Photo and creative direction by John-Paul Pietros for the Vogue Philippines September 2023 Issue
Extending from the graceful neck to the alluring chest, the décolletage beckons for unique and meticulous care.
Beyond our faces, good skincare should extend towards the rest of our bodies. The delicate skin spanning the neck and chest, known as the décolletage, is an overlooked yet crucial area for our skin’s health. Often susceptible to sun damage and neglect, this area demands a tailored skincare regimen to maintain elasticity and preserve its natural radiance. With thinner and more delicate skin, this area is often stretched out due to repetitive movement. It is also more vulnerable to the harmful effects of sun exposure, such as skin cancer, sunspots, and skin tags. This area also has fewer oil glands and collagen, making the skin more prone to fine lines and wrinkles.
Crafting an effective skincare routine for the décolletage involves understanding its unique needs, implementing gentle yet targeted practices, and harnessing the right products to nurture and protect this often-neglected but vital part of your skin.
Skincare for Your Décolletage Area
The décolletage, being thin and delicate, requires gentle care to minimize damage and premature aging. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advises against vigorously scrubbing this area during cleansing, as it can irritate the skin. Instead, use a gentle cleansing method using fingertips and lukewarm water to avoid unnecessary stress. A gentle exfoliator can prevent dead skin cell accumulation on the neck and chest, enhance circulation, and prepare the skin for moisturization. When applying products to the neck and chest, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick suggests using upward motions to promote a lifted look and counteract the effects of gravity.
Sun protection is essential for décolletage skincare. You don’t have to give up your daily dose of vitamin D, but managing sun exposure is crucial to avoid skin damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Plan activities in shaded areas to enjoy the outdoors while minimizing direct UV rays, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Waterproof sunscreens, ideally containing zinc and titanium, can also offer immediate and extensive UV protection.
Dermatologists also emphasize using hyaluronic acid-based moisturizers or serums for the décolletage, as these products effectively enhance skin hydration and improve firmness and elasticity, as highlighted in a study conducted in 2014. Additionally, antioxidants like vitamin C are crucial in shielding the skin from free radicals and reversing potential damage.
Creative Direction and Photographs by JOHN- PAUL PIETRUS. Beauty Editor: JOYCE OREÑA. Stylist: Oxana Korsun. Makeup: Adam De Cruz. Hair: Yoshitaka Miyazaki. Models: Cathrina Torres, Jimai Hoth, Pilar Cruz. Nails: Cherrie Snow.
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