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10 Best Neck Creams To Tighten and Firm Mature Skin
Skin care should extend beyond your chin.
If you’re reading this, you probably have your skin care regimen down to a fine art. When it comes to a good cleanser, face serum, and face moisturiser, you know exactly what you’re looking for to suit your particular needs. However, despite all the extensive attention we give our faces, our necks usually don’t get nearly as much pampering as they deserve.
It’s a shame, considering the fact that the skin on the neck is delicate and vulnerable to premature signs of ageing, like sagging and wrinkles. 'Your neck is composed of thinner skin, which makes it more prone to dryness,' says dermatologist Dr. Margarita Lolis. Adding one of the best neck creams to your arsenal is a surefire way to ensure that your neck and décolletage are well taken care of.
Our top picks for the best neck creams in 2024
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Do neck firming creams actually work?
If you’re concerned about loose skin, fine lines, and wrinkles around the neck area, topical creams can minimise those issues. 'Neck-firming creams are a great place to start—and they do work,' says Dr. Lal, plastic surgeon and dermatologist. Some richer face creams will do the trick, and you can always extend the area you moisturise all the way down to your neck.
However, some specialised formulas are infused with fine-line-fighting ingredients, like peptides, retinol, and vitamin C. These products are efficacious yet gentle, making them perfect for protecting and treating the more fragile skin in the area.
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.
'Good neck creams will have a retinol, which stimulates collagen and also helps fade pigmentation 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 moisturiser after will help soothe the skin and help it to appear smoother.'
Who should be using a neck firming cream?
According to Dr. Lolis, everyone should have a neck cream in their beauty routine. 'It should be incorporated into your skincare routine just as you would incorporate, for example, an under-eye cream.' She believes that your neck is often neglected, which is compounded by the fact that the area has less subcutaneous fat, making it more prone to developing skin laxity. Thus, 'the earlier you start using a neck cream, the better,' she adds.
How we test the best neck creams
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE 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 beauty editors spoke with experts and industry leaders about the best neck creams. They also tested a few top-rated products and pored over reviews for dozens of others, evaluating each on their features and customer feedback.
Thanks to expert insights, customer reviews, and fellow editors who tested several options, we’ve rounded up the 10 best neck creams for a smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking neck.
The best neck creams
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.
Reviewer rating: 4.6/5 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—this cream has an immediate tightening effect, and it makes the skin on my neck impossibly soft.” —Katie Berohn, beauty editor
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
NeoStrata knew exactly what they were doing when they 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.
Reviewer rating: 4.2/5 stars
An ELLE contributor 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
It Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream Hydrating Moisturiser
Hundreds of customers mention this neck cream provides fast results in up to a week. It’s powered by elastin and collagen to quickly firm skin, as well as barrier-boosting ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter to keep moisture locked in.
Key ingredients: Elastin, collagen, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, shea butter
Best for: All skin types
Size: 0.5-4 fl. oz
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “This is the first neck cream I ever tried, and I was pleasantly surprised given the affordability for the results you get. The cream is thick and absorbs well into the skin. I applied it in an upward motion and noticed a difference in my superficial wrinkles over the course of a month. If you are starting out with neck creams or want to take preventative measures, this is a great option.” —Danielle James, beauty expert
iS Clinical’s formulas are notable for their pharmaceutical-grade ingredients, and this product is no different. AHAs gently exfoliate and even out the skin, hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates, and antioxidants work to neutralize aging free radicals.
Key ingredients: AHAs, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid
Best for: All skin types
Size: 1.7 oz.
Reviewer rating: 4.5/5 stars
A reviewer says: “I received a 5 ml sample, and from the first time I used this, I noticed a slight tightening on my neck. I have used this every day and continue to see results. This product works, and I will be purchasing the full size.”
La Mer’s moisturizers are the stuff of legends, and it’s time to give your neck the same treatment. The formula features the renowned Miracle Broth, which reduces irritation, as well as lime tea concentrate to combat the effects of environmental stressors. Plus, fermented marine-based ingredients firm and lift the skin by boosting its natural collagen. You can apply it to your neck with your fingers, but the cream also comes with an elegant applicator brush if you’d prefer not to use your hands.
Key ingredients: Concentrated Miracle Broth, lime tea concentrate
Best for: All skin typesSize: 1.7 oz.
Nordstrom rating: 4.5/5 stars
A Nordstrom reviewer says: “Silky smooth texture that soaks right in and leaves skin feeling ultra-soft and velvety. Lines in my neck have greatly decreased. One of my favorite indulgences. Clean, intoxicating aroma.”
Estee Lauder Resilience Multi-Effect Tri-Peptide Face and Neck Creme SPF 15 Normal/Combination Skin 50ml
Peptides are all the rage these days for their collagen-supporting properties, and this peptide-infused neck cream has been shown to increase collagen by a whopping 124 percent in just a few days. If you’re not already applying SPF to your neck, the moisturizer takes care of that too, helping prevent the dark spots and wrinkles that come with excess sun exposure.
Key ingredients: Peptides, antioxidants, sodium hyaluronate
Best for: All skin types
Size: 1.7 oz.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
A reviewer says: “This is one amazing product and it goes on super smooth and super easy. It leaves my skin feeling refreshed and smooth and I never look oily when I wake up in the morning. It firms my skin and feels great.”
When looking for a skin-tightening cream, Dr. Arash Akhavan recommends opting for one that is retinol-based, as it can help boost collagen production. For even more potent results, you can mix retinol underneath a neck cream. This retinol is formulated with aloe vera to avoid unnecessary irritation as you introduce it into your routine. Lactic acid also helps gently exfoliate the skin.
Key ingredients: Retinol, lactic acid, aloe vera
Best for: Normal, dry, combination, oily skin
Size: 1 oz.
Reviewer rating: 4.2/5 stars
A reviewer says: “I’ve been using Shani Darden Retinol Reform for three weeks. I’ve had no skin irritation like you get from many retinol products. The texture of my skin overall has greatly improved. My redness and uneven coloring and hyperpigmentation has also decreased in just 3 weeks. It takes such a small amount of product to cover my face and neck.”
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
Sephora rating: 4.6/5 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.”
Skinceuticals’ neck cream has wrinkle-smoothing top of mind. The star ingredient, retinol, works wonders against tech neck by increasing cell turnover. Since the skin on your neck can be more delicate, this neck cream uses a slow-release retinol.
Key ingredients: Retinol, tripeptide concentrate, glaucine complex
Best for: All skin types
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Skinceuticals rating: 4/5
A Skinceuticals reviewer says: “So far the product has worked marvelously. No burning or itching nor any adverse reactions. I wish I had taken before images! The fine lines are not so apparent anymore…I’m not reaching out for a turtleneck to wear. I am on week two of two times a week use. Next week, I’ll use it three times a week.”
Meet the Experts
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. Arash Akhavan is a board-certified dermatologist and founder and director of The Dermatology & Laser Group in New York City.
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 skincare, 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 after will help soothe the skin and help it to appear smoother.”
Who should be using a neck firming cream?
According to Dr. Lolis, everyone should have a neck cream in their beauty routine. “It should be incorporated into your skincare routine just as you would incorporate, for example, an under-eye cream.” She believes that your neck is often neglected, which is compounded by the fact that the area has less subcutaneous fat, making it more prone to developing skin laxity. Thus, “the earlier you start using a neck cream, the better,” she adds.
What in-office treatments can you receive for the neck area?
For more intense and long-lasting results, in-office treatments are available. “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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Katie Berohn is ELLE’s beauty editor. Previously, she held the same title at Who What Wear, where she was promoted from associate beauty editor. She’s written for publications like The Cut, Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, and Mashable. Her interests include fragrance, vintage shopping, hot yoga, food, travel, music, books, and attempting to make every NYT Cooking recipe. She’s on the endless hunt to find the perfect shade of red lipstick.
Carol Lee is the Associate E-Commerce Writer at ELLE.com, where she covers all things beauty and personal care. Before joining the team, she was an editor at Food Network Magazine and HGTV Magazine and ran the beauty section at The Pioneer Woman. Carol received her bachelor’s degree in Journalism from New York University and was one of the first customers to visit Glossier’s flagship store in New York’s Soho neighborhood. Over the years, she’s tested countless makeup, hair, and skin care products, and written hundreds of articles covering the beauty space, from pieces about the trendiest launches to roundups of the best products on the market. As a Korean-American, she grew up in a sea of Korean makeup and skin care products and is a bona fide expert on the ever-expanding world of K-beauty, helping lead our coverage. Additionally, she’s also always on the hunt for the perfect lipstick and watches the same few comfort sitcoms (Frasier, Cheers, Seinfeld, New Girl, etc.) over and over again.
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