What You Need To Know About Skincare For Your Neck

Leave it to winter weather to show you where you've been skimping on the moisturizer — namely, your neck. With so many options to choose from when it comes to lotions, it's no wonder so many of us are skeptical about having a specific cream for our necks. So, can you use your regular body lotion? What about your face lotion? Is there a different process for different seasons? With all of the questions, there are a few things you should keep in mind when taking care of this delicate skin.

The skin on your neck is rather thin with a different cellular composition than the rest of your body, The Cut notes. Dr. Dendy Engleman tells the outlet that, "Neck skin is different. The dermis is thinner and more prone to wrinkling. When you don't have a thick dermis, there isn't as much collagen in the skin, and all the support to keep it from wrinkling." Similar to the skin on your eyelids, this area needs support to stay healthy.

Furthermore, your neck is an oil-free zone, meaning its particularly prone to dryness. With chapped, cracked skin, your neck won't look like the glowing skin you want unless you take care of it, plus it may prematurely age. "The neck has fewer sebaceous glands, which secrete oil. People with more sebaceous glands have better wound healing and fewer signs of aging."

Underpinning your skincare routine's importance even further, Elle explains that your neck is often the first place where your skin shows signs of aging.

Since the skin in this area proves extremely delicate and sensitive, it may not be wise to opt for a run-of-the-mill moisturizer that's loaded with fragrances and chemicals. Plus, many age-fighting creams and serums can be too harsh for this area, Elle notes. If your facial moisturizer contains retinol and other anti-aging ingredients, it may be best to choose a specific product to help with this area. When it's time to apply your lotion, the direction is important as well. Dr. Ellen Marmur recommends to, "Apply moisturizer from the base of the neck up to the jawline. This helps stimulate upward direction and prevents the pulling down of the skin."

On top of your new product, your new skin-healthy routine should include less screen time. An issue that many modern people face, tech neck can damage even the healthiest of skin after keeping your head facing downwards for long periods of time. The outlet explains that it's best to try to keep your phone or tablet at an eye level to avoid creasing of this delicate skin.

Of course, sun protection is also key in this process. Remember to always apply sunscreen south of your face for full coverage and to block any damaging rays. To keep this process as simple as possible, look for a cream with SPF and keep your neck covered in extreme temperatures for the full benefits!