Maintaining the Décolletage

The skin on the décolletage is thinner and contains fewer oil glands than the skin on the face. Because this area is frequently exposed to environmental elements without the protection afforded by clothing, it often shows signs of wear prematurely. Maintaining the area requires a departure from standard facial routines to account for the larger surface area and different skin architecture.

Neglect often stems from viewing the chest as a separate entity from the face. By extending your existing routine downward, you provide the hydration and protection necessary to keep the skin supple.

1. Gentle cleansing. Cleanse the area with a mild, non-stripping facial cleanser. Use circular motions with your fingertips, covering the space from the base of the neck to the center of the sternum. Rinse with lukewarm water to avoid disrupting the skin barrier.
2. Hydration application. While the skin remains slightly damp, apply a lightweight moisturizer. Pat the product into the skin rather than rubbing aggressively. The goal is to lock in moisture without stretching the tissue.
3. Sun protection. Apply a generous amount of broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. This is the most significant step in preventing further environmental impact. Ensure you cover the entire expanse from shoulder to shoulder.
4. Nighttime nourishment. In the evening, follow cleansing with an emollient cream that contains lipids or ceramides. This helps replenish the moisture lost throughout the day. Focus on the center chest where the skin is particularly prone to fine lines.
5. Posture check. Maintain an upright posture when sitting for long periods. Consistent hunching creates folds in the skin of the décolletage. Conscious positioning helps the skin remain smooth during the day.

Treat the chest as an extension of the face, not a separate zone.