Go strapless with confidence

The decolletage area is often neglected. Think about it – we use delicate facial wash on our face, but the decolletage skin, which is also very delicate, is usually washed with soap. It also does not get the same kind of skincare that the face does, and most people do not bother putting on sunscreen on this area. 

Unless you wear turtlenecks all year round, your decolletage is prone to sun damage. This is why the area can age much faster than the well-protected, properly pampered face. Also, we don’t really notice this area when we look at the mirror, compared to how often we look at our face. We usually only notice the problem when it’s bad enough to grab our attention.

Photoageing occurs as a result of a combination of both external damage and internal changes. The chest area’s photodamage is characterised by skin laxity, wrinkles, dark spots, and roughness of the skin. It can make a lot of women feel uncomfortable about wearing dresses or blouses that show the decolletage.

A good treatment for tightening the decolletage is Ulthera. In fact, Ulthera is the first and only US FDA-cleared non-invasive procedure specifically indicated to improve lines and wrinkles on the decolletage area. 

Generally, Ulthera is effective for the lifting of lax skin. It works by delivering micro-focused ultrasound to specifically target the treatment area. This energy heats the skin, causing it to tighten. It also helps stimulate the natural collagen production to give the skin a fresher, more youthful appearance. 

Two clinical studies have demonstrated that using Ulthera to treat the decolletage is safe and results in improvement of lines and wrinkles. Data from these studies supported FDA clearance of the Ulthera System for treatment of this area.

Ulthera was introduced in 2009, but the FDA clearance for the treatment of the decolletage area wasn’t granted until earlier this year. A satisfaction survey at 90 days post-treatment revealed that 81 per cent of the subjects were satisfied with their treatment and noticed improvement in their decolletage area. 

The treatment consists of hundreds of lines delivered at three discrete depths. It can be completed in a single 30-minute procedure. Results are visible after one treatment, and there is no downtime. A single treatment results in noticeable improvement in 90 days and continued improvement 6 months after treatment. Repeat treatments can be done as needed at intervals no shorter than 6 to 12 months.

In addition to Ulthera, make sure you take care of the decolletage skin on a regular basis. This means daily moisturising, putting on sunscreen, occasional exfoliation, and protection against the harsh UV rays. If you notice that problems are starting to develop, consult a dermatologist. Mild problems are always easier to treat. 

Thanisorn Thamlikitkul MD is a member of the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery and certified in dermatological laser surgery. Send you questions for her to [email protected]