The Rundown
- To create this list, Shape editors researched dozens of firming neck creams and consulted with two dermatologists for their product recommendations.
- Our overall winner was the StriVectin Tighten & Lift Advanced Neck Cream, a do-it-all formula packed with peptides, a derm-recommended active ingredient that boosts collagen and elastin, working to smooth and revitalize the skin.
- We also love our budget-friendly pick: NIVEA Q10 Skin Firming and Anti-Wrinkle Neck and Chest Cream, which is ultra-hydrating and includes antioxidant coenzyme Q10 to boost cell turnover and improve skin texture.
Many of us spend time, effort, and hard-earned cash on skincare that lifts our face, opting for high-end treatments like red light therapy devices or microcurrent gadgets, but it’s important not to overlook what’s going on below the chin. As we age and the production of collagen and elastin decreases, the thin, delicate skin of the neck starts to become looser, giving it a wrinkled, crepey appearance. While the rate at which this occurs is certainly influenced by genetics, lifestyle plays a role, too. “Factors such as sun exposure, smoking, and poor diet can accelerate this process,” says dermatologist Dr. Hannah Kopelman, DO. “Additionally, repeated movements and postures, such as looking down at phones or computers (AKA “tech neck”) can contribute to the development of wrinkles and sagging.”
The good news is that the best firming neck cream can positively impact the skin’s appearance. “It can help by providing essential moisture and nutrients that the skin needs to stay firm and elastic,” explains Dr. Kopelman, naming peptides and retinol as two key ingredients to look for. Plus, “regular use of a quality neck cream can also help protect the skin from environmental damage and provide a barrier against free radicals,” thereby slowing the signs of aging.
To find the best of the best, we researched and tried dozens of options, judging them on active ingredients, price, and product size. Then, with guidance from Dr. Kopleman and New York-based dermatologist Dr. Aya Ahram, DO, FAAD, we created this definitive list of the best firming neck creams with the power to improve the look and feel of your skin.
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Amazon
Why We Like It: Packed with peptides, this does-it-all formula boosts collagen production, smoothing and revitalizing the skin.
It’s Worth Noting: Those with sensitive skin may find the cream irritating and itchy.
Key Ingredients: Peptides, Spilanthol, Bearberry Leaf Extract | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free?: Yes
Our search for the best overall firming neck cream ended when Dr. Kopelman introduced us to StriVectin’s award-winning Tighten & Lift Advanced Neck Cream. This silky formula boasts a patented peptide, a type of anti-aging ingredient that’s “excellent for stimulating collagen production and improving skin firmness and elasticity,” says Dr. Kopelman. An NIH study also confirmed that peptide complex is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles when added to skincare routines.
Add to the mix hydrating hyaluronic acid, radiance-boosting bearberry leaf extract, and strengthening spilanthol (a fatty acid that forms a protective film over the skin), and we’re convinced this tightening neck cream really can do it all.
Use it as the final step in your morning skincare routine, smoothing the formula from your jawline to your décolletage for an instant confidence boost and noticeable long-term results. One word of warning: although the formula eschews all the usual nasties, including parabens and phthalates, some users with sensitive skin say their skin became itchy and rashy after using it. If you have reactive skin, we recommend checking the ingredients list and consulting a dermatologist before trying new products.
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Amazon
Why We Like It: This ultra-hydrating formula reduces the appearance of wrinkles for 24 hours while antioxidant coenzyme Q10 boosts cell turnover and improves skin texture long-term.
It’s Worth Noting: This cream has a strong scent, which sensitive noses might not appreciate.
Key Ingredients: Coenzyme Q10, Creatine and Provitamin B5 | Size: 6.7 oz | Cruelty-Free?: No
With its antioxidant-rich, hydrating formula, NIVEA’s anti-wrinkle cream delivers impressive results at a budget-friendly price point. The formula’s biggest asset is a hefty dose of moisture courtesy of provitamin B5, glycerin, and macadamia nut oil, which plumps and smoothes the skin for up to 24 hours. Meanwhile, creatine (an amino acid) increases collagen production, and coenzyme Q10 (a potent antioxidant) speeds up cell turnover and protects against environmental damage. One downside, depending on your preferences, is the cream’s strong scent.
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Skinstore
Why We Like It: This formula contains slow-release retinol to increase cell turnover and peptides to boost collagen production — a powerhouse anti-aging duo to tighten and smooth the neck
It’s Worth Noting: Skin can take a while to adjust to retinol, so take it slow with this formula.
Key Ingredients: 0.2% Pure Retinol A, peptides, Glaucine complex | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free?: Yes
SkinCeuticals Tripeptide R Neck Repair Cream contains 0.2% pure retinol, an ingredient both of our experts referenced as one of the most effective for revitalizing the skin. Per NIH, Retinol increases cell turnover and boosts collagen, tackling wrinkles, horizontal lines, and crepiness in one fell swoop. Additionally, the formula includes peptides to plump and firm the skin and glaucine complex (made from yellow horn poppy) to reduce water retention and increase circulation.
Retinol newbies, it’s important to expect an adjustment period. Your skin may be dry and flakey initially but the payoff will be worth it. SkinCeuticals recommends using one to two pumps of the formula twice a week to start with, before working your way up to every other night. And don’t forget to slather on high-SPF sunscreen because retinol lotions and serums make skin extra sensitive to UV damage.
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Amazon
Why We Like It: A blend of Japanese superfoods boosts moisture and cell turnover while plumping the skin, giving the neck a smoother appearance.
It’s Worth Noting: This cream leaves a slightly sticky residue.
Key Ingredients: Green tea, red algae, rice extract, peony extract, vitamin C | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free?: Yes
Whether you’re dealing with horizontal tech-neck lines or just general crepiness, this wrinkle-smoothing neck cream from TATCHA can help. Like all formulations from the Japanese brand, the cream puts endemic plants front and center, including Uji green tea for detoxification, Okinawa red algae for moisture retention and Akita rice for a hit of skin-nourishing proteins. It also contains peony extract and vitamin C to aid cell turnover and leave your skin smoother and more radiant than before.
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Amazon
Why We Like It: This antioxidant-rich formula is suitable for your neck, chest, and face, making it a great time and money saver.
It’s Worth Noting: Some testers claim the cream causes breakouts.
Key Ingredients: Hexinol, niacinamide, lipids | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free?: Yes
Although extravagant multi-step beauty routines like double cleansing are trending, we can see the appeal of a more streamlined skincare regimen. If that’s your goal, then RoC’s multipurpose Multi Correxion 5-in-1 cream is our top recommendation. This daytime formula is designed to be used on the face, neck, and chest, where RoC’s proprietary antioxidant complex works to eliminate fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and dark spots. It also doubles as sunscreen, protecting your skin against new sun damage.
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Amazon
Why We Like It: Dr. Kopelman recommended this formula, which contains dihydromyricetin, a flavonoid (aka plant pigment) known to improve skin firmness.
It’s Worth Noting: It may take some time to work, so patience is key.
Key Ingredients: Peptides, dihydromyricetin, sandalwood, vitamins C and E | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free?: No
To improve the skin’s texture below your chin, Dr. Kopelman recommends Revision’s Skincare Nectifirm. “It includes peptides, antioxidants, and plant extracts to smooth and firm the neck skin,” she says. “It’s known for reducing the appearance of rough, crepey skin and fine lines.”
The award-winning formula boasts a blend of five peptides, dihydromyricetin (a flavonoid found naturally in plants) to improve skin firmness, sandalwood to boost hydration, and vitamins C and E to reduce dark spots and create a more even skin tone.
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Sephora
Why We Like It: This potent formula, which contains peptides and vitamin E, tackles the effects of aging by increasing the skin’s elasticity and smoothness.
It’s Worth Noting: Some reviewers noticed pilling when they used this product.
Key Ingredients: Peptides, polysaccharides, tocopherol | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free?: Yes
If you’ve noticed an uptick in wrinkles, dryness, hyperpigmentation, and a general loss of bounce and radiance in your skin, this replenishing neck cream from Dr. Brandt will be an asset to your beauty routine. Inspired by results from in-office procedures, it aspires to lift and firm the delicate skin of the neck using star ingredients like peptides to stimulate collagen and elastin production, polysaccharides (sugar molecules that have been proved to aid anti-aging products) to hydrate and protect, and tocopherol (vitamin E) to guard against free radical damage.
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Amazon
Why We Like It: This formula hydrates and smoothes parched, wrinkled skin with a cocktail of powerful hydrators, including vitamin E, cocoa butter, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin.
It’s Worth Noting: The heavy consistency takes time to absorb well.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin A (retinol), D, E, cocoa butter, hyaluronic acid, glycerin | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free?: No
Dry skin lacks sebum that gives oilier skin types a more plump appearance, making lines and wrinkles more prominent. To restore optimal hydration levels to your skin, reach for a moisture-rich neck cream like this one from Mario Badescu. It’s packed with vitamin E, cocoa butter, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin to make skin smooth and silky. Plus, it utilizes vitamin D to protect the skin against UV damage and vitamin A (retinol) to increase cell turnover, reducing wrinkles and dark spots. Use it every evening after cleansing and toning, and watch your neck become soft, nourished, and less lined.
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Amazon
Why We Like It: This formula utilizes a blend of peptides to boost collagen and elastin, with radiance-boosting phytonutrients and moisturizing flax seed to create a lifted, more toned look.
It’s Worth Noting: Reviewers say the pump applicator is easily damaged, so take care not to drop the container.
Key Ingredients: Peptides, flax seed extract, phytoene, and phytofluene | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free?: Yes
While there’s no magic quick fix for crepey skin, Dr. Ahram recommends this “neck complex” from Alastin, which helps to create a lifted effect. The formula’s key ingredients are phytoene and phytofluene (two phytonutrients found in lots of fruit and veggie varieties), which bring a hefty dose of antioxidants to help calm inflammation and improve radiance while the included flax seed extract reduces skin sensitivity and locks in moisture. It also contains the brand’s own cocktail of peptides to boost collagen and elastin production, creating a noticeable improvement in skin texture and tone.
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Amazon
Why We Like It: Dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic — this gentle but effective serum won’t clog oily or breakout-prone skin.
It’s Worth Noting: It may take some time to work, so patience is key.
Key Ingredients: Peptides, niacinamide, rose water, glycerin | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free?: Yes
If your skin tends to be oily, you’ll want to look for lighter products that add hydration to your neck and chest without clogging pores and causing unwanted breakouts. This serum ticks all the boxes, boasting a silky, non-comedogenic formula enriched with a clinical concentration of five peptides to support collagen production, niacinamide to clear up acne and replenish the skin’s natural moisture barrier, and rosewater to soothe and hydrate. It’s so good you could use it on your face as well.
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Amazon
Why We Like It: This natural formula contains a retinol alternative derived from the Picão Preto plant, which provides the same benefits without causing irritation.
It’s Worth Noting: For the best results, use this cream consistently. Some reviewers claim they can notice a difference if they skip a day of application.
Key Ingredients: Phytoretinols, protein peptides, hyaluronic acid | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free?: N/A
Want impressive results, but your sensitive skin limits the types of ingredients you can use? This natural vegan cream is formulated with a plant-based retinol alternative to target lines and crepiness. Phytoretinol, from the Picão Preto plant, is said to be just as effective as conventional retinol, only without the common side effect of irritation. The formula is supported by protein peptides to boost collagen and hydrating hero hyaluronic acid to soothe and smooth the neck.
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Nordstrom
Why We Like It: This hand-held microcurrent device strengthens the muscles of the face and neck, providing a lifted appearance if used consistently.
It’s Worth Noting: Although this NuFace device is FDA-cleared, avoid using it down the midline of your neck to protect your thyroid.
Key Ingredients: N/A | Size: 5.5 inches long | Cruelty-Free?: N/A
Ok, this one is technically not a cream, but it’s certainly a useful tool for firming the neck. The NuFace Trinity is a hand-held microcurrent device (like a less intense version of the treatment you might have had in your esthetician’s office) that stimulates the muscles beneath the skin. It’s like a workout for your face and neck, resulting in a more lifted and youthful appearance. Slather your neck with conductor gel, then glide the device from your collarbone to your jawline, avoiding the midline so you don’t accidentally zap your thyroid. Repeat this for a couple of minutes on each side several times a week, and you should start to see noticeable results in around a month.
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Amazon
Why We Like It: This nourishing formula strengthens the skin barrier and smoothes skin texture, making the neck appear tighter.
It’s Worth Noting: Although the brand says this product is suitable for all skin types, reviewers say it has a greasy consistency that might not be ideal for oily skin.
Key Ingredients: Peptides, ceramides, vitamin E, shea butter | Size: 1.8 oz | Cruelty-Free?: Yes
If the skin on your neck doesn’t have the same elasticity it once had, Dr. Ahram recommends this formula from DRMTLGY. Moisturizing vitamin E and shea butter immediately nourish the skin and smooth wrinkles, while a potent blend of peptides and ceramides strengthens the skin barrier and fades areas of hyperpigmentation. The overall result is a hydrated, tightened, and more defined contour of the neck and décolletage. Because it’s an ultra-moisturizing formula, it can feel a bit oily, which might not be ideal for anyone prone to body acne.
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Dermstore
Why We Like It: This brightening, collagen-boosting formula from a dermatologist-founded beauty brand will firm up the delicate décolletage and banish brown spots.
It’s Worth Noting: Expect to see results in 8-12 weeks.
Key Ingredients: NeoGlucosamine, NeoCitriate, shea butter, glycerin, peptides | Size: 2.8 oz | Cruelty-Free?: Yes
The delicate skin of the décolletage area is prone to wrinkles, particularly among sun worshipers and side sleepers, so it’s important to apply your neck cream there, too. This formula is recommended by Dr. Kopelman, who says its blend of brightening neoglucosamine and collagen-forming NeoCitriate, the brand’s patented ingredient, “helps to build the skin’s support matrix, making it firmer and more resilient.” Smooth it from your neck to the base of your décolletage twice a day, and you should see an improvement in radiance, tone, and texture within a couple of months. If you’ve got brown spots or hyperpigmentation, this formula will help fade it.
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Amazon
Why We Like It: This luxurious balm enhances skin barrier function and reduces inflammation, preventing premature aging.
It’s Worth Noting: The formula has a strong scent that some might find off-putting.
Key Ingredients: Giant sea kelp, lime tea concentrate, whey protein, sesame seed oil, caffeine | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free?: No
Is it the rich texture of this La Mer cream or the fact it comes with a little brush for gentle application that makes it feel so fancy? Regardless, if you’re going to splurge on a neck cream, it should be this one. The balm-like formula is enriched with the brand’s signature blend of fermented giant sea kelp, vitamins, and minerals to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation, preventing premature aging. Another of LA Mer’s go-to ingredients, lime tea concentrate, infuses the skin with antioxidants to protect against environmental stressors. The silky consistency feels like a treat on your skin and gives the neck a smoother appearance.
What to Know About Firming Neck Creams
- When to Use a Firming Neck Cream: The simple answer is whenever you feel it’s necessary. Anyone who has recently become conscious of the early signs of aging, such as fine lines and slight sagging, as well as those with more pronounced wrinkles and skin laxity might consider adding a firming neck cream to their routine. “Preventative use can also be beneficial for younger individuals who want to maintain the firmness and smoothness of their neck skin,” adds Dr. Kopelman.
- Application: After your usual cleanse and tone routine, apply a small amount of product to the neck area in upward strokes. “Be gentle to avoid pulling or stretching the skin,” says Dr. Kopelman. “Gently massage the cream into the skin to ensure even distribution and absorption, focusing on areas with more pronounced wrinkles or sagging.” Use the neck cream consistently, both morning and night, for the best results (or follow directions on the label).
- Active Ingredients: Both Dr. Kopelman and Dr. Ahram suggest formulas with retinol to promote cell turnover, peptides to stimulate collagen and elastin production, and vitamin C to fade dark spots and protect against environmental damage. Additionally, Dr. Kopelman likes hydrating hyaluronic acid and skin barrier-fortifying niacinamide, while Dr. Ahram names collagen-enhancing palmitoyl tripeptide-5 (amino acids) as an impactful ingredient to seek out.
- Formulas with Retinol: Because the skin on your neck is more delicate than the face, Dr. Ahram advises starting with retinol-based formulas twice a week. Once your tolerance increases, you can use them more frequently.
Why Trust Shape
Esme Benjamin is a freelance writer based in NYC whose work focuses on wellness, beauty, and travel. When she’s not penning stories for publications including Shape, Self, Elle, Byrdie, R29, Condé Nast Traveler, and Glamour, you’ll find Esme practicing yoga, dabbling in NYC’s spa and experiential wellness scene, or planning her next international trip. Esme has researched and tested hundreds of beauty products and drew on her own skincare experience to complete this list of the best firming neck creams.
Additionally, we consulted with two experts for this story:
- Dermatologist Dr. Hannah Kopelman, DO who hosts the podcast DermClub
- New York-based dermatologist Dr. Aya Ahram, DO, FAAD