The neck and jawline are often overlooked in skincare routines, yet they're among the first areas to show signs of ageing. Horizontal neck lines, crepey texture and a softer jawline are all common. Microneedling can help these areas look smoother and firmer over time. Here's what it can realistically do, and how to work on these areas safely.
The short answer: microneedling encourages fresh collagen and elastin, which can help the neck and jawline look firmer and smoother and soften the look of fine neck lines. Use a 24-pin cartridge at 0.6mm, glide gently with taut skin, and repeat every four weeks. It won't lift significant sagging, but it can make a visible difference to texture and firmness.
Why the neck and jawline change with age
- Thinner skin. Neck skin is thinner than facial skin, with fewer oil glands.
- Collagen loss with age, reducing firmness.
- Sun exposure, as the neck is often forgotten when applying SPF.
- Repeated movement, including looking down at phones, which can deepen horizontal lines.
What microneedling can and can't do
| It can help | It can't |
|---|---|
| Crepey, thin-looking skin look smoother | Lift significant sagging or jowls |
| Fine horizontal neck lines look softer | Replace surgical or professional tightening treatments |
| Skin look firmer and more even | Change fat or muscle beneath the skin |
Your at-home routine
Cartridge and depth
- 24-pin at 0.6mm for the neck, jawline and décolletage
- Nano for sensitive skin or between needle sessions
Stay at 0.6mm. Neck skin is thin, so going deeper isn't recommended at home.
Step by step
- Pause retinoids and exfoliating acids a few days before.
- Cleanse your neck and jawline, then disinfect your skin, hands and pen. Let everything dry.
- Attach a new, sealed 24-pin cartridge and set 0.6mm and a low speed.
- Apply hyaluronic acid as a glide.
- Tilt your head back slightly to gently stretch the neck. Use your free hand to keep the skin taut.
- Glide in gentle, overlapping strokes, working upwards and across. Avoid pressing over the throat and the front of the windpipe.
- For the jawline, work along the bone with short strokes, keeping the skin taut.
- Finish with hyaluronic acid and a fragrance-free moisturiser.
How often
About once every four weeks, for a course of 3 to 6 sessions. Nanoneedling can be added in between, at least a week either side.
Areas to take care with
- The front of the throat: light, flat strokes only, never pressure.
- The sides of the neck: skin is thin here; keep passes to a minimum.
- Moles, skin tags and raised spots: always work around them.
Daily habits for a firmer-looking neck
- Extend your skincare to your neck, including serums and moisturiser.
- Apply SPF to your neck and chest every day.
- Use retinol on other days, introducing it slowly, as neck skin can be sensitive.
- Hold your phone at eye level where you can.
What to expect
- Within a week: smoother, more hydrated skin.
- After 2 to 3 sessions: improved texture and less crepiness.
- After 3 to 6 sessions: firmer-looking skin and softer fine lines.
Neck and jawline care with Olapen
A 24-pin cartridge on Olapen covers the neck and jawline evenly with fewer passes. The pen's lightweight, cordless design makes it easy to reach the sides of the neck and along the jaw. Every cartridge is sterile, individually sealed and single use.
Frequently asked questions
Can microneedling tighten loose neck skin?
It can help skin look firmer and smoother, but it won't lift significant sagging.
What depth should I use on my neck?
0.6mm. Neck skin is thin, so going deeper isn't recommended at home.
Can microneedling help tech neck lines?
It can help fine horizontal lines look softer over a course of sessions.
Is it safe to microneedle the front of the neck?
Yes, with light, flat strokes and no pressure over the throat.
Can I microneedle my décolletage?
Yes, with a 24-pin cartridge at 0.6mm.
The bottom line
Microneedling can help the neck and jawline look smoother and firmer, and soften the look of fine neck lines. Use a 24-pin cartridge at 0.6mm, keep your touch light and the skin taut, repeat every four weeks, and don't forget SPF on your neck every day.
Microneedling and nanoneedling are cosmetic procedures. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition. If you have a skin condition or any concerns, speak to a healthcare professional.