How do I get rid of deep creases/lines around my neck and collarbones? (Photos)

Question

I am 18 and have deep creases/lines around my neck and collarbones. They are very noticeable and make me feel self conscious because they are always visible. They are deep and make me look older than I am. I don't why they're like this. Is it because of weight gain (I'm not overweight)? Is there something I've done? Will they get worse with age even though I wear sunscreen everyday? Do I need surgery or is there another way I fade them?

Dana Goldberg, MD · Answer

Skin creases form because your skin is attached to the muscles underneath.Repetitive folding in the areas of connection breaks down collagen in the skin just like bending a credit card over and over creates a weakness in the plastic. Some people are genetically predisposed to creases in specific areas, so it's unlikely that you did anything specific to get these. Unfortunately, they will probably worsen with age.  Minimizing the appearance involves doing everything possible to promote collagen formation and to prevent breakdown of existing collagen in the skin. In addition to that, staying well hydrated and taking good care of your skin will minimize the appearance as well. Preventing breakdown...1. Sunscreen is critical. Radiation is a major cause of skin damage and collagen breakdown. 2. Avoiding quick weight gain or loss. Rapid changes in weight weaken the elastic ability of the skin to move without showing permanent wrinkles. 3. Don't smoke. Between free facials and decreased blood flow in the skin, it's bad for your skin. 4. Micro Botox involves injecting a very small number of units in several areas over the wrinkle every few months. This relaxes wrinkles in some people by preventing some of the movement in those areas. Promoting new collagen...1. Retinols have been used to stimulate collagen in the skin. It makes the skin more sensitive to the sun, so you have to be cautious. Start with the lowest strength (0.025% retin-a or an over the counter retinoid) and build up from 1-2 times weekly to daily use as tolerated. 2. Surface treatments like peels, lasers, and ultherapy can stimulate collagen production. This may be out of your budget for now, but if your wrinkles worsen with age, they are the best way to improve skin texture. Surgery isn't necessary and in fact wouldn't really change much at all. Promoting healthy skin...1. Avoid dehydration. Drink plenty of water, and minimize caffeine and alcohol use. 2. Use topical hyaluronic acids and moisturizers to plump the skin. Regularly exfoliate with either facials or alpha hydroxy acids at home.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

"Injecting soft fillers like Belotero in this area can reduce lines, wrinkles and folds as well as improve skin texture with long-term collagen production. Fillers are being used more frequently to contour and lift rather than solely line fill. Of course, fillers are best used in combination with lasers and microneedling​ with PRP to get the optimal outcome.

I suggest getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist to create an individualized treatment plan that works for you. Best, Dr. Emer"

Chaitali Nangrani, MD · Answer

Deep creases and lines around neck can be addressed by Botox, laser like IPL and PDO threads. The result of using these, is to improve collagen however it is a tough area to treat but with the correct treatment plan, results can be great.

Daniel Chang, MSc, MBBS, MRCS · Answer

Dear basicallyabear,
Thank you for your question. 
Given your age, it is likely that your deep creases around your neck is a genetic predisposition. But to be honest, it really isnt that bad.
Dr Dana has given you an excellent and comprehensive answer and I agree with her. 
To emphasise, I would stick to conservative measures for your case as a first line.
Daytime: Use sunscreen every 2 hours when you are outdoors, mosturisers rich in ceramide
Nighttime: Use retinoids and moisturisers
Avoid: Unhealthy lifestyle that can contribute to free radical damage - excessive drinking, smoking, sun tanning
I hope this helps.

How do I get rid of deep creases/lines around my neck and collarbones? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Deep neck creases

Answer: Deep neck creases

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How do I get rid of deep creases/lines around my neck and collarbones? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Deep neck creases

Answer: Deep neck creases

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Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.