Sagging Neck Skin: How to Eliminate It?

1. Why is Neck Skin Prone to Sagging?

The entire body is covered by an outer layer of skin, which serves to protect the internal structures, regulate body temperature, and defend against external harmful agents. The skin is composed of three layers: the epidermis, dermis, and subcutis. However, the thickness of the skin varies across different areas of the body. Regions such as the eyes and neck have thinner skin structures compared to other areas.

Furthermore, these two areas have a relatively low fat tissue content and fewer sebaceous glands. These conditions contribute to the skin aging more rapidly than in other regions.

Over time, as bodily functions decline, external environmental factors can trigger the aging process and accelerate it. Wrinkles begin to appear, and the soft skin on the neck loses its firmness, signaling the start of sagging neck skin. A deficiency in collagen fibers leads to reduced skin elasticity, and the muscle tissues supporting the skin break down, causing the neck skin to sag and gradually form a drooping appearance, resembling a chicken's wattle. Weakening neck muscles result in the skin tending to stretch, leading to elongated sagging patches of skin hanging downwards.

Causes of Sagging Neck Skin:

• Time is perhaps the greatest enemy of the skin, and there’s no way to fight it. After reaching the age of 25, collagen and elastin levels decrease by about 1% each year. If the skin does not receive these nutrients from external sources, it may lead to a deficiency of these important proteins. Additionally, the destruction caused by external environmental factors can compromise the structure of the neck skin, resulting in dryness and sagging.
• Posture can affect the firmness of the neck skin. Maintaining a bent posture for extended periods may inadvertently create conditions for the neck skin to develop wrinkles. Poor sleeping positions, such as consistently using a pillow that is too high, can hinder blood circulation, causing the neck skin to age quickly. Lying on one side or pressing the face against a pillow can also facilitate the formation of wrinkles in the neck area.
• Environmental factors play a significant role. Not using sunscreen and proper protection when exposed to sunlight can cause the skin, including the neck, to be damaged by UV rays, leading to structural breakdown and sagging skin. UV rays can also destroy collagen and elastin, weakening the skin's connective tissue and reducing its elasticity.
• Genetics may also contribute, especially in individuals with early aging genes inherited from their parents. Sagging skin can occur at a relatively young age.
• Nutrient deficiencies can lead to sagging neck skin. If daily meals do not provide sufficient nutrients, including vitamins and minerals necessary for collagen and elastin production, it can result in sagging in the neck area.
• Improper skin care can be a factor. For instance, a lack of moisture in the neck skin can lead to dryness and a tendency to sag.
• Prolonged stress or tension can hinder the functioning of the sebaceous glands that secrete oil. Since the neck area has very few sebaceous glands, a lack of natural moisture can accelerate the aging process.
• Wearing tight clothing can compress the skin, leading to wrinkles in the neck area.
• Using stimulants such as alcohol, beer, or coffee can decrease blood circulation in the body and hinder the absorption of nutrients essential for healthy skin.

2. How to Prevent or Improve Sagging Neck Skin

Improving sagging neck skin can be achieved through several relatively simple methods. However, most of these methods are only effective for skin that shows early signs of aging and may not significantly improve skin that has already reached a severe sagging state.

Perform Neck Exercises to Improve Sagging Neck Skin: Neck exercises can help tighten the skin while stimulating the muscles and cells around the neck, making the skin firmer and reducing signs of aging and sagging. Some exercises include:

• Forehead Push: Place your hands on your forehead and push your head against your hands, holding for 10 seconds. Perform a similar exercise for the neck by placing your hands on the back of your neck and pressing, holding for another 10 seconds.
• Neck Tilt: Sit upright with your eyes looking up at the ceiling. Place your right hand on your collarbone and apply gentle pressure.

• Massage the Neck Skin to Reduce Sagging: Massage is an effective way to relax the neck skin while helping it become firmer and less saggy. Neck massages also help relax the spine and regenerate natural oils, reducing tension and fatigue in the neck muscles. Combining massage with essential oils or vitamin E can enhance effectiveness.
• Proper Care for the Neck Area to Prevent Sagging Skin: In addition to exercises that increase muscle tone and elasticity in the neck area, proper care can lead to firmer, smoother skin. Use a high-SPF sunscreen on the neck about 20 minutes before going outside, or wear protective clothing to shield the skin. Regularly moisturize the neck area, as it has fewer sebaceous glands, to maintain moisture balance and reduce wrinkle formation. Using face masks, such as cucumber masks or unsweetened yogurt masks, can also nourish the skin.
• Include Nutrient-Rich Foods for Neck Skin Health: Vitamin C is known for boosting collagen production, aiding in skin cell regeneration. Incorporate leafy greens and fruits rich in vitamin C into your diet. Unsaturated fatty acids, such as omega-3s, olive oil, and almonds, can also provide deep nourishment for quicker recovery from sagging.
• Supplement with Antioxidants: The skin is the body’s largest organ and is exposed to many damaging factors and oxidative processes. Supplementing with antioxidants helps combat skin damage caused by these factors.

3. Key Points to Note About Sagging Neck Skin

To improve sagging neck skin, consider the following:

• Limit or Avoid Sugar: Excessive sugar consumption can negatively impact overall health and is often underestimated. The breakdown of sugar in the digestive system produces substances that can degrade collagen, affecting skin structure.
• Limit Screen Time: Wrinkles on the skin are not solely due to aging. Frequent use of smart devices can increase neck wrinkles, even in those as young as 20. Keep your chin up regularly to reduce wrinkle formation in the neck.
• Avoid Fragrances on the Neck: Some perfumes contain light-sensitive substances that can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight.

Today, many methods focus on healthy skin care from within, which is becoming a popular trend among clients. These treatments emphasize improving the natural quality of the skin without interfering with its inherent structure. Profhilo is one such technology gaining traction in Vietnam, providing solutions for aging, sagging skin that lacks fat and elasticity. However, before applying this or any other treatment, it is essential to consult a qualified dermatologist and choose a reputable facility for the procedure.