Shar Pei: How to Tighten My Neck Skin?

Q:

I have some wrinkles and fine lines around my neck and chest area. I have used several moisturizers and creams but nothing had happened. The Chihuahua next door rejected my asking for a date because I have a “pleated” neck. She said it looks like I am wearing a “lasagna scarf” on my neck… Please help me! Ruff!

-Shar Pei  

A:

Dear Mr. Shar Pei,

I am glad you are aware of the problem on your neck skin. But… are you sure it’s the only area of wrinkles you need to take care of?? 

Well, back to your question,  as we age our skin loses the elasticity that it had in our younger years, and this causes it to become loose and appear saggy. The best alternative method to tighten and lift neck skin is to do exercises and to try different non-surgical cosmetic treatments which are described below.

Exercise. These exercises are a good mix of stretching and working out your neck and lower facial muscles. They should be repeated once or twice a day, and should become a part of your everyday routine. By doing them regularly for the rest of your life, your neck will be stronger and more flexible.

1. Place one hand on your forehead. Push your head against it without letting it go forwards. You should feel your neck muscles working. Hold this position for about 10 seconds. Then clasp your hands behind your head, and push backwards to create pressure, and again hold for about ten seconds.

2. Sit down with your back straight. Lift your head back so that your chin is pointing toward the ceiling with your lips closed. Next make a chewing motion with your mouth. You'll feel your neck and facial muscles being worked. Repeat about 20 times. 

Avoid sudden weight gain or loss. Weight gain will cause your skin to stretch, as well as this, the neck is one of the most likely places that you'll gain weight, causing a double chin, and will leave you with looser skin if you lose the weight. Sudden weight loss doesn't give your skin time to adjust and will leave it looking and feeling loose. You should lose weight gradually to avoid this. 

Try creams. People tend to neglect the neck skincare while they spend tons of money and time on the face skin. Many different types of skin tightening creams are available. Skin firming creams are often very rich in moisture in order to deeply hydrate the skin, thus reducing wrinkles and preventing further damage. 

Consider surgery. Although many would avoid it, surgery is an option. However, as with all cosmetic surgery, make sure that you are fully aware of the risks involved, get the proper aftercare that you require, that you're going through a trusted surgeon and company, and that you understand your procedure.

I hope you find these suggestions useful. By the way, instead of a Chihuahua, have you considered to date a Miss Shar Pei? I am pretty sure you two could enjoy the time together!

Sincerely,

Dr. Coffeerainy