As we get older, the neck starts to show its age. Unfortunately, neck skin is prone to premature aging and is much thinner than the skin on the face. It also has trouble bouncing back after damage and begins to sag as the muscles and skin weaken.
If you want to look younger, it’s important to focus on more than just the face. An aging neck can make you look much older than you really are. The good news is there are several treatments available to rejuvenate the appearance of the neck, some of which are non-surgical.
How the Neck Ages
Neck aging occurs when collagen and elastin break down in the skin, causing it to sag and lose elasticity. Simultaneously, the neck muscles may weaken and “neck bands” can form. Together, this can create a “turkey neck” appearance that can cause self-consciousness and affect overall aesthetics. Sun damage, neglecting skincare, and other factors can all affect how the skin ages.
A surgical procedure known as a neck lift is the gold standard procedure for reducing neck bands and tightening the skin. However, many people are interested in rejuvenation without the expense, risks, and downtime of surgery.
Non-surgical procedures yield less dramatic results as compared to surgical methods but they are much more convenient and can greatly improve the appearance of an aging neck. Non-surgical techniques can improve skin texture and tighten sagging skin. They can also address minor wrinkles and create a more youthful overall appearance. The following non-surgical techniques can be great options for neck rejuvenation.
Microneedling and Radiofrequency Treatments
Microneedling is a non-surgical procedure for managing loose skin and wrinkles. Microneedling is often used with radiofrequency energy to enhance the production of hyaluronic acid, elastin, and collagen naturally. This is a non-invasive technique that offers a wide range of skin benefits.
During microneedling, the provider uses a small roller equipped with tiny needles to create controlled injuries that encourage the skin to renew itself. Microneedling resurfaces the skin’s superficial layer and enhances the radiofrequency’s tightening effect of stimulating elastin and collagen production.
Ultherapy
Ultrasound energy can safely penetrate deep tissues and gradually tighten the skin for a youthful glow without surgery. Ultherapy stimulates collagen synthesis, naturally rejuvenating the neck area.
Ultherapy allows the provider to have precise control over the procedure. They can target the deeper tissues and create long-lasting results. The Ultherapy procedure takes about 60 to 90 minutes and can lead to rejuvenation that lasts for an average of two years.
There is no downtime involved with Ultherapy. However, it is associated with redness and flushed skin, which will disappear after a few hours. You will notice significant results after about two to three months as the new collagen lifts and tightens the skin.
Fractionated Ablative Laser Therapy
Fractionated laser treatments can produce excellent results with less discomfort and downtime. The procedure involves treating some areas of the skin with laser energy while the adjacent area remains untreated, resulting in faster healing. The outcome is the growth of new collagen, skin contraction, and textural improvements.
Carbon dioxide or erbium lasers are associated with heat damage and selective destruction of the skin layers. Although fractional lasers do involve some downtime, it is less intense than for fully ablative lasers. After laser resurfacing, you can look forward to smoother, healthier skin with fewer wrinkles and a youthful glow. Fractionated lasers are most effective for people with mild to moderate signs of aging in the neck and face.
Botox
Botox is an injectable therapy effective in managing dynamic wrinkles, but the treatment can also help rejuvenate the neck. In some cases, experienced providers will use Botox injections off-label on the neck. The aim is to relax the neck muscles and reduce the “banding” that may occur as part of the aging process.
Generally, Botox injections are painless and do not require any significant downtime. The results begin to appear in about a week since the nerves and muscles need time to respond to the drug. However, the results are temporary and the treatment must be repeated every 3-4 months for ongoing rejuvenation.
Stop Hiding Your Neck
If you’re tired of hiding your neck behind turtlenecks and scarves, then it might be time to think about more effective solutions. You don’t have to commit to surgery to look younger and healthier—non-surgical neck rejuvenation is a great option for many people. You can even use non-invasive options as a “test run” to see if you like the results and want to consider surgery.
At Mirror Mirror Beauty Boutique, Houston, our expert technicians can help you decide on the treatment plan that’s right for you. They will walk you through your options and give you recommendations to help you meet your goals. To schedule a consultation, call our med spa at (281) 810-9083 today.