Tighten and Firm With These Top-Rated Neck Creams

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When it comes to skincare, chances are, you have a routine down. Cleanser, face serum, face cream, and maybe even a face oil might be second nature to you at this point. But are you extending the same care to the delicate skin on your neck?

Compared to your face, the skin on your neck is more vulnerable. “Your neck is composed of thinner skin, which makes it more prone to dryness,” says Dr. Margarita Lolis, a dermatologist in New Jersey. Because of this, it’s important to consider products that help ensure your neck is moisturized, especially as you age.

“Neck-firming creams are a great place to start—and they do work,” says Dr. Karan Lal, a plastic surgeon and dermatologist in Arizona. Creams formulated specifically for your neck work in ways that face creams can’t—not only do they keep your neck hydrated, but many neck creams are also formulated with specific ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, and peptides to specifically address “tech neck” and “turkey neck.” Neck creams have to strike the perfect balance—they need to be potent enough to work, but they also need to be gentle enough to not inflame the delicate skin around your neck. That's why they fall into a

If you want to mix a neck cream into your routine, Lolis says you should make sure any formula you choose has moisturizing ingredients like lipids or humectants alongside any stronger actives like retinol to ensure your neck doesn’t get any irritation. Ahead, find our picks for the 21 best neck creams on the market to moisturize and treat your neck.

TL Advanced Tightening Neck Cream PLUS

The latest iteration of the brand’s bestselling formula, this is the holy grail of neck creams. When you slather it all over your neck and décolleté, expect minimized wrinkles, firmer texture, and an overall smoother finish. Thanks to a patented Alpha-3 Peptide, this cream works to improve elasticity and lift the skin. Additionally, it includes brightening clary sage extract and antioxidant-rich spilanthol to reduce inflammation.

Key ingredients: Alpha-3 Peptide, clary sage extract, spilanthol

Best for: Normal, dry, combination, oily skin

Size: 0.25-3.4 oz.

Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “Though I’m lucky to not have many visible wrinkles on my neck (yet), I think using a neck cream is a great preventative approach to take. This one from Strivectin is well-regarded as the holy grail of neck creams. When you put it on, it’s easy to see why—this cream has an immediate tightening effect, and it makes the skin on my neck impossibly soft.” —Katie Berohn, beauty editor

Neck Firming Cream

Yeouth’s neck cream is chockfull of antioxidants like green tea, which encourages cell healing, and vitamin C, a powerhouse ingredient that fights free radicals that cause aging. Also included is squalene for deep hydration.

Key ingredients: Squalane, vitamin C

Best for: All skin types

Size: 2 oz.

Amazon rating: 4/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “This neck cream leaves skin extremely soft immediately after you apply it. It takes a minute to rub in, but once it’s on the skin, it sinks in and doesn’t leave any film. It’s very lightly scented, though my only qualm is that it seems to take on a bit of the plastic smell of its container. For the price, I think this is a really great option for a neck cream.” —Katie Berohn

Retinol Moisturizer Anti Aging Night Face Cream

This potent moisturizer is like an undo button for sun damage. It features retinol, vitamin C, green tea extract, and hyaluronic acid to address wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.

Key ingredients: Retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid

Best for: All skin types

Size: 3.4 oz.

Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “This is one amazing product and it goes on super smooth and super easy. It leaves my skin feeling refreshed and smooth and I never look oily when I wake up in the morning. It firms my skin and feels great.”

Neck Correct Cream

Although you could very well extend your facial serums and moisturizers down to your neck and decolletage, they’re not necessarily the best for that specific area, especially because the skin is thinner and may be more reactive. This neck cream actually works to treat the skin on your neck thanks to ingredients that improve skin elasticity.

Key ingredients: Green microalgae, lemon balm and shitake mushroom extract

Best for: All skin types

Size: 2 oz.

Dermstore rating: 4.12/5 stars

Our expert says: “Many neck and décolleté creams are products with retinol and are re-labeled to include ‘neck’ in the packaging. But, the SkinMedica Neck Correct Cream is formulated specially to address neck concerns, including dermal thickness, elasticity, platysma muscle, and platysmal bands, as well as free-radical damage.” —Dr. Mona Gohara

Nectifirm

Pricey, yes, but this science-backed cream produces incredible results and is beloved by dermatologists. Dr. Lolis says this is hands-down her favorite neck cream. The formula packs a blend of five peptides, vitamin C, and plant extracts for brightening and wrinkle-smoothing results. Even better, it comes in a tube, too, so you don’t have to reach into a jar.

Key ingredients: Peptides, vitamins C and E, plant extracts

Best for: Aging skin

Size: 1.7 oz.

Revision Skincare rating: 4.9/5 stars

Our expert says: “It is very hydrating and makes your skin feel so smooth. I also love the consistency.” —Dr. Lolis

Retinol Reform

When looking for a skin tightening cream, Dr. Arash Akhavan recommends opting for one that is retinol-based, as it can help boost collagen production. For even more potent results, you can mix in a retinol underneath a neck cream. This retinol is formulated with aloe vera to avoid unnecessary irritation as you introduce retinol into your routine. Lactic acid also helps gently exfoliate skin.

Key ingredients: Retinol, lactic acid, aloe vera

Best for: Normal, dry, combination, oily skin

Size: 1 oz.

Sephora rating: 4.2/5 stars

A Sephora reviewer says: “I’ve been using Shani Darden Retinol Reform for three weeks. I’ve had no skin irritation like you get from many retinol products. The texture of my skin overall has greatly improved. My redness and uneven coloring and hyperpigmentation has also decreased in just 3 weeks. It takes such a small amount of product to cover my face and neck.”

The Neck Serum

This product is specifically formulated to target signs of aging on the neck. It is packed with peptides to boost collagen production and ultimately promote a more youthful appearance. At the same time, rosewater adds a soothing element since the skin on our necks is so delicate. Plus, niacinamide helps brighten and even out skin tone.

Key ingredients: Niacinamide, peptides

Best for: Aging, dry skin

Size: 1.7 oz

Sephora rating: 4.6/5 stars

A Sephora reviewer says: “Now in my mid-40s, I definitely needed some tightening and smoothing of the skin. This neck serum by Nécessaire is lightweight, goes on smooth, and absorbs immediately without any sticky residue. I used this as a part of my morning skin routine and felt well-moisturized from the start and definitely can see improvement in my neck skin texture and firmness with consistent use.”

Restorative Neck Complex

Alastin is known for its effective formulations that are often sold at dermatologists’ offices to accompany in-office treatments. The Neck Complex, in particular, is a favorite of Dr. Lolis and Dr. Elizabeth Houshmand. In addition to addressing crepey skin and wrinkles, it also helps nix redness and discoloration while boosting hydration. It’s recommended to be used morning and night and applied in upward strokes on the neck.

Key ingredients: Peptides, antioxidants, flax seed extract

Best for: Aging skin

Size: 1.7 oz.

Alastin rating: 4.5/5 stars

Our expert says: “Its patented technology not only works on building collagen, but also builds elastin.”—Dr. Lolis

Ultra Smoothing Neck Repair

Crepe Erase has made a name for itself when it comes to tightening the skin and reducing the appearance of aging. The brand claims its products will leave skin looking smoother, tighter, and youthful, with help from a blend of retinol, peptides, and a proprietary TruFirm peptide Complex to boost collagen and elastin production.

Key ingredients: Encapsulated retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid

Best for: Aging skin

Size: 1.7 oz.

Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars

An Ulta reviewer says: “I’m delighted to say that after only two weeks I am noticing a significant difference. My neck already looks firmer and that sagginess is already so much better/almost gone.”

Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil

You might be familiar with Neutrogena’s other cult-favorite skincare products, but have you tried their retinol face and neck cream? With over 8,000 reviews raving about how immediate results were, this affordable option will be quite the bang for your buck.

Key ingredients: Retinol

Best for: Dry, aging

Size: 1 oz.

Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “Knowing my skin is sensitive, I lightly applied at night for a few months and saw the difference! The oil absorbs very well and left my face very soft and the wrinkles have definitely softened. I just started using the oil evening and morning, and I have received compliments on my skin! Very satisfied.”

Benefiance Concentrated Neck Contour Treatment

Shisheido’s concentrated neck cream just works. The cream not only nourishes and moisturizes via glycerin to eliminate those dreaded lines, but also utilizes chlorella extract and ginseng extract to help prevent wrinkles.

Key ingredients: Glycerin, chlorella extract, ginseng extract

Best for: All skin types

Size: 1.8 oz.

Nordstrom rating: 4.5/5 stars

A Nordstrom reviewer says: “Just a dab of the cream gives the skin moisture that lasts all day or night.”

Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream

Founded by cosmetics chemist Ron Robinson, this moisturizer is made for all skin types and provides ultimate hydration for the face that can also be used on the neck. Its lightweight feel is perfect for sensitive areas like the neck and decolletage, with ingredients like mushroom extract, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid to boost moisture levels and fight free radical damage. Ceramides and probiotics also help protect the skin barrier.

Key ingredients: Mushroom extract, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, ceramides

Best for: All skin types

Size: 1 oz.

Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “Leaves a beautiful glow to your face, non-greasy or shiny but just a great look and feel, perfect for year-round but especially for summer!”

Vitamin A-D-E Neck Cream

The skin on the neck is very delicate, so sometimes using any ordinary cream can be counterproductive to the nourishing and anti-aging effects desired. Utilizing antioxidant vitamins A, D, and E, plus nourishing hyaluronic acid and cocoa butter, the Mario Badescu cream is very rich in texture. Still, it absorbs quickly and works on even the most sensitive skin.

Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamins A, D, and E, cocoa butter

Best for: All skin types

Size: 1 oz.

Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “This is awesome! I had a rash on my neck for MONTHS because I couldn’t find a moisturizing product that didn’t irritate my super sensitive skin, but this cleared it up in two weeks! I LOVE it.”

Triple Firming Neck Cream

NeoStrata knew exactly what they were doing when they created this moisturizing and strengthening neck cream! With their hero ingredients, NeoGlucosamine to improve discoloration and Neocitriate and amino acids to thicken the skin, it’s easy to see why it’s a holy grail item.

Key ingredients: NeoGlucosamine, Neocitriate, amino acids

Best for: Dry, normal, oily

Size: 2.8 oz.

Dermstore rating: 4.5/5 stars

An ELLE contributor says: “When quarantine started and I found myself in a less-than-ideal WFH desk setup, I noticed the lines on my neck becoming more pronounced. I immediately ordered this cream, and I swear, within a week, I noticed a difference. It WORKS—like actually—and doesn’t cause any breakouts or irritation on my sensitive skin. Five stars!” —Jessica Roy, ELLE.com contributor

Multi-Correxion 5-in-1 Restoring Night Cream

You only need four weeks to see results from this drugstore favorite, which features vitamin E as an anti-aging ingredient. Immediately, it drops a moisture bomb on tired skin with glycerin and shea butter. Over time, it targets aging signs like wrinkles and sun damage and also includes SPF 30 to prevent discoloration and damage in the first place.

Key ingredients: Vitamin E, shea butter, glycerin

Best for: Dry, aging skin

Size: 1.7 oz.

Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “It truly works for me. It softens my wrinkles and just gives me a healthy, slight glow.”

Confidence in a Cream Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer

Hundreds of customers mention this neck cream provides fast results in up to a week. It’s powered by elastin and collagen to quickly firm skin, as well as barrier-boosting ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter to keep moisture locked in.

Key ingredients: Elastin, collagen, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, shea butter

Best for: All skin types

Size: 0.5-4 fl. oz

Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “This is the first neck cream I ever tried, and I was pleasantly surprised given the affordability for the results you get,” she says. “The cream is thick and absorbs well into the skin. I applied it in an upward motion and noticed a difference in my superficial wrinkle over the course of a month. If you are starting out with neck creams or want to take preventative measures, this is a great option.” —Danielle James, ELLE.com beauty director

PRO Neck Correct Advanced Repair Serum

Prai’s neck serum comes packaged in an innovative, roller tube delivery system. The roller helps boost circulation and provides a cooling effect on the skin, while providing a gentle lymphatic draining effect for a more sculpted neck.

Key ingredients: Red algae, goldenrod extract, black tea ferment

Best for: All skin types

Size: 4 fl. oz

An ELLE editor says: “The packaging allows you to easily apply the formula—so there’s no reason to skip this important step. It feels cool against my neck and is quite relaxing. The serum absorbs more quickly if after you apply it, you lightly press it into your neck. ” —Danielle James

Techno Neck Perfecting Cream

Formulated especially for the concerns that come with tech neck—such as crepiness, dryness, sagging, laxity, and uneven texture—this potent cream packs a slew of anti-aging ingredients as well as the label’s patented NOw complex, which harnesses the power of nitric oxide in the body to stimulate collagen production and smooth the skin. In a clinical trial, the product helped reduce horizontal lines on the neck and improve skin texture in just 12 weeks.

Key ingredients: NOw Complex, peptides, fruit extracts, niacinamide, squalane

Best for: All skin types

Size: 1.7 oz.

LAZ Skincare rating: 4.9/5

Our expert says: “[The formula] is not overly greasy and is fragrance-free, dye-free, paraben-free, and safe for all skin types.”—Dr. Houshmand

Super Anti-Aging Neck and Décolleté Cream

Made with highly concentrated ingredients to specifically target the neck and décolleté area, this cream addresses various concerns on the neck, including dry skin, fine lines and wrinkles, and crepiness. Ceramides work in tandem with shea butter, marula oil, and mango seed oil to hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier, while mangosteen offers a plumping effect.

Key ingredients: Ceramides, shea butter, marula oil, mango seed oil, mangosteen, prickly pear, purslane

Best for: All skin types

Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

Dr. Barbara Sturm rating: 4.9/5

A Dr. Barbara Sturm reviewer says: “I’ve been looking for a great neck and décolleté cream for years, and here it is! It is velvety and light and long-lasting with beautiful results. I highly recommend it.”

Tripeptide-R Neck Repair Cream

Skinceuticals’ neck cream is made with wrinkle-smoothing top of mind. The star ingredient, retinol, works wonders against tech neck by increasing cell turnover. Since the skin on your neck can be more delicate, this neck cream uses a slow-release retinol.

Key ingredients: Retinol, tripeptide concentrate, glaucine complex

Best for: All skin types

Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

Skinceuticals rating: 4/5

A Skinceuticals reviewer says: “I really love this product. It doesn't irritate my skin at all and I have moderately sensitive skin. I’ve noticed improved horizontal lines and firmness. I use it once a day, sometimes morning and night.”

Ageless Revitalizing Neck Cream Revitalizing Neck Cream

Tatcha’s neck cream harnesses high-powered antioxidants to treat fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage. A blend of botanical actives help firm the skin while peony and vitamin C work together to brighten skin. It also contains Japanese superfoods that work to soften and moisturize skin.

Key ingredients: Vitamin C, peony, botanical actives

Best for: All skin types

Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

Tatcha rating: 4.5/5

A Tatcha reviewer says: “This is the best neck cream I have ever purchased, and I have purchased a lot. I am 68 and I have noticed a big change in the appearance of wrinkles and loose skin on my neck. I highly recommend.”

Do neck firming creams actually work?

If you’re concerned about loose skin, fine lines, and wrinkles around the neck area, topical creams can minimize those issues. “Neck-firming creams are a great place to start—and they do work,” says Dr. Lal. However, like most skincare, results take time. “Neck firming creams will not provide overnight results, with most clinical products requiring 12 weeks of use before results are visible,” adds Dr. Kevin Sadati. While neck creams may not provide the same results that in-office treatments would, “they do help add moisture to the delicate skin around the neck, which can over time smooth the texture and reduce the appearance of wrinkles in the skin. But it is best to pair products with a procedure to achieve desired results,” says Dr. Akhavan.

What ingredients are good to have in a neck firming cream?

The best ingredients to look for are ones that hydrate and nourish the skin. “Hyaluronic acid, peptides, retinol, alpha hydroxy acids, and squalane are some examples of good ingredients to look for in a neck cream, as they are ultra hydrating and beneficial for increasing collagen production,” says Dr. Akhavan. For increased anti-aging, “Good neck creams will have a retinol, which stimulates collagen and also helps fade dyspigmentation that occurs from sun exposure,” says Dr. Lal. However, it’s important to remember that retinol is a powerful ingredient. “The skin on the neck area is thin and sensitive,” says Sadati. He adds, “It’s best to use retinol products on the neck every three days and gradually increase the frequency as tolerated. Applying moisturizer after will help soothe the skin and help it to appear smoother.”

Who should be using a neck firming cream?

According to Dr. Lolis, everyone should have a neck cream in their beauty routine. “It should be incorporated into your skincare routine just as you would incorporate, for example, an under-eye cream.” She believes that your neck is often neglected, which is compounded by the fact that the area has less subcutaneous fat, making it more prone to developing skin laxity. Thus, “the earlier you start using a neck cream, the better,” she adds.

What in-office treatments can you receive for the neck area?

For more intense and long-lasting results, in-office treatments are available. “There are both surgical and non-surgical options available for neck rejuvenation,” says Dr. Sadati. He adds, “If you are looking for dramatic improvement, a neck lift will deliver these results. Depending on your age and the condition of the skin, non-surgical options such as radiofrequency, microneedling, resurfacing lasers, and injectables can also provide significant improvement.”

Meet The Experts

Dr. Kevin Sadati is a plastic surgeon based in Newport Beach, California.

Dr. Karan Lal is a board-certified and celebrity dermatologist. He is currently the Director of Pediatric Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery at Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Dr. Arash Akhavan is a board-certified dermatologist and founder and director of The Dermatology & Laser Group in New York City.

Dr. Margarita Lolis is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Skin Laser & Surgery Specialists in New York City.

Dr. Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Houshmand MD in Dallas, Texas.

Dr. Mona Gohara is a board-certified dermatologist and associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine.

Why trust ELLE Beauty?

As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items.

For this piece, Tatjana Freund and Katie Berohn interviewed dermatologists to find the best electric razors. spoke with experts and industry leaders about anti-aging neck products. Freund also tested a few top-rated products and pored over reviews for dozens of others, evaluating each on their features and customer feedback.

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