While we know the importance of looking after the skin on our face, the décolletage is an area often neglected. It should really be treated as an extension of the face; for example, extending cleansing to the neck and décolletage and applying sunscreen to this area in order to prevent premature environmental ageing. But if it's simply too late, the good news is there are now a variety of treatments available in this ever-expanding skincare category. To prepare for party and wedding season where it's time to bare all, BD has collated a list of treatments to try below the chin - whether wrinkles or pigmentation is the concern.
Image: Dr Catherine Stone having the Ceullar Hydrate Plus treatment at The Face Place
Cellular Hydrate Plus, The Face Place
Developed specially with the neck and chest area in mind, Cellular Hydrate Plus targets ageing skin to reverse years of damage. A combination of Cellular Matrix (PRP) and botox relaxes wrinkles, tightens lax skin and boosts the skin’s texture, leaving smooth, hydrated and glowing skin behind. The number of treatments required will depend on the severity and condition of the area.
Find out more about Cellular Hydrate Plus
Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment, Caci
Not just reserved for the facial skin, this advanced laser treatment treats wrinkles, skin tone and texture, and pigmentation in the décolletage area. The Fractional CO2 laser sends pulses of light to the deepest layers of skin, purposely damaging the cells below and triggering the skin’s natural healing process. As a result, cells in the area grow back stronger and firmer, and skin becomes smoother and more even. This treatment is also recommended if the décolletage area requires skin tightening.
Find out more about Fractional CO2 Laser
VPL Photo Rejuvenation Treatment, Caci
But if pigmentation and sun damage is the most pressing concern, Caci recommends Photo Rejuvenation. This laser treatment reduces pigmentation including age and sun spots, while reducing redness. As a bonus, it stimulates collagen production and improves skin texture at the same time. Once the skin’s pigment has been targeted with VPL, it comes to the surface of the skin and flakes away.
Find out more about VPL Photo Rejuvenation
Photo Finish, Clinic 42
A great option for those who have cared for their face but neglected the décolletage area, this treatment can help match the skin. Said to have a ‘Photoshop effect’, Photo Finish uses a combination of botulinum toxin and hyaluronic acid to improve fine lines and skin texture while promoting healthy, plump and luminous skin.
Find out more about Photo Finish
Dermapen, Clinic 42
Taking collagen induction therapy to the next level, this micro-needling treatment stimulates collagen formation, reduces pigmentation and scarring, softens fine lines and restores elasticity. Triggering the skin’s self-repair function, skin needling creates micro “injuries” in the skin to promote collagen production. Resulting in a smoother, firmer and younger looking décolletage, Dermapen provides results with less damage, pain and recovery time.
PhotoDynamic Therapy, Skin Institute
Though traditionally used to treat any pre-cancerous or abnormal cells on the skin, PhotoDynamic Therapy (PDT) can also be used on the décolletage for aesthetic purposes to give a rejuvenation effect. First, Skin Institute will do a microdermabrasion treatment on the area before applying 20% aminolevulinic acid. One hour later, the acid is activated using LED red light. After one week, skin will look renewed – but Skin Institute senior appearance medicine nurse, Suzy Aitken recommends two treatments one month apart for best results.
Find out more about PhotoDynamic Therapy
But it's not just in-clinic treatments that combat sun damage, wrinkling and sagging; the topical variety targets these concerns too – here are some of the best on offer.
Murad Rejuvenation Lift for Neck and Décolletage
This cream rapidly firms, tightens and hydrates - diminishing sagging, crepey skin and wrinkles associated with the effects of hormonal ageing on the neck and décolletage. Liquorice root extract also helps to brighten uneven skin tone and reduce the appearance of age and sun spots.
Download Murad Rejuvenation Lift for Neck and Décolletage
DMK Elevate
Harnessing the power of thermogenesis to revitalise delicate skin tissue and to firm up sagging skin, this neck and décolletage crème is filled with amino acids which support elastine production and collagen synthesis, leaving the skin feeling supple and full.
Save Our Skin By Innoxa DecoLift
Visibly smoothing neck folds and restoring youthful décolletage, this dermatologically approved product uses active ingredient Majestem™ for visible results. With high level antioxidants, cells are repaired, skin bounces back and signs of ageing are reduced.
Download Save Our Skin By Innoxa DecoLift
Wrinkles Schminkles Chest Smoothing Kit
Like Botox in a sheet mask, this reusable silicone chest pad helps smooth out chest and décolletage wrinkles. The non-invasive clear pad is worn while you sleep to prevent creasing - wearing one can bring blood flow to the surface, stimulating collagen.
Download Wrinkles Schminkles Chest Smoothing Kit
La Prairie Anti-Aging Rapid Response Booster
This facial serum can be applied to the décolletage area after cleansing to plump, fill and smooth skin and fight the formation of wrinkles. With advanced anti-wrinkle technology, it delivers peptides to the cells responsible for the production of collagen and elastin, reducing the depth and length of wrinkles in two weeks.
