DO NOT LET THE NECK REVEAL YOUR AGE!!

 

The aging process is natural and inevitable.  After the face, neck being the visible area that shows the sign of aging but often overlooked in the skincare routines.

Majority of patients who visit aesthetic clinic are between 20s to 60s and they usually seek for acne or facial aging like pigmentation, sagginess and wrinkles. Neck is the area that people tend to be passive about seeking treatment as they think it may not be as noticeable as the face.

"Turkey neck" is a term that is used to describe the sagging or loose skin that develops under the chin or neck area. It is contributed by several factors including loss or skin elasticity, muscle weakness in addition to constant pull of gravity. UV radiation from the sun exposure may accelerates the aging process causing premature sagging.

Neck aging can be categorised as:

1. Fine wrinkle
2. Horizontal neckline
3. Platysmal banding
4. Skin laxity

Preventive measures to prevent premature aging

1. Wear sunscreen 

2. Medical grade skincare product

- Skin care containing retinol, hyaluronic acid and antioxidant : Neck skin is thicker and lack of sebaceous gland hence adequate moisturiser/hydration is essential to keep the hydration and to promote collagen and elastin production

What are the treatments available in the market?

1. Energy based device

• High Intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) causing focal thermal injury zone in the SMAS layer and platysmal muscle and hence induce dermal neocollagenesis and skin tightening
• Radiofrequency (RF)

2. Minimally invasive procedure

• Filler (eg HA) replenish the hydration and reduce the appearance of the wrinkles
• Botulinum toxin focusing on the platysma band
• Collagen stimulator (eg Radiesse) is used to stimulate collagen synthesis in the skin
• Cryolipolysis: removal of submental fat

The neck aging is a gradual process hence one have to adopt the preventive measures in order to maintain a youthful and rejuvenated appearance. Preventive measures which include sun protection, proper skincare routine and healthy lifestyle. For those who already having a visible neck aging sign, early intervention is essential. Seeking the professionals to provide personalised advice and get a proper treatment.