First published 2020-10-29 / Last reviewed 2026-05-28
This is a guide to filler compiled by Dr. Choi Byeong-geun of SHINE U Clinic Konkuk (3 minutes walk from Konkuk Univ. Station Exit 1).
When you start to notice wrinkles on your neck in the mirror, you realize that there are areas that cannot be addressed by facial care alone. The skin on the neck is thinner than that on the face and has fewer sebaceous glands, making it prone to dryness. Once wrinkles form, they tend to become progressively more prominent. Recently, with an increase in time spent looking down at smartphones, neck wrinkles are being reported even in relatively younger age groups.
Why neck skin is prone to wrinkles
Compared to the face, the neck has thinner skin and fewer sebaceous glands. As subcutaneous fat decreases over time, wrinkles that have formed tend to deepen.
- It is an area where moisturizing care is often neglected compared to the face.
- Accumulated dryness tends to increase fine wrinkles.
- It is greatly affected by posture and lifestyle habits.
What is the difference between horizontal and vertical wrinkles?
The neck wrinkles that commonly come to mind are horizontal wrinkles. Horizontal wrinkles are related to aging but are more significantly influenced by lifestyle habits, so they can appear even in relatively young individuals. Vertical wrinkles, on the other hand, are directly related to aging.
As we age, the platysma muscle in the neck weakens and becomes more susceptible to gravity, which can make vertical wrinkles more prominent.
| Category | Main Direction | Related Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Horizontal Neck Wrinkles | Horizontal | Lifestyle habits, posture |
| Vertical Neck Wrinkles | Vertical | Aging, platysma muscle weakening |
Considerations when approaching with procedures
If wrinkles are not excessively deep and the loss of elasticity is not severe, improvement may be expected with relatively simple methods such as filler or Botox. Generally, it is known that vertical wrinkles are approached with Botox, and horizontal wrinkles with filler.
- Both methods are typically performed without incision.
- Filler can help improve skin texture by adding moisture to the wrinkled area.
- It is reported that using a blunt-tipped cannula can help reduce bruising or swelling.
However, filler requires delicate control depending on the area and depth, and the appropriate method varies depending on the individual's skin condition. Therefore, it is important to confirm the suitable approach through consultation with Dr. Choi Byeong-geun. If you need a neck wrinkle consultation, please inquire via chat.
Good habits to maintain in daily life
- Apply sunscreen
Just like facial skin, neck skin is prone to dryness and aging if continuously exposed to UV rays.
- Sufficient moisturizing and hydration
It is good to apply moisturizer generously to the neck, just like the face, and gently massage it in with upward strokes. Products containing ingredients like Vitamin C or retinol, along with sufficient water intake, can also be helpful.
- Avoid overly high pillows
If your pillow is too high, your head may bend forward, deepening neck wrinkles. It is better to maintain a posture where your head is not bent forward or backward and looks straight ahead when lying down.
- Keep your neck straight normally
Looking down at a smartphone or book for long periods can cause wrinkles due to repeated skin folding.
When using a computer, it is good to align the monitor with your eye level.
- Neck stretching
Regular stretching, moving your neck left and right, and front and back to relax it, can also be helpful.
Even if neck wrinkles are improved with a procedure, they can reappear if lifestyle habits are not also adjusted. Finding the right approach for you, along with daily care, leads to natural results. If you are concerned about neck wrinkles, please feel free to inquire via chat consultation.
Authored by: Dr. Choi Byeong-geun (Chief Director of SHINE U Clinic Konkuk / Member of Korean Laser Dermatology and Hair Society, Korean Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Laser Medicine, Korean Filler Society, etc.) Last Reviewed: 2026-05-28
This article provides general information about procedures and does not replace diagnosis or treatment. The suitability and results of procedures may vary by individual.