Is ‘turkey neck’ reversible? There’s good news and bad news

When the skin on your neck begins to sag, often called a “turkey neck,” no topical product can truly reverse it. This is because sagging skin is caused by the breakdown of both elastin, the protein that allows your skin to “snap back” after being stretched, and collagen. While certain ingredients, like retinoids and vitamin C, can help to stimulate collagen production, they can’t rebuild lost elastin. Once elastin fibers are damaged, they can’t be replaced through creams or serums alone.

Do I need a neck cream?

If you are struggling with sagging neck skin, there is no need to buy a separate neck cream. You can use your face cream, such as Zerafite Wrinkle Defense, or prescription retinoids like tretinoin on your face and neck.

Neck skin is a little more reactive, however, so start a retinoid every three days on top of a moisturizer at first. Over time, your skin can adjust to more frequent use, helping to smooth fine lines and improve overall texture.

Skin treatments for drooping neck skin

If sagging skin is already noticeable, topical products alone won’t provide dramatic results. Instead, talk to your dermatologist about the best skin-tightening treatments like lasers, radiofrequency and high-intensity ultrasound.

These devices work by delivering controlled heat to the deeper layers of skin where collagen is produced. At around 149 degrees Fahrenheit (65°C), the heat causes collagen fibers to contract and tighten, while also triggering a wound-healing response that stimulates the production of new collagen over time. Thus, to be effective, the device must be able to heat the skin to this specific temperature. Talk to your dermatologist to find the most effective device for your skin’s specific needs.

Can sagging skin be prevented?

Yes. Topical ingredients work better to prevent sagging skin than to treat it. If you anticipate major weight changes, like from pregnancy or from using Ozempic or other weight-loss medications, start using a firming moisturizer to get ahead of loose skin. Some of the best skin-firming ingredients include exosomes, retinoids and vitamin C.

Bottom line

While neck creams can help to temporarily smooth and hydrate sagging skin, topical products are not able to completely reverse a “turkey neck” or other loose skin. There are, however, several nonsurgical skin-tightening devices that can help to improve the appearance of sagging skin. Firming creams can be used to help prevent sagging skin.

I am now seeing patients at Body and Beauty in Palm Beach and will begin in Bay Harbor, FL in February. Questions/comments? Come ask me on reddit r/skintypesolutions