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The 11 Best Neck Creams That Actually Work, According to Dermatologist Recommendations

Treat the skin below your chin.

Three neck creams displayed on a marble counter

Byrdie / Joy Kim

Neck care is often neglected. “The neck is an area that gets a lot of sun exposure because it’s often not covered, and we don’t always protect it as well as we protect our face,” explains New York City board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hadley King, MD. “It also has very little subcutaneous fat, so a loss of volume and increased skin laxity are particularly apparent. And because it has fewer, less active oil glands than the face, it can be more prone to dryness,” she adds. While you can, in theory, use any of your face skincare products on your neck, a dedicated neck cream is specially formulated for super soft skin prone to crepe.

We conducted hours of research on the best neck creams out there and considered dozens of products for this list. We also took a few top-rated products out for a spin to put the results to the test. We evaluated each formula based on active ingredients and their ability to tighten, fade dark spots, and minimize the appearance of lines and sagging. After consulting with Dr. King, we narrowed our list to give you these best in show.

What to Look for in a Neck Cream

  • Collagen-boosting ingredients: When it comes to effective neck creams, you should look for ones with ingredients that stimulate collagen production while protecting the skin. Plastic surgeon Dr. John Diaz, MD, recommends retinol available over the counter to help stimulate collagen. “This can even reverse some of the fine lines and wrinkles on your neck,” he says. To protect the delicate skin on your neck from free radicals and damage, look for complexion-boosting ingredients like vitamins C and E.
  • Hydrating and reparative ingredients: Ample hydration is also the key to a healthy and youthful neck. As dermatologist Dr. Rebecca Baxt, MD, explains, hydrating ingredients can help smooth the surface so lines and wrinkles appear less noticeable. Hyaluronic acid is one ingredient to look for, as it can help your skin retain moisture and diminish your neck’s crepey appearance while lending a subtle plumping effect. Dr. Diaz also recommends looking for various peptides in the ingredients list: “They’re proteins that are essential to your skin’s growth and repair,” he says. “Using them provides your skin with the building blocks it needs to restore its youthful appearance.” 
  • Non-irritating formulas: All skin from the chest up is especially delicate, but the skin on your neck and chest is much different than the skin on your face. “It's slightly thinner than on the face and has less naturally occurring oils,” Dr. Diaz says. “This makes it more prone to redness and irritation.” So you should ensure whatever cream you use on this area won’t irritate sensitive skin. Opt for formulas that are free of fragrance, dyes, preservatives, and essential oils. Retinol alternatives are great for those with more sensitive skin as these types of ingredients aren't as harsh as actual retinol.
What We Like
  • Increases skin elasticity

  • Fades dark spots

  • Plumps skin

What to Consider
  • Can pill under makeup

Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, peptides, shea butter | Dosage: Thin layer in AM and PM | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

There’s a lot to love about this best-selling neck cream, which is why we’re ranking it number one out of the bunch. The formula recently got an upgrade and now includes a unique patented ingredient complex, which the brand says can not only improve the elasticity of the skin on the neck but also lift and help minimize the look of horizontal fine lines—perfect for combatting the appearance of the dreaded tech neck. It also contains niacinamide and ceramides to help strengthen the skin barrier, which is key for keeping easily irritated neck skin in check. The niacinamide also helps to minimize dark spots and even out the skin’s tone.

The combined ingredients have all you need to address signs of aging on the neck. When we tried the StriVectin neck cream for ourselves, we loved that our skin felt super hydrated and wrinkles looked blurred right after application. We also noticed that, after weeks of use, our neck area looked more radiant and smoother overall. While it may be on the pricier end of the spectrum, we'd say it's worth the splurge since it targets multiple concerns all at once.

What We Like
  • Medical-grade formula

  • Intended for daily use

  • Contains potent ingredients to show results

What to Consider
  • Requires a slow integration into skincare routine

Key Ingredients: 0.2% retinol, tripeptide concentrate, glaucine complex | Dosage: Small amount in PM after cleansing | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

If you're looking for a medical-grade product that packs a punch, check out this neck cream from SkinCeuticals. Formulated to fight signs of aging that occur on fragile neck skin, this product contains 0.2% retinol and a 0.25% tri-peptide concentrate to minimize the look of neck lines and wrinkles. After using it daily (and giving it some time to work), you should be left with a firm, smooth, and youthful-looking neck.

We'll admit—it's pricey. However, it's totally worth it when you consider how effective it is and that it was formulated by dermatologists. Tip: Since it contains retinol (which can be super irritating for some), we suggest slowly integrating this product into your routine rather than diving in and using it every single night. Start out by using it once or twice a week to build up a tolerance so that you can handle nightly use.

What We Like
  • Boosts collagen production

  • Increases cell turnover

  • Non-greasy

What to Consider
  • Can irritate sensitive skin

Key Ingredients: Rice protein, shiitake mushroom extract, antioxidants, peptides | Dosage: A good amount in AM and PM | Size: 2 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This super potent serum-like cream from SkinMedica is fortified with peptides (to boost the production of collagen) and antioxidants (to protect from free radical damage). It has a remarkable, luxurious texture (thanks to botanical extracts) that melts into skin without feeling greasy and encourages thicker, more elastic skin after continued use.

One thing to note: It can be irritating to those with sensitive skin, so we suggest easing into it. Start off by using it once a week until you can build up a tolerance to it (and use it more often).

Best for Uneven Skin Tone

Revision Skincare Nectifirm

Revision Skincare Nectifirm
PHOTO:

Amazon

What We Like
  • Vitamins C and E target discoloration and improve cell turnover

  • Hydrating and plumping

  • Air-tight pump dispenser

What to Consider
  • Hard to reach the last drops of product

Key Ingredients: Peptides, vitamin C, vitamin E | Dosage: 1 to 2 pumps twice a day | Size: 1.7 oz |  Cruelty-Free: Yes

The skin on your neck and décolletage ages differently than the skin on your face, which can sometimes lead to discoloration. This unique formula from Revision Skincare contains antioxidants, youth-boosting peptides, and plant extracts to help uneven-toned, rough, and crepey skin look a lot less noticeable. “This is a great option for firming the appearance of the skin of the neck and décolletage,” says Dr. King. You can even apply it along your jawline to firm up that area as well." The formula is more lightweight than others we've tried, so you can expect it to absorb into the skin quickly. Though we love how hygienic the tube packaging is, some say it can be hard to reach every last drop.

What We Like
  • Can also be used on the face and chest

  • Contains SPF

  • Targets discoloration, dryness, and fine lines

What to Consider
  • Can bleach clothes

Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene | Dosage: A layer 15 minutes before sun exposure and every 2 hours while outside | Size: 1.7 oz | SPF: 30 | Cruelty-Free: No

This formula from RoC has been clinically shown to reduce dark spots and discoloration, improve elasticity, restore radiance, hydrate, and reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles. What's more, it doubles as a non-comedogenic face cream and contains SPF for protection from your forehead down to your chest (Just be careful when applying—if you get some on your clothes, it can stain them). We recommend waiting for the cream to dry before getting dressed.

What We Like
  • Safe for daily use

  • Gentle and effective

  • Smooths wrinkles

What to Consider
  • Jar can break easily

Key Ingredients: Phyto-retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid | Dosage: Good amount in AM and PM after cleansing | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Retinol is undoubtedly one of the best anti-aging ingredients out there for both the face and neck, but it can come with irksome side effects (like irritation, redness, and dryness) that can be even more common on the neck. “Because the skin of the neck is thin and contains fewer oil glands compared to the face, the neck may get irritated more easily by ingredients like retinol,” explains Dr. King. 

That’s why we appreciate that this alternative relies on the natural, plant-based retinol alternative phyto-retinol to help deliver similar wrinkle-smoothing effects without the accompanying redness, dryness, or irritation. Peptides further up the anti-aging ante, while hyaluronic acid leaves the skin nice and hydrated. Just keep in mind that because it comes in a glass jar, you'll need to be extra careful when handling it. One slip off the counter can cause the jar to break.

What We Like
  • Prevents future damage

  • Fades discoloration and signs of aging

  • Lightweight texture

What to Consider
  • We wish there was more product per container

Key Ingredients: Glycerin, niacinamide, alpha-lipoic acid | Dosage: Pat a small amount in AM and PM | Size: 1 oz | SPF: 25 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This SPF formula from Perricone MD treats signs of skin aging with alpha-lipoic acid (an ingredient known to boost collagen production) while niacinamide helps fade discoloration and strengthens the skin barrier. With continued use, it's said to smooth crepey skin, reduce the look of sagging, and prevent future signs of aging. Best of all, it has a lightweight formula that absorbs easily into the skin. The only thing we're iffy about is the size of the jar (it's one ounce), given the price.

What We Like
  • Roller ball applicator for easy application

  • Absorbs quickly

  • Increases cell turnover

What to Consider
  • Takes some time to see results

Key Ingredients: Peptides, antioxidants, plant-based retinol alternative | Dosage: A good amount in AM and PM | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes 

This popular formula from Dermalogica contains antioxidants, anti-aging peptides, and a plant-based retinol (Rambutan extract, which helps to diminish the appearance of wrinkles ) to strengthen the skin's moisture barrier and smooth and tighten. Though it takes some time to see results, it helps tone skin and leaves it lifted.

We love the formula, but it's the packaging that makes this neck cream super unique. The rollerball applicator gently rolls up the neck, from the chest up to the jawline, in one swift motion. This avoids tugging and pulling on the skin (which further exacerbates wrinkles!)

What We Like
  • Clean ingredients

  • Powered by botanical extracts that firm skin

  • Won’t irritate sensitive skin

What to Consider
  • Contains nut oils that some people with allergies should avoid

Key Ingredients: Mandelic acid, colloidal gold, silk peptides, reishi mushroom | Dosage: 1 to 3 pumps once or twice a day | Size: 0.5, 2 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This neck cream from Elina Organics Skincare leans on a litany of natural and organic ingredients. To name a few: Hyaluronic and mandelic acids hydrate and fade discoloration, while silk peptides, reishi mushroom extract, and blue-green algae reduce inflammation and restore skin firmness. The only caveat: It contains sweet almond oil, which can cause a reaction in those with nut allergies.

What We Like
  • Helps even skin tone

  • Contains bakuchiol, niacinamide, and kojic acid

  • Can be used twice a day

What to Consider
  • Can change color over time

Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, bakuchiol, kojic acid | Dosage: Good amount in AM and PM after cleansing | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If hyperpigmentation is a concern, this formula from Urban Skin Rx boasts three different active ingredients (namely, niacinamide, bakuchiol, and kojic acid) to target and fade discoloration. It's intended for both day and night use, so thankfully, it has a smooth formula that glides on effortlessly and absorbs easily. Because of the active ingredients, some say the formula oxidizes and changes color over time, so try to use it before that happens.

What We Like
  • Made with antioxidant-rich ingredients

  • Absorbs easily

  • Rich and luxurious

What to Consider
  • Subtle fragrance, which not everyone may love

Key Ingredients: Saccharomyces cerevisiae extract, peptides, algae extract, apple fruit extract | Dosage: Small amount in AM and PM after cleansing | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you want a lifted neck, listen up: the Intensive Firming Neck Creme by Renée Rouleau firms, depuffs, and smooths the décolleté area. The formula is loaded with saccharomyces cerevisiae extract (an antioxidant-rich ingredient that improves moisture retention), peptides, de-puffing algae extract, and apple fruit extract (which promotes healthy cell renewal from within). For best results, the brand recommends using this cream a few times a week to encourage cellular turnover for younger-looking skin. If you’re sensitive to fragrance, you should avoid this one, as it contains a subtle vanilla scent.

FAQ
  • Are neck creams necessary?

    According to Dr. Baxt, yes, they are. “Some women will take good care of their face but will look 20 years older from the neck down,” she says. That said, it’s important to treat the delicate skin of the neck and chest with the same care and attention you give to your face. 

  • Do firming neck creams really work?

    The verdict is mixed. “Long-lasting results can only be achieved with consistent daily use and care,” Dr. Diaz says. “This is because your skin cells have a cycle of growth and renewal, which takes a minimum of four weeks. Several cycles of renewal must be completed for a total transformation.”

  • Can you use face cream on the neck?

    Dr. Diaz notes the skin on the neck is slightly thinner and more prone to redness and irritation than your face, so creams formulated specifically for the neck and chest tend to be much gentler. While it's best to reach for a neck cream, you can use your favorite face cream below the chin—just make sure it doesn't contain any harsh or irritating ingredients. 

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. Now that she’s in her 30s, she’s become even more diligent about taking care of the skin on places like her hands, chest, and, yes, neck. A neck cream is now a non-negotiable part of her skincare routine. She consulted with three experts to consider products for this roundup. Those experts include:

  • Dr. John Diaz, MD, Beverly Hills-based board-certified plastic surgeon with advanced specialty training in cosmetic surgery of the face, breasts, and body.
  • Dr. Hadley King, MD, a board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist based in New York City, New York.
  • Dr. Rebecca Baxt, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at BAXT CosMedical, specializes in cosmetic procedures and the treatment of acne and acne scarring, psoriasis, eczema, and skin cancer.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough neck creams from Black-owned and/or Black-founded businesses to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com, and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

Edited by Lauren Pardee
Article Sources
Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.
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