When we think of skincare, we tend to picture a (sometimes elaborate) daily routine that centers around the face. We all know the importance of cleansing, exfoliating and hydrating our face for a radiant, healthy complexion. However, it’s also just as important to pay attention to our décolletage area—yet while the skin here is more delicate and sensitive than the skin on our face, it can become easy for us to overlook this vital area, leaving it vulnerable to irritation, premature aging and even skin cancer. Thus, any robust skincare routine should include treatment of the décolletage for long-term anti-aging benefits.
The décolletage area is defined as the area south of the chin, encompassing the neck and chest. The composition of the skin in this area differs greatly from that of the face. As dermatologist Harold Lancer notes in Violet Grey, “The dermis and the epidermis are thinner and more fragile, there is very little subsurface fat, and there is both a different blood flow and different characteristics of color distribution and melanocytes.” If you don’t pay extra attention to this sensitive area, the skin here may become more prone to collagen breakdown, sun spots, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, diminished elasticity and more.
While this may seem alarming, most of the damage that the décolletage encounters results from our own skincare behaviors; we can take our skin health into our own hands by simply changing some of our habits. So how can you give this delicate area the care and attention it deserves? Here’s a breakdown of how to keep the décolletage in youthful, radiant condition.
TRY TO STAY OUT OF THE SUN
While sunshine is a great mood booster and can increase vitamin D levels, too much sun exposure can lead to negative anti-aging effects stemming from free radical damage, like hyperpigmentation and wrinkles. It can also increase one’s risk of developing skin cancer. It’s thus important to be mindful of how much time you’re spending in the sun, and when: the sun’s rays are most intense between 10am and 4pm, so try to plan outdoor activities with that in mind,
IF YOU DO SPEND TIME IN THE SUN, APPLY SPF!
Sometimes sun exposure can’t be avoided, in which case it becomes crucial to apply SPF not only to the décolletage, but to all exposed areas of the skin. Even if you’re just stepping outside to run an errand, it’s not a bad idea to make it a habit of applying sunscreen every day. As ReVive Skincare founder Gregory Bays Brown tells Violet Grey, “I always say the most important anti-aging cream anyone can purchase is sunscreen, especially for the décolletage and neck.” The Academy of American Dermatologists recommends using a sunscreen that is water-resistant, provides broad-spectrum protection and is a SPF 30 or higher (though a higher SPF is even better).
EXFOLIATE
In addition to taking preventative measures like protecting your skin against free radical damage, you can also improve the vitality and radiance of your décolletage by exfoliating regularly. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, thus leading to skin renewal and brightness; however, make sure not to exfoliate more than 2-3 times a week, as over-exfoliation can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to irritation and breakouts.
USE A LIGHT, GENTLE TOUCH WHEN CLEANSING
HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE
One of the most important ways you can build up the strength of the décolletage area and to protect it from developing wrinkles, diminished elasticity and other anti-aging concerns is by keeping the skin deeply hydrated. We recommend looking for moisturizing products with antioxidants, which, as research has shown, neutralizes free radical damage.
Given how important it is to hydrate and nourish this sensitive area, we have our own UMA Flawlessly Firming Chest Neck & Décolletage Serum, which was specifically designed with antioxidant-rich ingredients to deliver long-lasting moisture to the décolletage. This potent blend of powerful anti-aging ingredients like frankincense, sandalwood and pomegranate oils works to increase skin elasticity and firmness, reduce unevenness and age spots and boost overall hydration.
To use this gentle and hydrating serum, take 3-5 drops of serum and warm between palms, then gently pat into neck, chest and décolletage. Massage gently in firm upward strokes for 30-45 seconds. Use morning and evening on cleansed and toned skin.
By taking the time to care for your décolletage, you can work to combat signs of premature aging and cultivate skin that is hydrated, nourished and radiant.
