When it comes to achieving flawless skin in time for the big day, many people tend to focus solely on the face. While it’s a good start, incorporating the neckline and décolletage (which are often left out of a skincare routine) is also a must, especially with off-the-shoulder and strapless gowns starring on the aisles. “Your neck and décolletage area are just as important to treat as your face and hands are. The neck and décolletage naturally have less elasticity than the skin on your face and are the areas that are the fastest to age,” says Nadia Paglia, head of education at Dermalogica Canada.
Casey Georgeson, founder of luxury skincare brand Saint Jane, also believes that because of the delicate nature of these areas, it’s important to include them in a daily skincare routine. “The neckline and décolletage are an extension of your face and deserve just as much love. These areas have delicate, thinner skin that’s more vulnerable to signs of aging like sagging, wrinkles and uneven texture,” says Georgeson. “They’re also exposed to environmental stressors like sun damage and pollution, so incorporating them into your daily routine is crucial for maintaining a youthful, radiant look from head to chest.”
Never skip SPF
To keep skin protected, Paglia says SPF is key, particularly on the neck and décolletage, which are prone to premature aging and sun damage. “They have just as much opportunity for UV exposure – especially when you are exercising or wearing clothing with a lower neckline,” says Paglia. “UV damage leads to pigmentation and loss of collagen and elastin.”
Since UV damage is one of the biggest culprits behind premature aging, Georgeson also stresses the importance of protecting the skin wherever it’s touched by the sun. “Think about it – what’s the point of having a glowing face if your neck and chest tell a different story? Consistent SPF use in these areas helps prevent wrinkles, discolouration and even more serious conditions,” says Georgeson.
Hydration is key
Paglia says it’s also important to use products with the right ingredients for the neckline and décolletage. “When cleansing your face both morning and night, you want to also cleanse those areas and treat them the same way as a preventative or corrective solution,” says Paglia, who recommends hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin tissue and vitamin C to brighten and protect the skin from negative elements in the environment. “I personally always incorporate treating my neck and décolletage and giving it the attention it deserves.”
Step by Step
In terms of a routine, Georgeson recommends starting with a gentle, hydrating cleanser, exfoliating one to two times per week, and using a peptide-packed moisturizer. She also suggests using retinol at night to stimulate collagen, smooth fine lines, and vitamin C during the day to brighten and protect the skin from free radicals. “Finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning,” says Georgeson, who can’t stress this enough. “Don’t forget this step – it’s your skin’s ultimate defence against aging.”
Editor’s picks
1. Teaology Hyaluronic Infusion
This serum contains a concentration of hyaluronic acid to instantly moisturize all layers of the epidermis, leaving skin hydrated, firmed and rejuvenated.
2. Dermalogica BioLumin C Night Serum
Formulated with antioxidants that combat free radicals and a Pro-Vitamin D Complex that supports recovery and restoration, it works to enhance the skin’s natural overnight repair process.
3. Trinny London The Elevator
Using an innovative cohesion technology, supercharged peptides work to smooth fine lines, firm the skin and restructure for a visibly lifted, defined neck and décolletage.
4. Saint Jane Luxury Body Ritual SPF 30
This hydrating mineral sunscreen is reef-safe and made with sacred lotus, passion flower and green tea, delivering essential vitamins and supporting the skin’s barrier.
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