Sagging Neck

Sagging neck or sagging neck skin is the problem that results from loss of skin elasticity. This problem is a common outcome of the natural process of aging, that causes the skin to lose its elasticity and then sag or hang down. A sagging neck, no doubt can be a big cosmetic problem. However, neck skin can be firmed with some simple measures like, regular moisturizing and skin firming exercises. But, before going into the details of treatment options available for sagging neck, let's take a brief look at the causes, which would help to understand the condition.

Sagging Neck Causes

Sagging neck skin is the result of loss of collagen and elastin, which are the fibrous scleroproteins of the skin, that maintain skin elasticity and firmness, against the gravitational pull. As we grow old, the production of these proteins slows down, resulting in the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin. At the same time, the production of new skin cells also get reduced due to growing age. Reduced levels of hyaluronic acid, which plays a significant role in the growth of skin cells too can cause the skin to become loose. Apart from these, excessive exposure to sunlight and free radicals are some other important factors for causing premature aging of the skin of face and neck.

Sagging Neck Treatment

Aging is an inevitable process and so is sagging neck. However, it can be delayed with appropriate skin care. Basically, there are three types of treatment options available for sagging neck, use of appropriate skin care products, skin firming exercises and neck lift surgery. Neck lift surgery is performed by the cosmetologists, and it can no doubt improve the look of the neck. However, like other types of surgery, this one also poses certain risks, including the risk of swelling, surgical scar and nerve injury, if the nerves of the skin and muscle tissues get damaged, while pulling the skin by the surgeon.

Skin Care for Sagging Skin
Therefore, it is preferable to try out the less invasive methods or sagging neck solutions to begin with. The first method is to nourish your skin with regular moisturizing. Proper skin care for the neck is as important as for the other parts of the body. Use a skin care product that can stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, and protect it from the harmful free radicals. Skin care products that contain vitamin A, E and coenzyme Q10 can prove excellent for making the skin firm and supple, while protecting it from free radical damage.

On the other hand, products that contain copper peptides and bio active form of keratin, known as cynergy TK can help to accelerate the production of collagen. Skin care products with hydroxy acids can help to exfoliate the dead skin cells, and promote the generation of new cells. Another active ingredient in a large number of anti-wrinkle or anti-aging creams is 'phytessence wakame'. It is the substance that can stimulate the production of hyalunoric acid, which is also required to maintain the elasticity of the skin.

Sagging Neck Exercises
Exercises for skin firming can also prove immensely helpful for sagging neck. One of the simplest neck exercises is to sit down and look up at the ceiling with the mouth closed, and then start the chewing motion in a way that your neck skin get stretched. Complete at least 20 chews at a time, and perform the exercise three times every day. Another sagging neck exercise would require you to stand in front of a mirror and jut out the chin as much as possible. Hold the chin in this position for about 5 to 10 seconds, and then relax the neck muscles. This chin exercise can also be done three times a day.

You can also perform neck flexion and neck extension to firm up the neck muscles and skin. Neck flexion refers to moving the head forward, while neck extension refers to leaning the head backward. When the neck is moved side to side, it is called lateral neck flexion. For performing neck flexion, lie down on your back and then slowly and gradually tuck your chin to the chest. Return to normal position and again repeat the process. For performing neck extension, you need to lie down on your stomach. Then move your head upwards, return to normal position and repeat the step. If you want to do lateral flexion, lie on your side and gently move or flex the neck towards the shoulder. After repeating for a few times, change the side and follow the same procedure.

If both skin care and exercises fail to tone and firm the neck skin, then the only option left is surgery, i.e. neck lift surgery. But, as has been mentioned already, surgery can pose certain risks, which should be discussed with an expert cosmetologist before opting for neck lift surgery. Sagging neck can be prevented or delayed for a considerable time period by taking appropriate skin care, and with the help of muscle toning exercises. We usually spend a lot of time and money for improving the facial skin, but somehow forget to care of the neck. Like facial skin, skin of your neck is also more prone to developing early signs of aging. So, do not forget to take care of the neck in the same way as you do for your face. Also maintain the correct body position, and avoid slouching or sitting with your face down. While sitting, hold your head high and maintain a correct body position. Lastly, drink plenty of water and follow a balanced diet to get a more radiant and younger looking skin.