Though the neckline and chest area are some of the most viewed parts of the body and the most likely to reveal your age, they’re still the least pampered. Don’t overlook your neck and dècolletè any longer by following these tips.
1. Provide protection
“The way your neck ages is about 20 percent genetics... and 80 percent skin care habits,” writes dermatologist Leslie Baumann, M.D., on Yahoo Health. And what’s the easiest, most effective skin care habit? That’s slathering on the sunscreen, which is your number one weapon against aging skin.
Every time you head outdoors, apply sunscreen to these areas (and all exposed areas) 20 to 30 minutes before leaving the house. Remember to look for sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection, meaning it shields the skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
2. Share your basic routine
Sometimes we don’t want to use our skin care products on larger areas like the neck and chest, because we see that as wasting our best resources. But being stingy with your skin care can mean dull, sagging, aging skin.
Instead, make your neck and dècolletè part of your morning and nightly regimen by applying your cleanser, serum and moisturizer on these areas, too. When applying serum, use both tapping motions and circular motions to help your skin completely absorb the product.
Just like your complexion, your neck and dècolletè also need exfoliation. So simply extend your exfoliant to these areas several times a week.
3. Include specialty products
You can also incorporate a product that’s specifically formulated for the neck and dècolletè into your daily routine.
4. Do damage control
If you’re already noticing sun damage or aging skin, know that many treatment options are available. Because of their exfoliating properties, alpha hydroxy acids, particularly glycolic acid, are ideal for helping damaged skin.
- Exfoliate with Dr. Michelle Copeland AHA Body Smoothing Lotion, which contains the highest level of alpha hydroxy acids along with kojic acid to effectively exfoliate and even the skin.
- After exfoliating, follow with a rich anti-aging moisturizer. SkinMedica Dermal Repair drenches the skin, reduces age spots and provides protection, with such potent ingredients as antioxidants, vitamins C and E, retinol, hyaluronic acid and omega-3 fatty acid.
5. Indulge
There are many ways to pamper your dècolletage. Some day spas offer special masks that target the neck and chest as well as massage therapy to help support firm, taut and healthy skin.
Also, try at-home treatments like massage oils with vitamins A or E and nourishing creams with anti-aging ingredients like retinol, beech extract or vitamin C.
6. See a professional
You’ll find many choices at your doctor’s office, and these aren’t limited to surgery. You can attain a younger-looking neck and dècolletè with Botox, various volumizers and mild to medium chemical peels. For more information on these kinds of treatments, check out our interviews with cosmetic dermatologist Nelson Lee Novick, M.D., on non-surgical alternatives for the neck and dècolletè.
Also, talk to your doctor about Retin-A, a prescription-strength retinoid that boosts collagen and improves texture. Dr. Baumann tells Good Housekeeping that because the neck is more sensitive than the face, begin using the product once a week for several weeks.
So, remember putting your best face forward doesn’t only refer to your facial features. By giving the neck and décolleté the same attention and pampering you give your face, you’ll attain beautiful, healthy skin on these usually neglected areas.
Learn everything you need to know about anti-aging skincare in our Anti-Aging Handbook.