In 2003, Nora Ephron famously lamented her aging neck at the age of 62. Fast forward to today, and a new trend, dubbed “tech neck,” is causing young adults in their 20s to express similar concerns. This phenomenon is widely discussed on social media and acknowledged by experts in dermatology, plastic surgery, and physical therapy.
The term “tech neck” is not a medical diagnosis but rather a colloquial expression. It describes the horizontal creases on the neck and changes in posture, such as rounded shoulders and a forward head position, often resulting from prolonged use of digital devices.
While anyone can experience tech neck, social media suggests that women in their 20s and 30s are particularly concerned about addressing its signs. Many are investing large sums, sometimes exceeding $5,000, to reduce fine lines and improve posture.
Lindsey Wallace, a marketing director in Los Angeles, became aware of tech neck through an Instagram reel. “It became my latest fixation when I looked in the mirror and noted lines getting deeper,” Wallace shared with Business Insider. “As soon as I turned 30, I would say is when I became concerned.” She attributes her condition to spending over 10 hours a day hunched over a computer.
$5,000 for a Fresher Neck
Dr. Kristy Hamilton, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Houston, describes tech neck as both a musculoskeletal and aesthetic concern. “When a person hunches over a laptop, tablet, or phone for a lengthy period of time, the head tilts forward and places significant stress on the cervical spine and surrounding tissues,” she explained. The neck’s thinner skin ages faster than the face due to constant movement, leading to creases. A persistent downward posture exacerbates this aging process by repeatedly folding the skin and weakening supportive muscles.
While short-term effects include stiffness and soreness, untreated tech neck can lead to spinal misalignment, chronic pain, and accelerated skin aging. For Wallace, the aesthetic impact is significant, prompting her to spend at least $5,000 on various treatments.
Her regimen includes nightly applications of neck firming cream, a red light therapy mask, a hydrating collagen neck mask, and a high-frequency wand. She also undergoes a biannual laser treatment called CoolPeel, costing about $1,200 to $1,600 per session, which she credits with reversing her fine lines.
Others, like Lauren Cummings from New York City, have also invested in tech neck treatments. Cummings has spent approximately $1,000 on chiropractic care, tightening creams, and a single session of a laser treatment.
Neck-maxxing Now to Prevent Tech Neck Later
Chloe Coles, a health and wellness PR account executive in San Diego, is proactive about tech neck. “I’d say I’m more concerned that it could become a problem, so I try to stay on top of it before it gets there,” she said. The women in her office make efforts to prevent tech neck by keeping screens at eye level, using standing desks, and utilizing red light therapy devices.
Coles estimates she has spent a few hundred dollars on neck skincare, weight training, yoga, Pilates, and massages to combat tech neck. Yahya Khan, a New York City-based founder, has also noticed lines on his neck, spending around $400 on treatments. “When you’re running a business, and your appearance is part of how clients perceive your credibility, you notice things,” he said.
All Aboard the Tech-Neck Prevention Train
Anti-aging neck creams have long been popular, but the rise of tech neck has created new opportunities for skincare brands to target younger consumers. Ulta, a retailer favored by people aged 25 to 30, has introduced several neck-focused products. SickScience’s ShapeShift Advanced Jaw & Neck Firming Serum and Anua’s Collagen Retinol Refining Gua Sha Cream are among the products addressing tech neck concerns.
How to Prevent Tech Neck
Preventing tech neck involves setting up a workstation that promotes good posture. Dr. Maya Thosani, a dermatologist in Scottsdale, suggests extending your facial skincare routine to your neck and upper chest. “Consistent care will likely be more effective than using specialty neck creams,” she advised.
Lindsey Wallace, who has invested heavily in maintaining her neck’s appearance, emphasizes the importance of regular treatments. “If I wake up in the morning and I didn’t do any treatments the night before — no serums, no mask, no neck wrinkle-cutting cream — you instantly wake up and see the difference,” she said, cautioning that some treatments can be quite intense.
