Do you ever wonder why your face is the one that gets all the love and care? From toners to serums to face masks galore –– it seems like almost every skincare product under the sun is dedicated to transforming the skin on your face. But what about below the jawline?

Often neglected, the décolletage sees plenty of sun (and likely, sun damage), and when overexposed, is at a higher risk for being impacted by environmental stressors, like pollution and UV rays. Since the skin on this delicate area is much thinner and can even be likened to the skin on your eyelids, it requires extra support in the form of preventative and protective skincare. So, if you’re not giving this area the care it truly needs and deserves, you can expect to see the repercussions.

Raleigh-based Natural Esthetics spa owner and esthetician Amanda Grace says, “Pigmentation and loss of elasticity can occur, which can give skin a dry, loose and puckered look and can lead to a contrast in color and texture from your face. Plus, it can really be counterintuitive to the time, effort and money spent on anti-aging products and services for the face, due to the décolletage being in such close proximity to the face.” When you already have a skin regimen, extending the reach of your products below the jawline can be a quick, simple fix. But adopting additional care precautions and targeted treatments can make a world of a difference for this sometimes forgotten area.

Give the area some occasional special care

Headed to the spa? Consider a décolletage facial. While it’s important to treat the area with a focused regimen everyday, a little extra care can go a long way. More commonly practiced in Europe, décolletage facials are often offered by or can be requested to your local estheticians. Grace says, “Décolletage facials allow for lymphatic drainage and increased circulation, which are great for internal cleansing that assists with the healing and regeneration of skin cells. They also allow targeted and results-driven skincare to penetrate the delicate skin in this area.”

Never skip the SPF Don’t wait to start treating your neck and chest until you see signs of sun damage. Instead, invest in sun protection for the décolletage as a preventative measure right now. Grace says, “It’s never too late to start sun protection. It will, essentially, allow skin to be protected so it can focus on healing and renewing cell damage, rather than being used to combat damage and protect cells.”

Look for skin-transformative ingredients When scouring the beauty aisles for décolletage treatments, there are a few key ingredients to keep an eye out for. Grace says, “You should look for skincare formulated with hydroxy acids, which helps to stimulate cell turnover. You should also focus on ingredients that inhibit pigmentation, like wine and grape seed extract, which protect against free radical damage, extend cell life and decrease dark spots over time.” Lucky for us, all of these skin-transformative ingredients can be found in our SELF-ESTEEM Beauty Sleep Serum, which conveniently works its magic at night while you rest.

Dermelect Self-Esteem Beauty Sleep dual function facial + décolleté overnight serum D utilizes three types of concentrated amino-acids to target the appearance of fine lines, wrinkling and large pores resulting in a brighter, even-looking complexion.

Bring on the hydration Along with skin-exfoliating beta and alpha acids, like hydroxy, glycolic and lactic, the SELF-ESTEEM Neck Firming Lift offers a coveted boost of moisture, thanks to a nourishing blend of avocado oil and shea butter. Hyaluronic acid is another powerhouse ingredient featured in this restorative treatment that your décolletage will love. Touting benefits like retaining and regulating moisture, Grace says, “Hyaluronic acid is amazing for keeping the décolletage’s thin and delicate skin plump to help soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”

A comprehensive blend of ingredients combine in Dermelect Self-Esteem Neck Firming Lift to help hydrate and streamline the appearance of the delicate skin of the neck, lower jaw, cheeks and chin area.

How are you caring for this commonly forgotten area? Let us know in the comments below!