In this blog we look at ways to avoid the saggy or droopy skin caused by bad posture - also known as "Tech Neck".
Ever advancing technologies have drastically changed how we interact with the world. This has brought great benefits but can also have a negative effect on both our mental and physical condition.
We’re now able to instantly connect with those on the other side of the globe and share thoughts, ideas, news and pictures as and when we want. The ever increasing popularity of social media can be beneficial to all areas of life whether social, work or keeping in touch with family.
In the UK alone it’s thought that around 64% (almost 50 million people) of the population now own a smartphone and this figure only continues to rise. (http://www.pjweb.co.uk/mobile-websites/uk-mobile-browsing-statistics/)
People who own smart phones typically check them very regularly - up to 150 times a day apparently. So, it’s hardly surprising that this constant motion of looking down at a tablet, smartphone or laptop can cause problems with our posture. But did you know that this can also be causing problems for the skin on our necks?
You may have heard of the term ‘Tech Neck’ which is starting to pop up all over the media. It raises concerns about those who check their mobile phones, tablets and laptops very regularly.
The action of constantly looking down can cause the neck muscles to loosen. This causes the skin to sag and increases the chance of wrinkles and other early signs of aging.
To help protect your skin and prevent sagging and wrinkles it’s essential you keep it well moisturised and nourished. Here’s a couple of ideas to help:
Carrot Seed Essential Oil in Apricot Kernel Oil:
Apricot Kernel oil is widely used by massage therapists as a gentle base oil, but it can also be used as a natural moisturiser. It is rich in Vitamins A, E and omega 6, making it incredibly nourishing and hydrating for the skin.
So, it’s just what you need to help protect the vulnerable skin on your neck. Apricot Kernel is recognised for its ability to help regenerate the skin, helping it to heal quickly and reduce the signs of lines and wrinkles.
You can use this gorgeous oil on its own. Just apply directly to the skin - pour a small amount into the palm of your hand, rub them together and gently massage over the neck.
For added benefit, you can add a few drops of Carrot Seed Oil – aim for a 3-5% blend (3-5 drops of Carrot Seed for every 5ml of Carrier Oil).
Carrot Seed Oil is high in antioxidants. This means it encourages the skin to repair and protect itself. It’s also a natural tonic which helps it to tone and tighten the skin – perfect for helping to reduce the signs of ‘Tech Neck’.
Blend together in a clean, empty bottle and shake well before each use. For best results apply all over the neck morning and night.
Luxurious Virgin Coconut oil and Lavender moisturiser:
There really are no ends to the benefits of Virgin Coconut Oil. It has many uses and works wonders on helping prevent, protect and rejuvenate saggy and out of condition skin.
Its content of saturated fats allows it to help your skin retain its moisture content, whilst the Vitamin E and proteins present in Coconut Oil promote healthy skin growth and repair.
Virgin Coconut Oil will work wonderfully on its own but if you’d like to add some extra properties from an essential oil, you can add a few drops of Lavender essential oil (the scents work nicely together as well). Another extremely versatile oil, Lavender is great for helping to heal and regenerate the skin.
It’s really easy to create your own moisturiser using just these two ingredients.
55 drops of Lavender Essential Oil
Simply add the Lavender to your pot of Virgin Coconut and stir until fully blended. In colder weather you might need to gently warm the Coconut Oil before you can mix it. Simply place the jar in a saucepan over a low heat for a few minutes until the Coconut Oil starts to melt.
To apply, scoop a little out and gently massage into the skin all around the neck morning and night.
The time you take to apply this moisturising blend is also a good time to allow yourself some proper pampering. Turn off your mobile phones, tablets, laptops and televisions, run a warm bath and show the skin and muscles of your neck some love.
Ensuring we are drinking plenty of water and getting a good intake of fresh fruits and vegetable is also key to keeping skin looking and feeling firm and youthful.
We hope you’ve enjoyed reading these ideas. Click here to take a look at our other blogs to see a wide variety of tips, blends and ideas covering many different subjects.