How Do I Get Rid of the Lines on My Neck? – 6 Rejuvenation Treatments for Neck Lines/Tech Neck

While our attention often gravitates towards the fine lines on our faces, it’s important to acknowledge that wrinkles can also manifest on the skin below our chin. Horizontal lines on the neck, often referred to as neck lines, “turkey neck” or “tech neck,” have become increasingly common even in younger individuals due to prolonged periods spent looking down at electronic devices. The development of neck wrinkles is a prevalent aspect of ageing, influenced by a combination of internal factors such as genetics, as well as external factors like environmental elements.  These lines can be a source of frustration for many individuals, as they can make the neck appear aged and less smooth.

Before we dive in the several effective solutions available to help reduce the appearance of neck lines and restore a more youthful-looking neck, it’s important to understand what neck lines are and the many factors that causes it.

In essence, neck lines or wrinkles refer to the creases that form on the skin of the neck, presenting in two distinct manners. First, there are the horizontal lines, resembling creases or lines commonly referred to as “Necklace Lines” or “Tech Neck.” The term “Necklace Lines” stems from their appearance, akin to the indentation left by a necklace worn frequently, while “Tech Neck” is coined due to its prevalence among individuals who spend prolonged periods hunched over electronic devices.

Conversely, vertical lines appear as distinct bands running vertically along the neck. This manifestation is often dubbed “turkey neck,” a moniker derived from its resemblance to the characteristic loose and wrinkled skin of a turkey’s neck.

The differentiation between these two types of neck wrinkles is crucial in understanding their underlying causes and potential treatment approaches. While horizontal lines are often attributed to factors like repetitive neck movements and prolonged sun exposure, vertical lines, reminiscent of the sagging skin seen in ageing turkeys, are primarily associated with a loss of skin elasticity and tone in the platysmal bands.

Neck lines can arise from a complex interplay of intrinsic and environmental factors. Intrinsic elements, such as genetics and the natural ageing process, are beyond individual control. On the other hand, environmental factors are things we can influence. These include UV exposure and smoking, both of which detrimentally affect collagen and elastin—key proteins responsible for maintaining skin’s vitality and youthfulness—thereby exacerbating the formation of wrinkles.

Another noteworthy factor contributing to neck lines is the habitual act of looking down at electronic devices like phones or laptops. This repetitive motion can worsen horizontal folds, making them more pronounced with time. As for vertical banding, it occurs when the neck muscle, known as the platysma, loses firmness and its edges become more dynamic, resulting in the formation of visible vertical bands.

1. Injectable Treatments:

Injectable treatments such as Botox, fillers, and Profhilo offer effective solutions for horizontal neck lines. Botox relaxes the neck muscles, diminishing dynamic wrinkles caused by repetitive movements. Hyaluronic acid fillers add volume to smooth out wrinkles, while Profhilo, a bioremodelling skin booster, not only hydrates the skin but also stimulates collagen and elastin production, improving skin elasticity and reducing fine lines. These non-invasive treatments provide quick and noticeable improvements, restoring a smoother, more youthful neck contour.

2. DermaPen Microneedling:

This procedure involves using a device with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, triggering collagen and elastin production. When paired with PRP (platelet-rich plasma) – rich in growth factors that promote tissue repair and rejuvenation, it enhances the effects of the treatment, promoting faster healing and collagen synthesis and in turn improving skin tone, texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

3. Exilis Elite (Radio Frequency + Ultrasound Skin Tightening):

Exilis Elite utilises a combination of radiofrequency and ultrasound energy to deliver controlled heating to the deeper layers of the skin. This stimulates collagen remodelling and contraction, leading to tighter, smoother skin on the neck and reducing the appearance of horizontal lines.

4. Laser Therapy:

Laser treatments such as fractional laser resurfacing or non-ablative laser therapy can target horizontal neck lines by stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture. These treatments can be tailored to the specific needs of the patient, with minimal downtime and noticeable results.

5. Topical Treatments:

Skincare products such as SkinCeuticals offers a range of advanced skincare formulations containing ingredients like retinoids, peptides, and antioxidants. These products complement professional treatments by promoting collagen production, improving skin texture, and reducing the signs of ageing on the neck. SkinCeuticals’ formulations are specifically designed to target ageing concerns, providing patients with effective options for at-home skincare routines to enhance the results of their professional treatments.

6. Surgical Procedures:

When horizontal neck lines are accompanied by significant skin laxity and sagging, surgical intervention may be the most effective solution. A facelift/neck lift procedure involves the expertise of a board-certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Allen Rezai, to address not only horizontal neck lines but also excess skin and muscle laxity in the neck and jawline area. For patients primarily concerned with horizontal neck lines and sagging skin in the neck area, a neck lift may be performed as a standalone procedure or in combination with a facelift. Excess fat may be removed via liposuction, and the underlying muscles are tightened to improve neck contour. Any excess skin is trimmed away, and the remaining skin is redraped for a firmer, more defined neck profile. Facelift and neck lift procedures are highly customisable to address each patient’s unique concerns and anatomy. These surgeries offer long-lasting results, effectively reducing the appearance of horizontal neck lines and restoring a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance to the neck and lower face.

Combating horizontal lines on the neck, whether they’re caused by repetitive movements, sun exposure, or the modern phenomenon of “tech neck,” requires a multi-faceted approach. From non-invasive injectable treatments like Botox, to advanced procedures such as microneedling and radio frequency, there are numerous options available to restore a smoother, more youthful neck contour.

Furthermore, topical treatments like SkinCeuticals skincare products can enhance the results of professional treatments and support ongoing skincare routines. However, for individuals with significant skin laxity and sagging, surgical procedures such as facelifts and neck lifts offer long-lasting solutions.

If your neck lines are (or the general appearance of your neck) are starting to bother you, schedule a detailed consultation with Dr. Allen Rezai, Senior Consultant, Plastic, Aesthetic, and Reconstructive Surgeon and founder of Elite Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Group in Dubai, to determine the most suitable treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. Don’t let neck lines detract from your confidence and appearance any longer—take action today to achieve a smoother, rejuvenated neck and regain your youthful glow.

For details about procedures and treatments or for a consultation, advice and prices from our Dubai clinic please call +971 4 431 2396 or use our ONLINE FORM.