Exercises For Saggy Neck Skin

While surgery will allow you to quickly reduce saggy neck skin, you may save yourself money by committing to daily neck exercises. Contact your health care provider prior to starting any exercise routine. The main muscles you want to exercise include the sternocleidomastoid, platysma, and trapezius. Together they work to flex, extend and rotate your neck, according to the book, "Structure and Function of the Body." Regular neck exercise may help improve muscle tone and tighten your skin.

Neck Stretches

Neck stretches will help increase or maintain the flexibility of your neck as they strengthen your muscles and help tighten neck skin. Start by tilting your head back until you can look at the ceiling. Hold for five seconds, then return your head to a neutral position. Continue stretching your neck by slowly tilting your head to the left. Only go as far as you find comfortable, stretches should not cause pain. Hold for five second and return your head to a neutral position. Repeat on the right side. The last stretch works the muscles that help rotate your head. Turn your head slowly to look over your left shoulder and hold for five seconds. Return your head to the neutral position. Finally, repeat on the right side. Perform three sets of five to 10 repetitions of each neck stretch, according to the University of Maryland Environmental Safety Department. Avoid circular motions with your head while stretching your neck.

Resistance Exercises

You can perform resistance exercises for your neck while sitting or standing. Most people find the sitting position the easiest, according to the Ohio State University Medical Center. Begin by placing your hands on your forehead. Try to bend your head forward as you resist the movement with your hands, yet still allow your head to move. Next, place your hands on the back of your head and resist movement as you try to lean your head back to look at the ceiling. Resist attempts to tilt your head to your shoulder by placing your hand on the side of your head; use your right hand if tilting your head to the right and your left hand if tilting your head to the left. Resist head turns to the right by placing your right hand at chin level on your right cheek. Finally, resist turning your head to the left by using your left hand at chin level on your left cheek. Repeat each exercise five to 10 times.

Isometric Exercises

Avoid moving your neck while doing isometric exercises. Perform the same exercises as described in the resistance exercises section, only apply enough force to prevent your neck from moving to make them isometric exercises. If you have shoulder problems or cannot apply enough pressure using your hands to prevent neck movement, perform the exercises lying down. Use the bed or floor for resistance. Place a pillow under your head to improve comfort while strengthening your neck. Perform five repetitions of each exercise to start, according to the Center for Orthopedic and Sports Excellence in Los Angeles, California. However, do not overwork your muscles or you neck may become stiff.