Your neck is a delicate area that deserves as much attention as your face when it comes to skincare, says skin specialist Claire Scannell and owner of The Skin Lab. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can maintain the health and youthfulness of your neck, ensuring it remains a beautiful and radiant part of your overall appearance.
1. Extend Your Skincare Routine: Wash your neck as much as you wash your face! Your skincare routine should extend down to your neck. Apply your cleanser, toner, and moisturiser to your neck as well, ensuring it receives the same care as your face.
2. Gentle Cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser to clean your neck, removing dirt and pollutants. Avoid harsh soaps that can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
3. Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable: The neck is often exposed to the sun, making it prone to premature ageing. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen – preferably
SPF50 but at least SPF 30 daily – even on cloudy days, to protect against harmful UV rays.
4. Mind Your Posture: Maintaining good posture not only benefits your overall health but also prevents the formation of horizontal lines on your neck. Be mindful of your posture, and try to keep your head aligned with your shoulders.
5. Hydration is Key: Like the rest of your skin, the neck benefits from proper hydration. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin moisturised from the inside out, preventing dryness and promoting a youthful appearance.
6. Exfoliate Regularly: Include neck exfoliation in your skincare routine to remove dead skin cells and encourage cell turnover. Use a gentle exfoliant suitable for your skin type, aiming for 1-2 times a week.
7. Moisturise, Moisturise, Moisturise: Keep your neck moisturised to maintain its elasticity and prevent sagging. Choose a hydrating cream or
lotion that suits your skin type, and apply it in upward motions to promote circulation.
8. Neck Exercises: Incorporate neck exercises into your routine to strengthen the muscles and promote firmness. Simple stretches and rotations can help maintain the neck’s natural contours.
9. Avoid Constant Phone Tilting: Excessive tilting of your head while using your phone can contribute to ‘tech neck‘ leading to premature wrinkles. Hold your phone at eye level to reduce strain on the neck muscles.
10.Silk Pillowcases: A worthwhile investment! Switching to silk pillowcases can minimise friction between your skin and the pillow, reducing the risk of developing sleep lines. Silk is also gentle on the skin, preventing unnecessary pressure on the delicate neck area.
Claire Scannell has almost 20 years national and international experience in laser and skin treatments and continues to educate herself and her team to the highest standards within the ever evolving world of aesthetics, providing the very best of non-surgical treatments.