Why You Should Apply Skin Care Products on Your Décolletage

When it comes to skin care, you’ve likely heard that you shouldn’t neglect your neck. And while that’s true, wouldn’t the same thing go for the décolletage (aka your chest)? To get the low down on why you should bring your skin care down below the neck, we consulted with Dr. Flor A. Mayoral, a board-certified dermatologist based in Coral Gables, Florida. Ahead, she explains why your décolletage  needs love too and how to properly care for the skin there.  

Where Is Your Décolletage?

First things first, let’s break down where exactly the area in question is. The décolletage also includes the skin below your chin —including the neck area — down to your chest, where you might think about spraying perfume. 

Why You Should Care for Your Décolletage

According to Mayoral, you should treat the skin on your décolletage as you would the skin on your face since the area is just as susceptible to aging and breakouts.  

“People often forget to protect the skin in this area, especially neglecting it when it comes to sunscreen and leaving it exposed to the elements,” she explains. If left uncared for, this area is susceptible to sunburn, which can lead to premature signs of aging (like wrinkles and fine lines) or even skin cancer. So, if you take the time to care for the skin on your face, be sure to do the same for your décolletage — you won’t want it giving away your age. 

How to Care for Your Décolletage

As a general rule of thumb, replicate your skin care routine on your décolletage. 

1. Cleanse 

“Using a mild cleanser on your neck and décolletage is best,” says Mayoral. The L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Nourishing Cream Cleanser is great for this, as it cleans skin without overdrying, leaving it soft and silky smooth. 

2. Exfoliate 

In the same cadence that you would exfoliate your face (two to three times a week), you should exfoliate your neck. “A mild glycolic acid product should do the trick,”  Mayoral says. 

If you’re looking for a recommendation, check out the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 5% Glycolic Acid Peeling Toner. Infused with aloe vera, the formula is gentle yet effective in reducing the appearance of dark spots and reveals an overall youthful glow. 

3. Moisturize 

It’s important to moisturize your neck and décolletage every day. Mayoral recommends using a hyaluronic acid serum, like the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum, to hydrate the delicate skin below your chin. 

4. Apply Sunscreen

In addition to liberally applying sunscreen to your neck and chest, Mayoral suggests using photoprotective clothing. “Don’t forget that UVA rays go right through your windows, so even if you’re inside, you should protect your skin from damage,” she warns. 

5. Treat 

“If you have a breakout on your chest, you can use products similar to those used on the face,” Mayoral says. “Remember, though, that benzoyl peroxide and other active ingredients can bleach clothing.” 

What to Keep in Mind About Décolletage Skin Care

Aside from potential clothing discoloration, there are a few more things to keep in mind when it comes to applying active skin care ingredients on your décolletage. 

“Retinoids cause shedding of the top layer of skin, so if your doctor prescribes a retinoid, use it sparingly on your chest,” she explains. “When your clothing or jewelry rubs over this area, especially when it’s shedding, you may experience some irritation.” 

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Written By: Caitlyn Martyn, Photo Credit: Chaunte Vaughn