As if fine lines, gray hair and hormone-fueled mood swings weren’t enough for women to have to deal with. Over time, some of us develop what’s known as turkey neck—when the skin under your chin starts to sag, droop, wrinkle and look like, well, a turkey’s wattle. Ugh.
Caused by a number of things – aging, loss of muscle tone, weight loss, genes (thanks, Mom) – turkey neck may become even more noticeable over time, because the delicate skin from your chin to your chest is especially vulnerable to sun damage. Double ugh!
But before you make an appointment with a plastic surgeon for liposuction, fillers or expensive surgeries, there are some things that can be done to naturally firm up and keep your neck skin smooth:
Simple daily exercises
- In a sitting or standing position, look up to the ceiling with your mouth closed. Create a chewing motion with your mouth for 30 seconds, rest for 10 seconds, then repeat two more times.
- Again in a sitting or standing position, roll lips over your teeth then open your mouth as wide as possible, tilting your head back. Hold for 30 seconds, rest for 10 seconds, then repeat two more times.
- Tilting your head back, press your tongue to the roof of your mouth. Hold for a count of 10, then relax.
- Sitting up straight, open your mouth wide. Tilting your head back, begin to close your mouth, pushing your lower teeth out. Hold for a count, then lower head back to starting position with your mouth closed. Repeat five times.
- Using a chair, sit with your back straight. Slowly lean your head back until you’re looking up at the ceiling. Keep your lips closed and loose. Pucker your lips like you’re kissing the ceiling. Hold this position for a couple of seconds. Repeat 10 times
Stay hydrated
Loss of moisture is a well-known wrinkle trigger, so make a point to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day. Drink water or coconut water, or try a low-caffeine herbal tea that supports skin health.
Watch your body fat percentage
Spot reduction – targeting a specific area of your body for fat loss – generally isn’t effective. Instead, aim to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet to keep your overall body-fat percentage low while nourishing your body with the vitamins and antioxidants it (and your skin!) need to keep turkey neck in check. Not sure about your levels? Use a body fat caliper tool to find out.
Apply sunscreen religiously
Applying sunscreen is a must—every day, all year long, even on cloudy, winter days. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against both UVA and UVB rays, and make sure it has an SPF of 15 or higher. Andalou Naturals Ultra Sheer Daily Defense is a great natural option – with no sulfates, parabens or preservatives – and offers a SPF of 18. Go heavy on your neck!