When it comes to skincare, most of us think of facial routines, we often neglect or pay no attention to our neck and décolletage (a term coined by the French). This area of the skin is very thin and can easily be just as exposed to the UV rays, pollution, and oxidation. That’s why you need to extend your skincare regime to your neck and chest. This area also has fewer sebaceous glands than your face does, causing a lack of natural hydration, which makes it more prone to dryness, wrinkles and damage. Since the decolletage area is exposed to the sun and environmental aggressors, it can show signs of ageing a lot sooner than other parts of the body, in the form of sagging skin, and an uneven skin tone. Plus, your skin tends to lose elasticity as we grow older, which means your skin will need some more TLC. But, don’t worry, we’ve got a myriad of products that have been specifically engineered to target these issues. Consider formulations that contain retinoids, glycolic acid and hydrating ingredients your best bet. Retinol when applied in the right amount helps exfoliate, resurface the skin and improve its appearance and texture. Hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid helps keep the skin looking plump, visibly reduces signs of ageing, and leaves your skin feeling smooth, supple and hydrated. Scroll ahead for an easy, step-by-step routine that will help keep your neck and chest looking youthful and healthy.
Step 1: Cleanse and Exfoliate
Start your shower routine with a gentle creamy body wash to cleanse the skin without over-drying your skin. Exfoliate twice a week to eliminate dead skin cells and product build up.
Step 2: Treat
Treat this area with the same serums, peels and toners as you use on your face. Pick ones that offer hydrating and anti-aging benefits. Use it everyday to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, boost collagen production, and even out skin tone.
Step 3: Moisturise
Make up for the lack of natural hydration with neck and chest creams or oils to give your skin some smoothing and moisturising benefits. You can also use a roller to gently massage the product in for maximum results.
Step 4: Protect
Finally apply your SPF! Sun damage is a major contributing factor to the depletion of your skin’s health. Make sure to lather up the neck and decollete area with a broad-spectrum sunscreen everyday for better protection.