Tech neck: what it is and how to treat it
Q: Tech neck is a modern-day ager. What’s the best way to treat it?
People are spending more time looking down at their smartphones and tablets than ever before, which has a significant effect on their facial contours. “Tech neck” – when someone repeatedly cranes their head down to look at a screen – is a modern-day condition that causes the skin on the neck to age prematurely.
This forward-bent position restricts the tissue’s normal metabolism, causing fluid accumulation and excess fat storage in the lower part of the face, which can lead to the formation of a new wrinkle, running from under the chin along the neck.
As we age, we lose density and elasticity in our tissue. The dermoepidermal junction flattens, causing tissue to sag, and the synthesis of macromolecules such as collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid slow down.
On the face, this shows as slackening of the skin and migration of fat. Facial contours that were once V-shaped are now U-shaped, which can make us look old, tired and give the impression of weight gain.
When treating this area, use products with active ingredients to promote lipolysis and burn fat from the tissue, activating the synthesis of macromolecules to lift the face, helping to reverse the ageing process.
Minna Takalo is the UK national education manager for French skincare brand Sothys. She has more than 12 years’ experience in beauty therapy, professional skincare and education