on my sensitive skin. Five stars!”—Jessica Roy, ELLE.com contributor
Pros
- Tightening and softening
Cons
- Scent may be unpleasant to some
Yeouth’s neck cream is chock full of antioxidants, like green tea, which encourages cell healing, and vitamin C, a powerhouse ingredient that fights free radicals that cause aging. Squalene is also included for deep hydration.
Key ingredients: Squalane, vitamin C
Best for: All skin types
Size: 2 oz.
Amazon rating: 4/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “This neck cream leaves skin extremely soft immediately after you apply it. It takes a minute to rub in, but once it’s on the skin, it sinks in and doesn’t leave any film. It’s very lightly scented, though my only qualm is that it seems to take on a bit of the plastic smell of its container. For the price, I think this is a really great option for a neck cream.”—Katie Berohn
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil
Pros
- Hydrating
Cons
- May not be suited for sensitive skin
You might be familiar with Neutrogena’s other cult-favorite skin care products, but have you tried their retinol face and neck cream? With over 8,000 reviews raving about how immediate results were, this affordable option will be quite the bang for your buck.
Key ingredients: Retinol
Best for: Dry, aging
Size: 1 oz.
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Knowing my skin is sensitive, I lightly applied at night for a few months and saw the difference! The oil absorbed very well and left my face very soft, and the wrinkles definitely softened. I just started using the oil in the evening and morning, and I have received compliments on my skin! Very satisfied.”
Pros
- Absorbs rapidly
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May run out quickly
As we age, our skin loses elasticity and firmness, resulting in jowls and that dreaded “turkey neck” effect. This serum harnesses the power of exosomes derived from pineapple stems to influence cellular behavior at the molecular level. Over the course of a couple of weeks, you’ll notice that your jawline looks more contoured, wrinkles appear smoother and firmer, and your double chin seems to be shrinking.
Key ingredients: NX35, glycerin, caffeine, niacinamide
Best for: Dry, normal, oily
Size: 1.01 oz.
SickScience rating: 4.6/5 stars
Our expert says: “This serum sounds too good to be true, but the before and after images I saw on the website finally convinced me to try it. The gel-serum texture sinks into the skin and hydrates without leaving behind any greasy residue. Within a couple of weeks, I saw definition on my jawline that I swear wasn’t there before. I’ve also had wrinkles on my neck since childhood, so I’m hoping that the product will help stop them from getting any deeper. I’ve already stocked up on two or three backup bottles so that I always have them on hand.”—Carol Lee, beauty writer
Pros
- Hydrating
Cons
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
This product is specifically formulated to target signs of aging on the neck. It is packed with peptides to boost collagen production and ultimately promote a more youthful appearance. At the same time, rosewater adds a soothing element since the skin on our necks is so delicate. Plus, niacinamide helps brighten and even out skin tone.
Key ingredients: Niacinamide, peptides
Best for: Aging, dry skin
Size: 1.7 oz
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “Now in my mid-40s, I definitely needed some tightening and smoothing of the skin. This neck serum by Nécessaire is lightweight, goes on smooth, and absorbs immediately without any sticky residue. I used this as a part of my morning skin routine and felt well-moisturized from the start and definitely can see improvement in my neck skin texture and firmness with consistent use.”
InstaNatural Retinol Moisturizer Anti Aging Night Face Cream
Pros
- Anti-aging
Cons
- May not be suited for sensitive skin
This potent moisturizer is like an undo button for sun damage. It features retinol, vitamin C, green tea extract, and hyaluronic acid to address wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.
Key ingredients: Retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid
Best for: All skin types
Size: 3.4 oz.
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I'm getting older, almost 48, and my neck has been a source of concern for me. I felt like my neck was aging me quite badly. After some research, I opted for the cheapest neck cream I could find that was recommended. This stuff works—it is amazing. Put a bit on my neck, and I now have a much younger looking neck that no longer ages me.”
Pros
- Anti-aging
Cons
- Need to use consistently to see results
You only need four weeks to see results from this drugstore favorite, which features vitamin E as an anti-aging ingredient. Immediately, it drops a moisture bomb on tired skin with glycerin and shea butter. Over time, it targets aging signs, like wrinkles and sun damage, and also includes SPF 30 to prevent discoloration and damage in the first place.
Key ingredients: Vitamin E, shea butter, glycerin
Best for: Dry, aging skin
Size: 1.7 oz.
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I have been using this for several months now and definitely see a difference in the appearance of my neck. It does seem less saggy, and my décolletage seems to have fewer lines. I am 69 and get accused of being at least a decade younger.”
Pros
- Specially formulated for the neck area
Cons
- Can take time to see results
Although you could very well extend your facial serums and moisturizers down to your neck and decolletage, they’re not necessarily the best for that specific area, especially because the skin is thinner and may be more reactive. “Many neck and décolleté creams are products with retinol and are re-labeled to include ‘neck’ in the packaging,” says Dr. Mona Gohara, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, CT. “But the SkinMedica Neck Correct Cream is formulated specially to address neck concerns, including dermal thickness, elasticity, platysma muscle, and platysmal bands, as well as free-radical damage.”
Key ingredients: Green microalgae, lemon balm and shitake mushroom extract
Best for: All skin types
Size: 2 oz.
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This cream might as well be magic. The plumping effects were instantaneous when applying the cream. About a month into using it, the creases began to noticeably disappear even between applications or on days where I didn’t use it. It is 100 percent worth the money. I use one pump on chest and neck, applying in upward strokes.”
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Comes in a tube with a pump
Cons
- Can take weeks to see results
This science-backed cream produces incredible results and is beloved by dermatologists. Dr. Margarita Lolis, a dermatologist in New Jersey, says this is hands-down her favorite neck cream. “It is very hydrating and makes your skin feel so smooth. I also love the consistency,” she says. The formula packs a blend of five peptides, vitamin C, and plant extracts for brightening and wrinkle-smoothing results. Even better, it comes in a tube, too, so you don’t have to reach into a jar.
Key ingredients: Peptides, vitamins C and E, plant extracts
Best for: Aging skin
Size: 1.7 oz.
Revision Skincare rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This cream has definitely slowed down the crepe on my neck. It only takes a little bit, so the tube lasts a long time.”
Alastin Restorative Neck Complex
Pros
- Derm-approved
Cons
- Packaging makes it difficult to get last drops of product out
Alastin is known for its effective formulations that are often sold at dermatologists’ offices to accompany in-office treatments. The Neck Complex, in particular, is a favorite of Dr. Lolis, Dr. Liu, and Dr. Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand. In addition to addressing crepey skin and wrinkles “with peptides that support collagen and elastin,” says Dr. Liu, it also helps nix redness and discoloration while boosting hydration. It’s recommended to be used morning and night and applied in upward strokes on the neck.
Key ingredients: Peptides, antioxidants, flax seed extract
Best for: Aging skin
Size: 1.7 oz.
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “A friend (whom I had not seen in a year) came to visit and commented that my neck lines are much less noticeable and that I look younger.”
Meet the Experts
Dr. Jenny Liu is a board-certified dermatologist and an assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Minnesota Medical School.
Dr. Kevin Sadati is a plastic surgeon based in Newport Beach, California.
Dr. Karan Lal is a board-certified and celebrity dermatologist. He is currently the Director of Pediatric Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery at Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Dr. Margarita Lolis is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Skin Laser & Surgery Specialists in New York City.
Dr. Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Houshmand MD in Dallas, Texas.
Dr. Mona Gohara is a board-certified dermatologist and associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine.
Do neck firming creams actually work?
If you’re concerned about loose skin, fine lines, and wrinkles around the neck area, topical creams can minimize those issues. “Neck-firming creams are a great place to start—and they do work,” says Dr. Lal. However, like most skin care, results take time. “Neck firming creams will not provide overnight results, with most clinical products requiring 12 weeks of use before results are visible,” adds Dr. Kevin Sadati. While neck creams may not provide the same results that in-office treatments would, “they do help add moisture to the delicate skin around the neck, which can over time smooth the texture and reduce the appearance of wrinkles in the skin. But it is best to pair products with a procedure to achieve desired results,” says Dr. Akhavan.
What ingredients are good to have in a neck firming cream?
The best ingredients to look for are ones that hydrate and nourish the skin. “Hyaluronic acid, peptides, retinol, alpha hydroxy acids, and squalane are some examples of good ingredients to look for in a neck cream, as they are ultra hydrating and beneficial for increasing collagen production,” says Dr. Akhavan. For increased anti-aging, “Good neck creams will have a retinol, which stimulates collagen and also helps fade dyspigmentation that occurs from sun exposure,” says Dr. Lal. However, it’s important to remember that retinol is a powerful ingredient. “The skin on the neck area is thin and sensitive,” says Sadati. He adds, “It’s best to use retinol products on the neck every three days and gradually increase the frequency as tolerated. Applying moisturizer afterward will help soothe the skin and make it appear smoother.”
Who should be using a neck firming cream?
Dr. Lolis is of the firm belief that all of us should be using neck cream. Because the neck area features less subcutaneous fat and because we don’t tend to pay as much attention to it as our faces, it’s even more vulnerable to sagging and laxity than other areas of the body. “It should be incorporated into your skin care routine just as you would incorporate, for example, an under eye cream,” she explains. “The earlier you start using a neck cream, the better.”
However, don’t panic if you feel a little late to the game. “Though starting a neck cream in your late 20s to early 30s can help prevent signs of aging, it’s never too late to see benefits,” says Dr. Liu.
How often should you use a neck firming cream?
According to Dr. Liu, “for best results, apply neck cream twice daily—morning and night,” she says. She also strongly recommends smoothing on a sunscreen on top as part of your morning skin care routine to protect the area from UV damage, which can contribute to things like hyperpigmentation and wrinkles.
What in-office treatments can you receive for the neck area?
In-office treatments are available for more intense and long-lasting results. “There are both surgical and non-surgical options available for neck rejuvenation,” says Dr. Sadati. He adds, “If you are looking for dramatic improvement, a neck lift will deliver these results. Depending on your age and the condition of the skin, non-surgical options such as radiofrequency, microneedling, resurfacing lasers, and injectables can also provide significant improvement.”
Why Trust ELLE Beauty?
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, ELLE.com beauty editors spoke with experts and industry leaders about anti-aging neck products. They also tested a few top-rated products and pored over reviews for dozens of others, evaluating each on their features and customer feedback.
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