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If you’re reading this, you probably have your skin care regimen down pat. When it comes to a good cleanser, face serum, and face moisturizer, you know exactly what you’re looking for to suit your particular needs. However, despite all the extensive attention we give our faces, our necks usually don’t get nearly as much pampering as they deserve.
It’s a shame, considering the fact that the skin on the neck is delicate and vulnerable to premature signs of aging, like sagging and wrinkles. “Your neck is composed of thinner skin, which makes it more prone to dryness,” says Dr. Margarita Lolis, a dermatologist in New Jersey. Adding one of the best neck creams to your arsenal is a surefire way to ensure that your neck and décolletage are well taken care of.
Our top picks for the best neck creams in 2024
“Neck-firming creams are a great place to start—and they do work,” says Dr. Karan Lal, a plastic surgeon and dermatologist in Arizona. Some richer face creams will do the trick, and you can always extend the area you moisturize all the way down to your neck. However, some specialized formulas are infused with “tech neck”- and “turkey neck”-fighting ingredients, like peptides, retinol, and vitamin C. These products are efficacious yet gentle, making them perfect for protecting and treating the more fragile skin in the area.
Thanks to expert insights, customer reviews, and fellow editors who tested several options, we’ve rounded up the 21 best neck creams for a smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking neck.
Pros
- Anti-aging
Cons
- Takes time to see full results
The latest iteration of the brand’s bestselling formula 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. Read our full review of StriVectin neck cream here.
Key ingredients: Alpha-3 Peptide, clary sage extract, spilanthol
Best for: Normal, dry, combination, oily skin
Size: 0.25-3.4 oz.
StriVectin rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “Though I’m lucky not to 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
Pros
- Tightening and softening
Cons
- Scent may be unpleasant to some
Yeouth’s neck cream is chock full of antioxidants, like green tea, which encourages cell healing, and vitamin C, a powerhouse ingredient that fights free radicals that cause aging. Squalene is also included 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
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Pros
- Anti-aging
Cons
- Small size
NeoStrata knew exactly what they were doing when they created this moisturizing and strengthening neck cream! With its 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.
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 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
Pros
- Absorbs rapidly
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May run out quickly
As we age, our skin loses elasticity and firmness, resulting in jowls and that dreaded “turkey neck” effect. This serum harnesses the power of exosomes derived from pineapple stems to influence cellular behavior at the molecular level. As a result, over the course of a couple of weeks, you’ll notice that your jawline looks more contoured, wrinkles appear smoother and firmer, and your double chin seems to be shrinking.
Key ingredients: NX35, glycerin, caffeine, niacinamide
Best for: Dry, normal, oily
Size: 1.01 oz.
SickScience rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “This serum sounds too good to be true, but the before and after images I saw on the website finally convinced me to try it. The gel-serum texture sinks into the skin and hydrates without leaving behind any greasy residue, and within a couple of weeks, I saw definition on my jawline that I swear wasn’t there before. I’ve also had wrinkles on my neck since childhood, so I’m hoping that the product will help stop them from getting any deeper. I’ve already stocked up on two or three backup bottles so that I always have them on hand.” —Carol Lee, ELLE.com associate beauty e-commerce writer
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Pros
- Hydrating
Cons
- Some may prefer an unscented option
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. The cream is thick and absorbs well into the skin. I applied it in an upward motion and noticed a difference in my superficial wrinkles 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, beauty expert
Pros
- Anti-aging
Cons
- May not be suited for sensitive skin
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.”
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Pros
- Easy to pump out
Cons
- Some may dislike scent
iS Clinical’s formulas are notable for their pharmaceutical-grade ingredients, and this product is no different. AHAs gently exfoliate and even out the skin, hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates, and antioxidants work to neutralize aging free radicals.
Key ingredients: AHAs, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid
Best for: All skin types
Size: 1.7 oz.
Dermstore rating: 4.5/5 stars
A Dermstore reviewer says: “I received a 5 ml sample, and from the first time I used this, I noticed a slight tightening on my neck. I have used this every day and continue to see results.. This product works, and I will be purchasing the full size.”
Pros
- Pleasant scent
- Luxurious packaging
Cons
- Smaller size
La Mer’s moisturizers are the stuff of legends, and it’s time to give your neck the same treatment. The formula features the renowned Miracle Broth, which reduces irritation, as well as lime tea concentrate to combat the effects of environmental stressors. Plus, fermented marine-based ingredients firm and lift the skin by boosting its natural collagen. You can apply it to your neck with your fingers, but the cream also comes with an elegant applicator brush if you’d prefer not to use your hands.
Key ingredients: Concentrated Miracle Broth, lime tea concentrate
Best for: All skin types
Size: 1.7 oz.
Nordstrom rating: 4.5/5 stars
A Nordstrom reviewer says: “Silky smooth texture that soaks right in and leaves skin feeling ultra-soft and velvety. Lines in my neck have greatly decreased. One of my favorite indulgences. Clean, intoxicating aroma.”
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9
Best with Sun Protection
Estée Lauder Resilience Multi-Effect Tri-Peptide Face and Neck Moisturizer SPF 15
Pros
- Includes SPF 15
Cons
- Some may dislike jar packaging
Peptides are all the rage these days for their collagen-supporting properties, and this peptide-infused neck cream has been shown to increase collagen by a whopping 124 percent in just a few days. If you’re not already applying SPF to your neck, the moisturizer takes care of that too, helping prevent the dark spots and wrinkles that come with excess sun exposure.
Key ingredients: Peptides, antioxidants, sodium hyaluronate
Best for: All skin types
Size: 1.7 oz.
Nordstrom rating: 4.5/5 stars
A Nordstrom 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.”
Pros
- Specially formulated for the neck area
Cons
- Can take time to see results
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: 4.2/5 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
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Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Comes in a tube with a pump
Cons
- Can take weeks to see results
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: 4.5/5 stars
Our expert says: “It is very hydrating and makes your skin feel so smooth. I also love the consistency.” —Dr. Lolis
Pros
- Smooths and brightens neck with retinol
Cons
- May not be suitable for dry skin
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 retinol underneath a neck cream. This retinol is formulated with aloe vera to avoid unnecessary irritation as you introduce it into your routine. Lactic acid also helps gently exfoliate the 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.”
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Pros
- Hydrating
Cons
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
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.”
Pros
- Derm-approved
Cons
- Packaging makes it difficult to get last drops of product out
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
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Pros
- Helps plump the skin
Cons
- Takes time and consistency to see results
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: 3.7/5 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.”
Pros
- Hydrating
Cons
- May not be suited for sensitive skin
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: 4.4/5 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.”
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Pros
- Anti-aging
Cons
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
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.”
Pros
- Hydrating
Cons
- Some may dislike scent
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 texture is perfect for sensitive areas, like the neck and decolletage, with ingredients like mushroom extract, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid boosting moisture levels and fighting 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!”
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Pros
- Very hydrating
Cons
- Scent may be unpleasant to some
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. Mario Badescu cream is very rich in texture and utilizes antioxidant vitamins A, D, and E, plus nourishing hyaluronic acid and cocoa butter. 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.”
Pros
- Anti-aging
Cons
- Need to use consistently to see results
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: “I have now been using this cream and the face wash for about two months, and wow! I am s incredibly happy with how much it has tightened up my ‘double chin’ area and neck! It has also made my skin look years younger, and my pores are so small now! I will never go back to using other products!”
Katie Berohn
Beauty Editor
Katie Berohn is ELLE’s beauty editor. Previously, she held the same title at Who What Wear, where she was promoted from associate beauty editor. She’s written for publications like The Cut, Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, and Mashable. Her interests include fragrance, vintage shopping, hot yoga, food, travel, music, books, and attempting to make every NYT Cooking recipe. She’s on the endless hunt to find the perfect shade of red lipstick.
Carol Lee
Carol Lee is the Associate Beauty E-Commerce Writer at ELLE.com, where she covers all things beauty and personal care. Before joining the team, she was an editor at Food Network Magazine and HGTV Magazine and ran the beauty section at The Pioneer Woman. Carol received her bachelor’s degree in Journalism from New York University and was one of the first customers to visit Glossier’s flagship store in New York’s Soho neighborhood. Over the years, she’s tested countless makeup, hair, and skin care products, and written hundreds of articles covering the beauty space, from pieces about the trendiest launches to roundups of the best products on the market. As a Korean-American, she grew up in a sea of Korean makeup and skin care products and is a bona fide expert on the ever-expanding world of K-beauty, helping lead our coverage. Additionally, she’s also always on the hunt for the perfect lipstick and watches the same few comfort sitcoms (Frasier, Cheers, Seinfeld, New Girl, etc.) over and over again.