How to Reduce Chest Wrinkles

Keep skin on your chest protected from the sun by applying SPF 30 or higher.

Smooth, healthy skin is a sure sign of youthfulness. By taking the right steps to avoid sun damage, preventing wrinkles on the chest and other areas is possible. Skin on the chest tends to be thin and delicate. With various blouses and shirts in an average person's wardrobe, skin on the chest may be left exposed to harmful ultraviolet rays, which can lead to wrinkles and sun spots.

Things You'll Need

• SPF 30 or higher
• Crewneck or button-up tops
• Chest pillow
• Moisturizer
• Antioxidant serum

Instructions

1. Apply suncreen to your chest. Before stepping out into the harmful rays of the sun, it is imperative to apply SPF of 30 or higher. Don't be fooled: Even on days when it may appear to be gloomy outside, the sun is still hiding behind the clouds and can take its toll on your skin. The Mayo Clinic recommends applying SPF of 30 or higher. Sunscreen is available in many forms including spray-on, cream and stick. All options are suitable -- a matter of personal preference.

2. Wear sun-protective clothing when possible. You may not be able to wear such clothing every day, but opt to wear it whenever you know you'll be out in the sun for a long time. Avoid the sun during its peak hours -- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A long-sleeved black or dark-colored shirt that covers the chest will help protect your skin. Wrinkles can form due to excessive exposure over time, because the sun breaks down collagen and elastin -- the components of skin that give it a youthful, supple appearance.

3. Invest in a chest pillow or pad. If you prefer to sleep on your side, using a chest pillow can be beneficial. Side sleepers are more prone to chest wrinkles over time, because stress and weight are placed on the skin in that area. Various versions of chest pillows exist, and pads are available. They work to keep the skin of the décolletage flat during sleep.

4. Apply a moisturizer and an antioxidant serum in the morning and before bed. It is important to keep all areas of your body moisturized. When moisturizing your face, do not neglect your chest. Layering an antioxidant serum containing vitamin C underneath a moisturizer in the evening will assist the skin in fighting off free radicals that can lead to wrinkles. Antioxidant serums can encourage cell turnover and stimulate the production of collagen.

Tips & Warnings

• If the creases are very marked, they can be treated with the profractional laser or a mild peel to markedly reduce their depth.

• Very deep creases can be filled with Restylane or Juvéderm to restore the appearance of youth.

• Apply anti-wrinkle cream to your chest area each night.

• It's often a good idea to see a dermatologist before beginning any new treatments.

References

• Mayoclinic.com: Best Sunscreen: Understand suncreen options