Handle with care: Neck creams

At some point, we all come to understand what Nora Ephron meant when she said, "I feel bad about my neck". It's one of the first places to show signs of age, sun damage and loss of elasticity. And while there's still no cure for gravity, there are a number of targeted treatments designed to lift, firm and strengthen this delicate area.

Neck creams should be applied twice a day, with gentle massage to boost absorption, increase circulation and reshape the jawline. They can be used by mature and younger women alike to treat and prevent the signs of ageing. In the morning, follow with sunscreen to prevent further damage.

Chantecaille's Biodynamic Lifting Neck Cream aims to tackle every conceivable skin concern, from wrinkles to dehydration and pigmentation. Ingredients include raspberry stem cells to repair damaged skin, floral-derived glaucine to reduce excess fat, and a botanical complex to lighten and brighten the skin.

Equally comprehensive, Bellefontaine's Ultra-Lift Neck Cream stimulates cell renewal while nourishing and firming the skin. A hexapeptide works to reduce the depth of wrinkles, while shea butter promotes regeneration. An exclusive blend of botanical extracts also works to combat skin irritation caused by stress and pollution.

To combat the lack of natural oils in the neck area, Sisley has created a silky Neck Cream with rhatany and lady's mantle - a root extract and perennial plant, respectively, with anti-inflammatory properties. The easily absorbed cream also hydrates and firms this fragile area.

The antioxidant-rich grape seed oil is the key ingredient in Korean skincare brand Skinfood's Grape Seed Oil Wrinkle Neck Cream. The natural oil is rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids with known anti-ageing effects. The floral-scented cream can be applied on damp skin to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.