You’ve probably perfected your skincare routine, knowing exactly how long each step will take, which products to use, and the order to apply them in. However, many of us forget another very important part of any skincare routine—the neck and décolleté which is the delicate part of the upper chest. Neglecting these areas can show a noticeable difference in texture, tone, and overall skin health between your face and your neck and décolleté.
What Makes the Skin of the Neck and Décolleté Different?
The skin on the neck and décolleté is thinner, more delicate, and has fewer oil glands compared to facial skin. This makes it more prone to dryness, sagging, and visible signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage. A drier skin barrier means it’s weaker, making it more susceptible to environmental stressors. Also, because it’s often exposed and usually not treated, the neck and décolleté can show signs of aging sooner than the face.
Less Structural Support
Your neck has less fatty tissue and collagen compared to your face. Collagen is what gives your skin its firmness and elasticity. As we age, collagen production naturally declines, and since the skin on the neck and décolleté has less, it can start to sag and loosen sooner than the skin on our face.
Constant Movement
Think about how often you move your head. Due to the constant movement of folding and creasing, the skin on your neck starts to form lines. This can also be known as "tech neck”—the hunched posture we make when looking at phones and screens.
What are Signs of Aging on the Neck and Décolleté?
Because the skin on your neck and décolleté is different and often more exposed than your face, it can show signs of aging sooner and more noticeably. Here are some signs of aging:
- Sunspots⎯The neck and décolleté are more prone to sun damage since they’re often overlooked in your skincare routine or when applying sunscreen. This can lead to sunspots and uneven skin tone.
- Sagging⎯The skin in this area is more likely to sag because it’s naturally thin.
- Horizontal Neck Lines⎯These lines wrap around the neck and are caused by a combination of aging, sun damage, and repetitive movements.
- Crepey Skin Texture⎯Due to the loss of collagen and elastin as we age, combined with dehydrated skin, can give the skin a thin, crinkled, paper-like appearance.
What Are the Best Neck and Décolleté Treatments?
Treating your neck and décolleté not only helps promote overall skin health, but also helps maintain firm, balanced skin.
Use Sunscreen Daily
Using sunscreen is one of the most important steps in a skincare routine. “UV exposure [could] account for up to 80% of visible signs of aging in the skin including dry appearance, scalping, wrinkling and impaired pigmentation.” Make it a habit to apply sunscreen every single morning to your face, neck, and chest, regardless of the weather. If you’re outside for long periods of time or are sweating, be sure to reapply your sunscreen every two hours. Shop our recommended sunscreens.
Cleanse and Moisturize
Treat your neck and décolleté as an extension of your face. When you wash your face, wash your neck and chest as well with a cleanser. Shop our recommended cleansers.
Since this area has fewer oil glands, it needs moisture. When applying moisturizer, use upward strokes on your neck and chest to avoid tugging downward, which can stress and stretch the skin. A moisturizer rich in ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and peptides can help hydrate and firm the skin. Shop our recommended moisturizers.
Use Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy is an effective way to support the skin’s natural repair and rejuvenation process, especially on delicate areas like the neck and décolleté. Treatments like the Omnilux Neck and Décolleté device use clinically proven wavelengths to help stimulate collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Targeted Treatments in the DC Metro Area
Getting regular neck and décolleté treatments from a skincare expert can make a noticeable difference in how your skin looks and feels. At Sarah Akram Skincare, our Master Estheticians will assess your skin type, concerns, and needs, and create a skincare routine for you. Reserve your appointment today for a skin consultation to get personalized treatment for lasting skin health.
