You’ve maintained your skincare routine, you eat well, you’ve even mastered the art of flattering necklines — but suddenly, you catch a glimpse in the mirror and think:
“When did my neck start to sag?”

You’re not imagining it. The delicate skin and muscles of the neck are often the first to show signs of aging — and once sagging begins, it can progress quickly if left unaddressed.

Known colloquially as “turkey neck,” this condition — medically referred to as cervical laxity — affects countless people, regardless of gender. And while it’s a natural part of aging, understanding why it happens is the first step toward slowing it down — or even reversing it.

1. The Anatomy of the Neck: Why It’s So Vulnerable
The neck is a complex structure made up of:

Thin, delicate skin
The platysma muscle — a broad, flat muscle that runs from the chest up to the jaw
Connective tissues and fat layers
Unlike the face, the neck has fewer oil glands, thinner skin, and less collagen — making it more prone to sagging and wrinkling. The platysma muscle, which helps control neck movement and facial expression, tends to weaken and separate with age, creating vertical bands and loose skin.

2. Aging: The #1 Culprit Behind Neck Sagging
As we age, our bodies produce less collagen and elastin — the proteins responsible for skin firmness and elasticity.

After age 20, we lose about 1% of collagen per year.
By the time you’re 40, your skin is noticeably thinner and less resilient.
Without structural support, the skin on the neck begins to droop, and the jawline blurs.
This natural decline is inevitable — but it doesn’t have to happen quickly.

3. Sun Exposure: Accelerating the Clock