What is tech neck?

Tech neck caused and treatments, West Malling, Kent

 In today’s digital age, our lives are increasingly intertwined with technology. From smartphones and tablets to laptops and desktop computers, we spend a significant portion of our day hunched over screens, texting, browsing, or working. While technology has undoubtedly improved our lives in many ways, it has also given rise to a concern known as “Tech Neck.” Read on to explore what Tech Neck is, what causes it, and discuss various treatment options and skincare tips to help alleviate its symptoms.

What is tech neck?

Tech Neck is essentially a discomfort in the neck region, often associated with the ageing process. However, it is increasingly affecting the younger generation, primarily due to poor posture resulting from excessive use of smartphones and tablets. Neck pain is not the only symptom of tech neck however, tech neck wrinkles or tech neck lines are becoming an increased concern for many. Also known as necklace lines these are horizontal lines that cross over the neck which are typically caused when collagen and elastin production in the skin decreases.

Neck lines have become an increasingly common concern that we see in the clinic due to the fact that they’re developing much earlier due to the excessive use of technology. We spend an average of 4.8 hours a day on our phones and even more on laptops. Not only does looking down do us no favours in the saggy chin department, but the blue light also adds to the issue of ageing. The natural ageing process slows down the production of collagen, an essential structural protein that gives skin its foundation, elasticity and firmness.

Fortunately, however, there is a lot we can do to combat tech neck and unwanted sagging skin…

What are the best options for tech neck?

Profhilo

Profhilo is an injectable skin remodelling treatment containing one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid (HA) on the market and is especially formulated for people whose skin lacks volume and elasticity. When used on the jawline, it can be very effective at strengthening and thickening skin, smoothing wrinkles and restoring proper skin tension to lift the jawline and upper part of the neck.

Retinol

It’s not just professional treatments that can help. If you’re not keen on them, or if your budget won’t stretch to such procedures, try retinol. Even though there are many natural factors that contribute to ageing in the neck area, for many women it’s an area that isn’t given much attention. Retinol helps to build new collagen in the skin. In studies, it has been shown to block the enzymes that cause collagen degradation. It also helps you grow new, tiny blood vessels in the deeper skin layers to help nourish your complexion and create thicker, firmer skin whilst also reducing fine lines and crepeyness.

Microneedling

Microneedling is a great treatment option for neck lines and wrinkles and has many other benefits. It uses tiny needles in an automated pen to puncture the upper layer of skin. By creating these microscopic ‘micro-channels’ in the skin, the dermis is forced to switch to its ‘defence mode’ as it races to heal the wounded skin, which results in greater elastin and collagen production. Over time, this helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and elevates the overall texture. And that’s not all, microneedling creates a channel to the deeper layers of skin to fast-track your skincare ingredients deep into the dermis, making them work even harder. It delivers an instant radiance to the skin with minimal to no downtime.

Sofwave

Ultrasound devices (we use Sofwave) have also been proven to stimulate the growth of new collagen from well below the surface. It involves generating enough heat within the skin that the collagen has been damaged. When it is damaged, it shrinks a little, so you get a small immediate tightening effect, and then, to try and repair itself, the skin produces more collagen, which helps strengthen, smooth and firm up the skin.

If you’d like to learn more about the options, click here to enquire or to book a consultation.