The Best Retinol Products for the Neck, According to Dermatologists

Dallas dermatologist Elizabeth Houshmand, MD calls Obagi’s Neck and Décolleté Concentrate “an investment” for delicate neck tissue. “It has a blend of a retinoid called retinyl palmitate, along with two skin brighteners (niacinamide and alpha arbutin) to help with fine lines and discoloration. It also has glycerin to soothe. It is a game-changer!” No matter what you use, Dr. Houshmand says she often recommends products with a slightly lower concentration of retinol to minimize potential irritation, especially since the skin on the neck can be more sensitive. “And remember to apply upward strokes and always follow with sunscreen during the day!”

Drs. Schlessinger both love this luxurious option, which balances and brightens.

Dr. Houshmand considers this PCA pick as a “great multitasker” for treating sun damage, wrinkles and laxity. “It is a lightweight cream formulation with retinol to boost cell turnover,” she says, adding that it is also great for discoloration because it has ingredients like licorice root to even out tone. “Peptides and calcium hydroxymethionine are key players for smoothing wrinkles and improving firmness.”

“This is a luxurious cream with a high dose of microalgae, rich in antioxidant vitamins A, C and E,” explains Dr. Houshmand. “This skin-firming cream also contains peptides and moisturizing mushroom extract great for tech neck.”

Team Schlessinger likes this clinically tested derm favorite that features time-released retinol, and recommends pairing it with Triple Lipid Restore and purchasing it as a duo.

Phoenix, AZ dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal calls this drugstore pick a “roll-on retinol” and praises it for its affordability.

Another Obagi pick in the mix, Drs. Schlessinger gives this refining night cream their seal of approval. “I am liking this product very much,” shares one happy reviewer on LovelySkin.com. “I have very sensitive skin, and retinol products alone cause my skin to dry out. This product has enough moisture that it does not cause the drying that retinol alone causes. I recommend this product.”

Considered a “next-generation body moisturizer” that also promises to reduce the appearance of cellulite, this super hydrating lotion is powered by all-trans-retinol and antioxidant-rich edelweiss flower. Bio-mimicking ceramides work to restore elasticity, while calming green tea polyphenols soothe and protect. A boost of hyaluronic acid locks in hydration, leaving skin soft and plump.

Available at Sephora, Dr. Lal likes this multifunctional product for its multiple actives. “It is great for neck, face and chest,” he says.

Clocking in with a jumbo size and an easy-to-use pump bottle, this retinol contains allantoin—a mix Dr. Lal likes because it “is so gentle for all skin types.”