Neck Cream Guide: What to Look For and What to Skip

The skin on the neck is thinner and more sensitive than facial skin, so it can show signs of ageing early. This guide is based on advice from the Cleveland Clinic, and it focuses on ingredients rather than brand names.

What causes neck lines

The Cleveland Clinic lists sun damage as the most cited cause, followed by smoking, air pollution, clogged pores and natural ageing. So-called tech neck, from looking down at a phone, can also add horizontal lines.

Ingredients worth looking for

• Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher on the neck and chest. Mineral filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are described as especially effective.
• Antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E or ferulic acid, applied in the morning.
• A lower-strength retinol at night, used every other day at first, because the neck has fewer oil glands and is more prone to dryness and irritation.
• Hyaluronic acid, morning and night, to hydrate and support the skin barrier.

What to skip

The Cleveland Clinic advises reading ingredient lists rather than trusting marketing claims, and notes that a high price does not guarantee better results. Increase the strength of any active only if there is no burning or redness.

A simple routine

Cleanse the face and neck, apply an antioxidant, then sunscreen in the morning. At night, apply retinol on alternate evenings, then a moisturiser. If you are unsure, speak to a dermatologist.

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