Wondering if neck creams and neck serums are really necessary? You're not alone.

But here's the thing...

"If you're noticing sun damage, uneven skin tone and texture, and even signs of ageing on your neck and décolletage, your body scrub is not going to cut it," says Dermal Therapist Yadira Cauchi.

"You need to be using active ingredients. Especially because the neck and décolletage are often the first places to show visible signs of ageing."

This is because the neck is often forgotten and exposed to the elements, leading to cumulative sun damage that can appear as hyperpigmentation, wrinkles and skin sagging.

Plus, this area tends to have fewer oil glands, be thinner and less able to retain moisture.

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All of this leads to a lack of oil and moisture in the skin. Dry and dehydrated skin can make signs of ageing appear more prominent, too.

Let's answer some more of your neck cream and serum questions below.

Do I Need a Specific Product for My Neck?

Almost any facial skincare product can be applied to body skin.

For example, Alpha-H's Liquid Gold Exfoliating Treatment can be swiped over dry areas like the knees, ankles and elbows, or swiped over the décolletage.

That said, the skin on the neck and décolletage are drier and more sensitive than the skin on your face.

If you have neck skin concerns and are already investing time into a face skincare routine, adding a dedicated product into your routine will deliver best results.

Alpha-H Retinol Reboot Exfoliating Body Treatment is an overnight treatment specifically formulated for the neck, décolletage and beyond.

With 8% Glycolic Acid and 1% Encapsulated Retinol, this creamy lotion is proven to visibly firm body skin in just 2 weeks.

Unlike other neck serums or neck creams, this product is multi use and can be used for ingrown hairs, redness, Keratosis Pilaris and rough texture.

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When Should I Start Using a Neck Cream?

Prevention is always better than treatment, but although many of us are guilty of neglecting this area until we start seeing visible changes, it’s never too late to start.

When you'll start noticing changes to the skin on your neck may vary depending on genetics, the amount of unprotected sun exposure, and your age.

Many people do not note visible changes until around the age of 40, when loss of elasticity and pronounced wrinkles become more apparent.

However others may see signs of dehydration and uneven skin tone as early as the late 20s, especially if you've spent time in the sun without sunscreen.

Other Skincare Tips for Your Neck

The first step is to ensure that you apply sunscreen daily.

We recommend Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF 50+ for the face, neck, décolletage every morning as non-negotiable insurance against the damaging effects of UV, which include lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and dilated capillaries particularly across the décolletage 

Avoid having your shower too hot and extend your morning and evening cleansing ritual to the neck and décolletage area.

Finally, avoid foaming or stripping cleansers or soap in this region.

Instead choose a creamy pH balanced cleanser such as Balancing Cleanser or a hydrating balm to oil cleanser such as Melting Moment Cleansing Balm.