When you use your device—whether you’re scrolling, swiping, or just staring at it—it tends to leave a mark. Many Americans find themselves spending about five hours a day staring at their smartphones. Experts now warn that this excessive screen time might be speeding up aging in ways that often go unnoticed.
Dermatologists refer to a specific issue as “tech neck,” and it’s increasingly observed among younger individuals. Here’s what you should know about it.
What is tech neck?
Tech neck is essentially the early development of wrinkles and sagging skin around the neck due to the frequent tilting of your head forward while using devices like phones and computers.
“The skin on your neck is naturally thinner and more delicate than on the rest of your body, which makes it especially vulnerable to wrinkles and lines as you age,” according to Dr. Helen He, co-director at the Mount Sinai – Clinique Healthy Skin Dermatology Center. She mentioned that she’s noticed an uptick in patients expressing concerns about neck issues, like looseness and horizontal lines.
While the problem tends to worsen with age, she pointed out that it’s becoming more common in younger patients too.
Dr. Jacob Beer, a board-certified dermatologist in Florida, has seen similar trends. He noted that when patients voice cosmetic concerns, the signs often vary depending on age.
He explained, “In younger and middle-aged patients, we frequently notice a deeper anterior cervical line due to sun damage and the habit of bending over to check devices.”
Can tech neck be prevented?
Fortunately, there is hope. Being conscious of your posture can make a difference. For instance, raising your screen to eye level rather than looking down can help alleviate strain on your neck. Additionally, proper skincare can be beneficial.
“Using a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen is essential,” she advised. Other useful topical ingredients include retinoids, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants like vitamins C and E.
Beer stressed the importance of applying sunscreen to the neck area as a way to fend off premature aging.
“I often see patients with mismatched skin tones on their face and neck, so remember to apply sunscreen,” she recommended, suggesting an SPF of 30 or higher.
Skincare products can also assist in treating conditions like eczema, which may compromise the skin barrier and exacerbate fine lines.
Can tech neck be treated?
While good skincare and sunscreen form the basis for prevention and treatment, there are in-office procedures that can help as well, according to He.
She mentioned that devices employing ultrasound or radiofrequency technology can tighten skin and promote collagen and elastin production. These technologies are effective for reducing neck sagging and wrinkles. Mr. Beer often utilizes laser treatments, particularly favoring ablative carbon dioxide lasers in his practice.
If a less invasive option is desired, superficial chemical peels can offer minimal downtime with subtle results, Beer said. For those with noticeable lines due to muscle tissue, neuromodulators like Botox are used to relax those muscles.
How else are screens aging our skin?
“We’ve noticed that when patients squint at screens, periorbital wrinkles, crow’s feet, and deep nasolabial folds become more noticeable,” Beer added.
Aside from posture and facial expressions, the devices themselves might also contribute to premature aging.
“Beyond UV radiation, we’re learning that other light wavelengths, like blue light from screens, also play a role in skin aging and hyperpigmentation,” he explained.
This risk applies to everyone, including those with darker skin tones. Blue light exposure can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to dark circles, puffiness, and reduced collagen repair.
For individuals who spend significant time looking at screens, Beer recommends using a tinted mineral sunscreen with iron oxides for added blue light protection. Such measures can help slow and reduce aging signs in the sensitive neck area.
