According to board-certified dermatologist Fayne Frey, MD, the answer is simple: no. “From a formulation point of view, ‘neck’ creams are no different than body formulations,” she says. “Ingredients do not know the location of where they are applied nor do they act differently when applied to different locations.”
What about those fancy neck and face rollers you’ve been seeing too? Sorry to say, but they’re bullsh*t, according to Dr. Frey. She said that there is little to no scientific evidence that shows using a roller can help with your skin. But, if you’re an avid user for their soothing feel (like myself), then by all means you do you, boo.
Ok, so we don’t need creams that claim they’re “formulated” for our necks, but Dr. Frey is an avid believer in moisturizing the majority of your body—yes, including your neck—with any regular body lotion or moisturizer. “Skin is a barrier and performs best when it is adequately hydrated,” she says. “Remember, ‘moisturizers’ don’t actually add water to the skin but rather create an environment where the skin can retain its own water. Increasing water content of skin optimizes skin appearance.”
Lesson here: Using your favorite moisturizer, no matter where the designated area of application may be, will do the trick. Out of options? Check out our favorites below.
MALIN+GOETZ Vitamin B5 Body Lotion
Not only does this body lotion have the intoxicating scent of bergamot, but it also contains a hefty dose of vitamin B5 and grapeseed oil for an ultra-soft feel from head (err, neck?) to toe.
Kai Body Lotion
If you’re a fan of floral scents, then grab this moisturizer. It has a light, ethereal smell, while replenishing your skin with a complex of vitamins, including one of our favorites: vitamin C.
Le Labo Body Lotion
What’s better than lighting up a Le Labo candle? Smelling like one all day long. Not only does this lotion smell oh-so delightful, but it’s also filled with a trifecta of moisturizing natural ingredients: avocado, coconut, and sweet almond oil.
Indie Lee Essential Body Lotion
If you have ultra-dry skin, then grab this lotion asap. It’s packed with shea and cocoa butters, as well as antioxidant-filled argan oil. Topped off with the calming scents of lavender and bergamot, this lotion is everything you need for soft, supple skin—yes, even on your neck.
Aesop Avail SPF 50 Body Lotion
Want to know a secret to great, healthy skin? Sun protection! No matter how many creams, masks, or serums you use, sun protection is one of the best ways to keep your skin healthy and youthful. Enter: this lotion. It’s infused with broad spectrum SPF 50, but won’t leave your skin with an oily feel or white, ashy finish like your average sunscreens.
NaturaBisse C+C Vitamin Summer Lotion
Ok, so this is called a summer lotion, but can you really put a seasonal timeframe around the benefits of vitamin C and hydrating aloe vera? Of course not.
Paula’s Choice Resist Weightless Body Treatment 2% BHA
When the going gets tough (or rather, flaky), then it’s time to bring out the big guns. This lotion may feel lightweight on skin, but it’s packed with salicylic acid to slough away flaky, dead skin patches to reveal your softest, most radiant skin.