Turkey Neck: Causes, Prevention & Treatment

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Turkey neck is a condition that affects many people as they age. The skin on the neck becomes loose and wrinkled, making it look like a turkey’s wattle.

In this article, I’ll explain what turkey neck is, what causes it, and how to treat it before it becomes a bigger problem. I’ll also give you some tips on how to take care of your skin to prevent turkey neck from occurring in the first place.

What is turkey neck?

Turkey neck is a common term used to describe the loose, saggy skin that hangs from the neck and jawline.

It’s called turkey neck because it resembles the skin on a turkey’s neck (turkey’s wattle).

Turkey neck is common in older adults but can also occur in younger people who have lost a lot of weight. Several treatment options for this condition include creams, diet, exercises, and surgery.

What causes turkey neck?

Turkey neck can be caused by several factors, but it’s usually because of age.

Most people begin to lose collagen by the time they turn 30 (collagen is the protein that makes the skin firm and plump). This causes the skin on the neck to become loose, ultimately resulting in a turkey neck.

Other causes of this condition include:

  • Weak neck muscles
  • Sun damage
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Smoking

How do you prevent turkey neck?

Avoid sudden weight loss

When it comes to losing weight, it’s important to do it slowly and steadily. That’s because sudden weight loss can lead to loose, saggy skin—especially around the neck.

To prevent “turkey neck,” aim to lose no more than 1-2 pounds per week. Start by cutting back on calories and reducing portion sizes. Then, get moving with some beginner exercises that’ll help you healthily reach your weight goal.

Avoid smoking

Avoid smoking as it damages the skin and accelerates the aging process, resulting in saggy skin. You should also avoid exposure to secondhand smoke, as this can also contribute to saggy skin.

Protect your skin from the sun

It’s essential to protect yourself from the sun’s rays so you don’t develop a turkey neck.

To do this, always be sure to wear a sunscreen lotion with a high SPF factor (SPF 30 or above). And if you’re spending long hours outside, try to wear a hat and clothes that cover most of your body.

Don’t stretch too much

Stretching too often can strain the muscles in your neck, causing them to become weak and vulnerable to turkey neck.

Eat more proteins

Protein is key when it comes to firming up your skin and preventing this condition.

Protein provides the building blocks for collagen and elastin, two important components of healthy skin. Collagen helps keep skin firm and plump, while elastin gives it the ability to snap back into place after being stretched or pulled.

Some great sources of protein include lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, nuts, seeds, and soy products. So make sure to include these in your diet if you want to keep your neck firm.

How do you get rid of turkey neck?

There are several ways to get rid of turkey neck and restore the skin on your neck to its former condition. Here are a few:

Exercises

Certain exercises (such as forehead pull, neck lift, and neck turn) can help strengthen your neck muscles, reducing the size of your neck. However, be sure not to overdo it because too much exercise can lead to neck strain or even injury.

Topical products

Topical products such as moisturizers and serums contain several ingredients that can help get rid of this condition. Some of these ingredients include:

Retinoids

Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that you can find in several over-the-counter products, as well as in prescription strength formulations. They work by increasing collagen production and cell turnover, which helps to improve the appearance of wrinkles and turkey neck.

Peptides

Peptides are short-chain amino acids that you can find in several topical products. They can make your neck more natural-looking by stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a common ingredient that you can find in both OTC and prescription products. It works by repairing damaged cells and boosting collagen production, which can help improve the appearance of your neck.

Surgeries

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to this problem, there are a few surgical options that can help to improve the appearance of a turkey neck.

One option is called a neck lift, which involves making incisions around the neck and removing excess skin and fat. This procedure can also involve tightening the muscles in the neck to create a more youthful appearance.

Another option is neck liposuction, which involves suctioning excess fat from the neck area. This can be done alone or in combination with a neck lift.

If you’re considering surgery to improve the appearance of this condition, it’s important to consult with your doctor first.

What to expect during a doctor’s visit

During the visit, your doctor may ask you questions about your lifestyle and take your medical history. They may also examine your neck carefully; they may ask you to turn your head toward one side or tilt your head up or down.

After examining your neck, your doctor will then offer advice about how to get rid of your turkey neck naturally or through surgery. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist if necessary; you may need to see a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon.

Frequently Asked Questions

turkey neck

What age does turkey neck start?

Age 30 – 40.

Turkey neck can develop in people as early as their 30s or 40s. As we age, our skin loses elasticity, and gravity takes over, causing the skin on our necks to wrinkle and sag.

Why is your neck aging so fast?

Several factors can contribute to your neck aging so fast, including sun damage, smoking, and dehydration.

If you have an aging neck, you can help improve its appearance with treatments such as laser therapy and Botox.

How long does Botox last for turkey neck?

In general, Botox results for turkey neck last for 3-5 months.

However, the length of time can vary from person to person. Factors like age, lifestyle, and skin type can all affect how long Botox lasts.

Does chewing gum help reduce turkey neck?

No, it doesn’t.

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that chewing gum can help reduce the appearance of turkey neck. If you’re looking for a way to reduce the appearance of turkey neck, you’re better off trying the effective options I mentioned above.

Takeaway

Turkey neck is a common problem that many people face as they age. It can also be caused by other factors, including weak neck muscles, sun damage, and smoking.

To prevent this condition, you should avoid sudden weight loss and smoking. You should also protect your skin from the sun, eat more proteins, and avoid stretching your neck too much.

If you already have this condition, you can get rid of it with topical products and exercises. You can also consult your doctor and discuss surgeries such as neck lift and neck liposuction.

Thanks for reading.

Visit Serum101 for more information on how to care for your skin.