So you’re diligent about applying the best anti-ageing skincare to your face – but have you given much thought to the skin below your chin? No? Perhaps it’s time to, because, much like the hands, the neck and décolleté is often an overlooked area that can be a big ageing giveaway.

“The skin on the neck and chest is one of the most delicate areas of the body,” explains Dr Sophie Shotter, founder of Illuminate Skin Clinics. “It has a thin dermis layer, meaning it has less collagen and elastin and fewer oil glands to keep skin supple. This makes it more prone to wrinkles, sagging and hyperpigmentation.”

Luckily there are some measures you can take to lift and smooth this area to create a smoother, more youthful-looking neckline.

© Getty Here’s how you can make your neck look more youthful, according to an expert…

Extend your skincare

The first rule of thumb is to always take whatever skincare you’re putting on your face down onto your neck and chest – cleanser, serums and especially SPF. “Applying a broad spectrum sunscreen to your neck and chest every day is the single best step you can take to keep this area of your skin looking youthful and smooth for years to come,” says Dr Sophie.

Use targeted skincare products

If the damage is already there, there are a number of skincare products designed to specifically target this particular area, such as PRAI Ageless Throat & Decolletage Cream. Containing hyaluronic acid, squalane and a smart collagen-boosting technology, customer reviews highlight a distinct improvement in the appearance of the neck in just a few weeks.

It’s also a long-time favourite of TV presenter Lisa Snowdon, who loves it so much that she’s included it inside her OK! Beauty Box. “It’s going to really help plump up the neck area – which should never be neglected,” Lisa says. “Everyone needs this in their life!”

This limited-edition kit carefully curated by Lisa includes 10 of her must-have beauty products – it’s worth over £200 in total but available to buy for just £45.

Sleep with a bra on

“Sleeping on our side and pushing our chest into the mattress causes it to fold and crease, and eventually these lines will become etched into your skin,” explains Dr Sophie. Wearing a soft, comfy, unwired bra to bed can help to reduce this.

Put down your mobile phone

© Getty Looking down at your phone or other electronic devices can be immediately ageing

You’ve probably heard of the phrase “tech neck”: a result of constantly looking down at your phone or other electronic device, forming lines in the skin on the neck plus bad posture – both which can be immediately ageing. Check your computer setup if you work at a desk, stretch regularly, and manage your screen time.

Consider professional clinic treatments

There are a number of aesthetic treatments available that can help with an ageing neck. Profhilo is an injectable hyaluronic acid that can be administered to this area and works to plump, hydrate and firm the skin at a deeper level, while anti-wrinkle injections (ie Botox) can help to reduce lines forming by relaxing the muscles. Chemical peels can also be effective on age spots and pigmentation in this area.

As with all aesthetic treatments, ensure you go to a qualified practitioner and have a consultation beforehand to ensure it’s right for you.

Reference: OK: Laura Mulley