Written by: Stephanie Borjas, NP
The world of beauty focuses on skincare for the face and oftentimes neglects skincare for the neck. The neck has the ability to give away someone’s age even if they’re taking great care of their face. The aging neck brings a loss in muscle tone and skin laxity that can cause something called platysmal bands. As we get older, our skin loses elasticity and structural support due to a decrease in elastin and collagen. Platysmal bands look like webbing on the sides of the neck and are caused by aging and thickenin
g of two edges of the neck muscles that run up the front left and right sides of your neck. Aging, sun exposure and neck strain are the top reasons for the development and increased appearance of platysmal bands.
Treatment
Unfortunately, platysmal bands are a natural part of aging and cannot be completely prevented but there are ways to limit their severity. Sun exposure is a contributing factor of platysmal bands because it speeds up aging, which thins the skin and makes the platysmal bands look more obvious and prominent. Daily sunscreen, even during the winter months is crucial for It is important to incorporate your neck into your skincare routine.
A neck lift or Platysmaplasty is a surgical option for the treatment of platysmal bands. For those averse to going under the knife, treatment with neurotoxins along the bands themselves in an option. Botox is a minimally invasive way to help treat the platysmal bands by softening the appearance of the vertical lines. Botox is a safe way to temporarily relax platysmal bands and the appearance of horizontal neck creases. Between 40-100 units of Botox are injected at 1-1.5 cm intervals in a vertical fashion, depending on the patient. The onset of this treatment begins in 5-7 days and shows a full effect in 2 weeks with treatment lasting 3-6 months. Individual results may vary depending on the degree of skin laxity.
Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers such as our Juvederm line injected by an experienced injector can help reduce the appearance of platysmal bands. The hyaluronic acid found in fillers can help maintain skin elasticity and make the neck have a smoother contour.
For a more youthful appearing neck, come see us at L-Aesthetics & Longevity where one of our experienced injectors and aestheticians can provide you with a consultation for the best individualized treatment option for your needs!