President and Founder of Curcio Dermatology, Dr. Natalie M. Curcio MD, MPH, has been featured in DefenAge’s latest blog post: “It’s All About the Neck.” Throughout the article, author Veronica Webb discusses the importance of treating the skin on your neck early. She highlights Dr. Curcio’s expert advice on preventing sun damage and visible aging in the neck area.
Dr. Curcio shares her years of experience, recommending evidence-based strategies for reducing skin damage on the neck. As she explains:
“Patients who are 40 and above may want to start using a neck cream for anti-aging that contains defensins.” — Dr. Natalie Curcio
Read the full DefenAge article featuring Dr. Curcio: https://defenage.com/skincare-guide/neck/its-all-about-the-neck
Why Neck Skin Ages Faster Than Facial Skin
The neck is one of the earliest areas to show signs of aging due to its delicate structure and near constant sun exposure. Compared to facial skin, the neck:
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Has thinner, more fragile skin
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Contains fewer oil glands
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Experiences daily UV exposure
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Is often skipped during skincare application
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Is affected by “tech neck” posture
Common results of this combination include wrinkles, crepiness, sunspots, laxity, and uneven texture.
Dr. Curcio’s Recommended Ways to Reduce Neck Skin Damage
1. Daily Sunscreen Application
The neck receives as much UV exposure as the face. Protect it with:
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Broad-spectrum SPF 30+
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Mineral sunscreen if sensitive
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Application to the neck and chest
2. Use Defensin-Based Neck Creams
As noted in the DefenAge feature, Dr. Curcio recommends defensin-containing anti-aging neck creams for patients 40+. Defensins help support the skin’s natural rejuvenation process by improving:
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Smoothness
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Firmness
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Texture
3. Introduce Retinol (Gradually)
Retinol increases collagen and reduces fine lines. Because the neck is sensitive:
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Start slowly
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Use under dermatologist guidance
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Pair with moisturizer
4. Strengthen the Skin Barrier
Support neck skin health with moisturizers containing:
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Ceramides
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Peptides
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Hyaluronic acid
A stronger barrier equals less crepiness.
5. Consider Professional Dermatology Treatments
For more advanced neck aging, Curcio Dermatology offers:
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Fractional laser resurfacing
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Radiofrequency microneedling
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Ultrasound-based tightening (e.g., Ultherapy®)
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IPL for redness and pigmentation
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Collagen-stimulating injectables
These options help reduce texture issues, sun damage, and laxity.
Signs of Neck Sun Damage
Early detection can make a significant difference. Watch for:
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Crepey, thinning skin
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Dark spots or blotchy pigmentation
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Horizontal lines or deeper folds
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Redness or broken capillaries
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Sagging or reduced elasticity
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Thickened, leathery texture
If you notice several of these symptoms, a dermatology evaluation can provide a customized treatment plan.
How Tech Neck Accelerates Aging
Looking down at phones and laptops contributes to repetitive creasing. To help minimize “tech neck”:
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Raise screens to eye level
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Take regular posture breaks
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Use voice-to-text when possible
Small daily adjustments can significantly reduce fold formation.
Lifestyle Tips for a Youthful Neck
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Wear UPF-protective clothing or scarves
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Avoid tanning beds entirely
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Use antioxidant serums
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Stay well-hydrated
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Sleep with your head slightly elevated
Combined with professional care, these habits support long-term results.
Why Choose Curcio Dermatology for Neck Rejuvenation
Curcio Dermatology is Nashville’s premier destination for dermatologic surgery, advanced lasers, and cosmetic skin rejuvenation. Patients trust Dr. Curcio for:
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Extensive expertise in aging skin
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Access to leading-edge technologies
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Natural, refined treatment outcomes
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Individualized care plans
Whether you want to prevent early damage or correct visible signs of aging, our team provides proven strategies to help you reduce neck skin damage and improve overall skin health.








