Don't Neglect Your Neck
By Woman's Day Staff
7 Years Younger
Over time, the thin skin on your neck loses elasticity- blame collagen-sapping sun damage and a natural loss of moisture that occurs as you age. This makes it more susceptible to wrinkles and the sagging effects of gravity, explains David Bank, MD, president of the New York State Society for Dermatology. Read on for three different strategies you can take to fight an aging neck. Photo credit: Keith Lathrop
The Dermatologist's Solution
"The easiest way to fight back is to slather the antiaging products you're probably already using on your face over your neck, too," says Dr. Bank. He also recommends following a daily skincare routine that includes washing with a gentle cleanser twice a day and using a moisturizer with SPF 30 in the morning and a hydrating cream at night. To boost collagen production and to fight free radicals, which age your skin, he suggests smoothing on a vitamin C-rich serum at least three times a week. Photo credit: Avalon, L'Oreal, CerVe
The Product Fix: These super-hydrating picks target your face but can work wonders on your neck, too.
Swipe on this lotion to replenish lost moisture and shield skin from harmful UV rays. L'Oréal Paris Youth Code SPF 30 Day Lotion, $24.99; at drugstores.
Packed with antioxidants, this serum stimulates collagen production and helps even out skin tone. Avalon Organics Vitamin C Renewal Vitality Facial Serum, $25.49; at Walmart.
At night, use a cream with hyaluronic acid to attract and trap water molecules on the skin's surface and niacinamide to repair damaged cells. CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM, $13.99; at Walgreens.
Fight signs of aging while you sleep.
The Makeup Trick
Bronzer is a secret weapon you can use to make the skin on your neck appear tighter and toned. Here's how: Using a large powder brush, sweep bronzing powder up the center of your neck from just above your collarbone toward your chin, suggests makeup artist Sharonah Rapseik, founder of Spa Holistica in New York City. "Sagging and wrinkles are more pronounced in this area, and the bronzer darkens it a bit, creating a shadow effect that camouflages imperfections." Look for a matte bronzer (sparkly versions will only attract attention) in a shade that will blend in nicely with your natural skin tone. Photo credit: Thinkstock
Master these 5 tricky makeup techniques.
The Home Remedy
It's time to exercise-your neck muscles, that is. "This can tighten and lift your skin," says Dr. Bank. His recommended routine: Sit up straight and tilt your head back so you're looking at the ceiling. Bring your bottom lip up over your top lip, as if you're trying to touch your nose, and hold the position for 10 seconds. Repeat 10 times. "Some of my patients who've performed this little trick daily have told me that they saw a difference in as little as six weeks," he says. Photo credit: Thinkstock
Check out 8 home remedies that really work.
Original article appeared on WomansDay.com.
You Might Also Like:
8 Bizarre Beauty Tricks
9 Bad Habits That Are Good for You
Our Top Beauty Tips
The Best Sex Positions for Every Situation
8 Surprising Health Benefits of Sex
Become a fan of Woman's Day on Facebook and Twitter.
