Kim Kardashian's neck ageing opens debate about beauty standards

Reality TV star Kim Kardashian has once again captured public attention, but this time for a more personal reason - her aging neck.

During a recent red carpet interview at the Met Gala, a viral video prominently showcased the platysmal bands visible on Kardashian’s neck, igniting a firestorm of criticism surrounding her natural ageing process. 

The 44-year-old multi-media personality, known for her glamorous appearance and high-profile beauty treatments, has openly discussed experimental procedures, including Botox administered in her neck. 

However, the recent spotlight on her neck bands has prompted harsh online commentary about her visibly aging skin, illustrating a troubling double standard in societal beauty expectations.

While Kardashian has previously been candid about her cosmetic procedures, such as fillers and botox, this new phase of her appearance seems fundamentally linked to the aging process itself - a reality that many people, including Kardashian, must confront.

Platysmal bands, the muscle strips running vertically down both sides of the neck, are often considered the first signs of neck ageing.

As individuals age, the skin loses elasticity and the platysma muscle weakens, which can result in a sagging appearance.

This characteristic can be exacerbated by significant weight loss, leading to more pronounced bands and a less youthful look.

Though they pose no health risks, excessive visibility of these bands can evoke feelings of self-consciousness for some.

Critics argue that celebrities, often seen as icons of beauty, perpetuate unrealistic standards through their use of aesthetic treatments, thus magnifying the impact of visible aging when it occurs. 

Kardashian’s case epitomises the ongoing conversation about ageism in the media and challenges societal pressures to maintain a perpetually youthful facade.

What causes neck bands?

Platysmal bands are primarily caused by a combination of factors related to aging and muscle activity:

• Aging process: As we age, the skin loses elasticity and firmness, making the underlying platysma muscle more visible. The natural aging process decreases collagen and elastin production, resulting in thinner, less resilient skin.
• Muscle activity: Contrary to previous beliefs, recent studies suggest that muscle activity is a significant cause of neck bands. Frequent contractions of the platysma muscle, such as during facial expressions, can cause it to enlarge and separate over time, making the bands more prominent.
• Genetics: Some individuals may be predisposed to developing neck bands earlier or more prominently due to inherited traits, such as naturally thin skin or prominent platysma muscles.
• Environmental factors: Prolonged sun exposure without proper UV protection can accelerate skin aging and contribute to the formation of neck bands.
• Weight fluctuations: Significant weight loss can lead to excess skin and reduced fat in the neck area, revealing the platysma muscle bands.
• Lifestyle factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression have been linked to premature neck lines. Additionally, everyday actions like eating, talking, and facial expressions can contribute to the formation of platysmal bands over time.
• Gravity: The unavoidable constant force of gravity exerts a mechanical pull on the already unsupported and lax skin, contributing to the aging neck appearance.

How to prevent neck bands from forming?

While it’s not possible to completely prevent neck bands from forming, there are several strategies you can employ to delay their onset and minimise their appearance:

Skincare and protection

• Extend your skincare routine: Apply facial skincare products to your neck and chest, including retinol, vitamin C, and moisturiser.
• Sun protection: Wear UV protection, such as SPF sunscreen or protective clothing, to shield your neck from sun damage.
• Hydration: Keep the skin on your neck well-moisturised to prevent lines and wrinkles from forming.

Lifestyle habits

• Minimise neck strain: Avoid unnecessary neck strain, particularly during weightlifting or strenuous activities.
• Reduce “tech neck”: Limit prolonged periods of looking down, especially when using electronic devices like smartphones.
• Relax neck muscles: During high-intensity workouts, focus on relaxing your neck muscles to prevent excessive strain.
• Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a well-balanced diet can help keep body fat under control and support overall skin health.

Exercise and posture

• Gentle neck stretches: Instead of intense neck exercises, which may exacerbate the problem, opt for gentle neck stretches to promote muscle tone.
• Awareness during workouts: Watch yourself in the mirror when exercising to ensure you’re not tensing your neck unnecessarily.

Additional tips

• Antioxidant-rich skincare: Use products with anti-aging benefits and antioxidants to protect your neck skin from damage.
• Consider preventive treatments: Some people opt for early treatments like our wrinkle-reducing treatments to delay the onset of visible neck bands.
• By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine, you can help delay the formation of neck bands and maintain a more youthful appearance of your neck area.

Treatment for platysmal bands isn’t necessary since it’s not a medical concern. But some people may wish to diminish the appearance of these bands.

The following treatments may help: 

• Platysmal bands Botox treatment

Botox isn’t just for wrinkles. A 2018 research review showed that it may help reduce the appearance of platysmal bands by relaxing the muscles in the neck.

“We can use Botox to get rid of platysmal bands, which will cause unbunching and lifting of the jaw. We call it the Nefertiti lift,” says Dr Paul Jarrod Frank, a cosmetic dermatologist and author of "The Pro-Aging Playbook". 

The use of Botox in the lower face and neck is considered off-label, but it’s considered safe and relatively painless.

Side effects may include minor bruising and discomfort. Since it’s temporary, you’ll have to maintain results every 3 to 4 months.

• Dermal fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable treatments used to plump up the skin. It uses gel-like substances, such as hyaluronic acid, poly-L-lactic acid, or calcium hydroxyapatite.

Like Botox, common side effects include bruising, swelling and redness, or discolouration.

Dermal fillers are temporary, lasting around 6 to 12 months.

• Platysmaplasty (neck lift)

If you want dramatic results, consider a platysmaplasty.

This is a cosmetic surgery that tightens the skin and muscles at their weakest points. This results in a smoother neck, as well as a sharper jawline.

• Lower facelift

This is when a doctor tightens up the skin below the corners of your mouth. Excess skin is also trimmed to provide a more youthful look.

This surgery is typically performed by a plastic surgeon or an ENT facial plastic surgeon. While it’s significantly more expensive than the noninvasive options, it’s considered more effective.

As with all surgeries, there’s a risk of complications including bleeding, infection, nerve damage, and scarring.