When it comes to the gold-standard anti-aging ingredient of retinol, applying to the face usually steals the spotlight. But here’s the glow-up secret your body’s been waiting for: Retinol can work wonders below the chin, too.
"Retinol is a great way to be introduced to the concept of a retinoid," says Omaha, NE dermatologist Joel Schlessinger, MD. "Gentler than the prescription varieties, it does offer several different options for application and is a great boost for any product that isn't close to a sensitive area. Having said that, we love the usage of these products on the neck and décolletage area, and they can even be used on areas like the legs and arms to improve sun-damaged skin."
Another expert tip: Even though retinols are "over-the-counter," that doesn't mean they don't pack a punch, says Omaha, NE dermatologist Daniel Schlessinger, MD. "It is best to acclimate the skin carefully by applying them for about an hour the first time you use them. If your skin tolerates them, then you can work up to a few hours the next night—they are recommended to be used at night due to the potential for sunburn if used in the daytime. After that, your skin will gradually exfoliate and reveal a more glowing appearance."
Featured Experts
- Daniel Schlessinger, MD and Joel Schlessinger, MD are board-certified dermatologists in Omaha, NE
- Elizabeth Houshmand, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in Dallas
- Dr. Karan Lal is a board-certified dermatologist in Phoenix
The Best Retinol Products for the Neck
1 / 10
Dallas dermatologist Elizabeth Houshmand, MD calls Obagi’s Neck and Décolleté Concentrate "an investment" for delicate neck tissue. "It has a blend of a retinoid called retinyl palmitate, along with two skin brighteners (niacinamide and alpha arbutin) to help with fine lines and discoloration. It also has glycerin to soothe. It is a game-changer!" No matter what you use, Dr. Houshmand says she often recommends products with a slightly lower concentration of retinol to minimize potential irritation, especially since the skin on the neck can be more sensitive. "And remember to apply upward strokes and always follow with sunscreen during the day!"
BUY ON OBAGI - $260
BUY ON AMAZON - $260
obagi elasitderm neck and deck
2 / 10
Drs. Schlessinger both love this luxurious option, which balances and brightens.
BUY NOW - $80
3 / 10
Dr. Houshmand considers this PCA pick as a "great multitasker" for treating sun damage, wrinkles and laxity. "It is a lightweight cream formulation with retinol to boost cell turnover," she says, adding that it is also great for discoloration because it has ingredients like licorice root to even out tone. "Peptides and calcium hydroxymethionine are key players for smoothing wrinkles and improving firmness."
BUY ON DERMSTORE - $95
BUY ON AMAZON - $95
PCA SKIN Perfecting Neck & Décolleté
4 / 10
"This is a luxurious cream with a high dose of microalgae, rich in antioxidant vitamins A, C and E," explains Dr. Houshmand. "This skin-firming cream also contains peptides and moisturizing mushroom extract great for tech neck."
BUY ON DERMSTORE - $135
BUY ON AMAZON - $135
skinmedica neck cream
5 / 10
Team Schlessinger likes this clinically tested derm favorite that features time-released retinol, and recommends pairing it with Triple Lipid Restore and purchasing it as a duo.
BUY ON LOVELYSKIN - $136
BUY ON DERMSTORE - $136
skinceuticals neck serum
6 / 10
Phoenix, AZ dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal calls this drugstore pick a "roll-on retinol" and praises it for its affordability.
BUY NOW - $30
roc derm correxion advanced retinol firming serum stick
7 / 10
Another Obagi pick in the mix, Drs. Schlessinger gives this refining night cream their seal of approval. "I am liking this product very much," shares one happy reviewer on LovelySkin.com. "I have very sensitive skin, and retinol products alone cause my skin to dry out. This product has enough moisture that it does not cause the drying that retinol alone causes. I recommend this product."
BUY ON LOVELYSKIN - $135
BUY ON AMAZON - $135
obagi retinol pha night cream
8 / 10
Considered a "next-generation body moisturizer" that also promises to reduce the appearance of cellulite, this super hydrating lotion is powered by all-trans-retinol and antioxidant-rich edelweiss flower. Bio-mimicking ceramides work to restore elasticity, while calming green tea polyphenols soothe and protect. A boost of hyaluronic acid locks in hydration, leaving skin soft and plump.
BUY ON LOVELYSKIN - $94
BUY ON AMAZON - $94
Replenix Retinol Smooth + Tighten Body Lotion ($94)
9 / 10
Available at Sephora, Dr. Lal likes this multifunctional product for its multiple actives. "It is great for neck, face and chest," he says.
BUY ON NÉCESSAIRE - $58
BUY ON SEPHORA - $58
Award Photo: The Body Retinol
10 / 10
Clocking in with a jumbo size and an easy-to-use pump bottle, this retinol contains allantoin—a mix Dr. Lal likes because it "is so gentle for all skin types."
BUY ON ULTA - $26
BUY ON AMAZON - $28
naturium body retinol
