Battling cancer is, without question, a life-altering experience — physically, mentally, and emotionally. And powerful treatments like chemotherapy can take a significant toll on the body, including changes in appearance, including to hair and skin. When this happens, there are often support and resources that hairstylists and estheticians can offer to help you feel more like yourself.

Nicole Roby, esthetician and senior spa leader at LifeSpa in Oakbrook, Ill., fully understands this experience: She experienced the effects of chemotherapy during her own battle with breast cancer.

“Hair loss was one of the most emotionally challenging parts of my chemotherapy journey,” she says. “It wasn’t just about losing my hair — it felt more like losing myself and my identity.”

Roby was diagnosed with stage 3 metastatic breast cancer in October 2021 and underwent two surgeries later that year. In early 2022, Roby began treatment that included 25 rounds of infusion chemotherapy treatment that went through June; she then underwent 30 rounds of radiation between July and September 2022. Today, she takes an oral chemo medication daily in addition to receiving quarterly infusions due to her stage three diagnosis.

“A majority of what I experienced with my hair and skin during my infusion and radiation treatments was a surprise,” Roby says. “They warn you about some things, but you can never be prepared for those changes fully. Especially as an esthetician, where my skin is my billboard, a big challenge I experienced was skin dehydration, dull and lackluster skin, and hyperpigmentation that wouldn’t budge.”

We asked Roby to share more of her experience around how chemotherapy affected her hair and skin and how she learned to best care for both during and after treatment.

Life Time | How did you feel when you learned your treatment would cause you to lose your hair? Tell us about your initial thoughts and actions.

Nicole Roby | When my oncologist confirmed in January 2022 that I would need to start chemo right away as a life-saving measure, I planned to cut my hair to a short pixie the week after my first chemo session. I felt that was the best way to not get overwhelmed with hair loss. I was told that I would begin to experience hair loss by the second treatment, and that was almost spot on.

When my hair started falling out after my initial “chemo cut,” I made the decision to shave my head, which was both heartbreaking and empowering. I chose to have one of my fellow stylists here at LifeSpa, Georgia Kolovitz, shave my head. She knew how to care for me during this sensitive process after helping her father during his cancer treatment. There is something powerful in facing the mirror bald and deciding you are still you.

I had complete hair loss by my third chemo session and remained bald until the end of my radiation treatments. What I was not prepared for was the physical pain that came with the hair loss. My scalp became extremely sensitive and dry.

LT | Tell us about the regrowth process after treatment — what was that like for you?

NR | I first began to see hair regrowth that October, after my chemo had ended. Regrowth was just as emotional as losing the hair to begin with because my hair came back in soft, fuzzy patches, like how a baby’s hair grows.

And the hair was stick straight! My first thought was, Where are my curls and will they ever come back? My focus during the regrowth period was to protect and care for my scalp so that my hair could continue to grow. Every little strand felt like a small victory. Watching my hair grow again was a reminder of what my body had been through, how resilient it truly is, and what was possible.

LT | What hair-care solutions can help someone dealing with hair regrowth after chemotherapy?

NR | Scalp care is crucial, especially right after chemo when your skin is sensitive. A healthy scalp will grant you healthy hair and how you care for it can determine your outcome during the regrowth process.

I recommend using lightweight shampoos and conditioners to not weigh the hair down; they also provide a great base for the early regrowth stages. Avoid shampoos with sulfates, which can add stress to the hair and scalp.

I massaged my scalp regularly with lightweight serums and oils like the Initialiste Scalp Concentrate and Genesis Serum Fortifiant from Kerastase, which is formulated to help weakened hair, promote growth, boost circulation, and nourish follicles. This also helps ease the tightness of the skin from how dry the scalp can be as a result of the treatments.

As your hair starts to grow back, it’s important to treat it delicately:

• Skip excessive heat styling, harsh brushing, and color services in the early stages to avoid damaging the new hair that’s coming in.
• Give the scalp lots of TLC! Red-light therapy can help stimulate growth and also decrease sensitivity.
• Use a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction and ease the, at times, painful growth process that is associated with hair loss. The hair follicles coming in are inflamed and there is cell damage from treatment. As the new hair pushes through an already sensitive scalp, it can result in a painful, tight feeling.

Understand everyone’s regrowth process is different, and that hair texture may change temporarily or permanently. My hair came back stick straight when it used to be curly. After about five months, my curls came back and flourished, and I felt more like myself.

If possible, I’d encourage finding a hairstylist who is experienced working with those who have lost hair during cancer treatment — they can offer support, resources, and suggestions specific to your unique needs.

LT | How did chemotherapy affect your skin? How did you care for it during this period?

NR | Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells in the body, which means it can also affect healthy cells that multiply quickly, including skin cells. My chemo treatment took a major toll on my skin. It became extremely dry, sensitive, and at times, inflamed. I experienced dullness, hyperpigmentation, and a general loss of that “healthy glow,” both during and after treatment. My skin didn’t have its true glow back until six months after radiation.

Hydration became my No. 1 priority. Drinking water and consistently using moisturizing products were key. I collaborated with my doctor on safe skincare products to use.

I am also oncology-certified in esthetics, so I was well versed about how and what to use on my skin. I adopted a minimal, oncology-safe skincare routine with products from Eminence and isClinical. Nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, and ceramides helped my skin feel and look better.

[My daily routine includes] a gentle cleanse twice a day with Stone Crop Gel Cleanser from Eminence in the morning and the Cleansing Complex from isClinical in the evening. [I also] add in the Pro-Heal and Hydra-Cool serums from isClinical.

I used the Zents body-care line. This became a primary hydrator for the skin on my body. I felt good about the ingredients and the Unzented option, which is dye-free and scent-free, as it was safe for my sensitive skin.

LT | What tips do you have for caring for the skin after chemotherapy?

NR | As your skin heals after chemo, it’s important to listen to your body as it will often tell you what it needs. For example, if it’s feeling dry, you might need to use products with soothing, hydrating ingredients.
Here are the top things I’d prioritize:

• Never skip SPF. As an esthetician, recommending SPF is my top priority for anyone. But after chemotherapy, I am even more diligent about sun protection. Chemo and post-care medications can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so I always wear SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days and when I’m indoors. My preference is a mineral SPF.
• Combat dryness as best as you can. Drink lots of water, consider using a humidifier, and avoid long, hot showers (lukewarm is best) as they can be drying for the skin. Apply your body moisturizer while the skin is still damp from the shower. A combination of a body oil followed by a moisturizing lotion or cream can help lock in hydration.
• Find an experienced esthetician or dermatologist who is well-versed in working with those who have gone through cancer treatment, if possible. They can offer support and resources based on your symptoms and individual skincare needs.

LT | How has going through this process helped you embrace the next phase in your recovery?

NR | This experience shifted the way I see beauty and healing. I’ve learned that recovery isn’t just physical but also emotional, mental, and deeply personal. I no longer have a strong attachment to my hair; I value health over everything.

My hair regrowth marked a turning point for me: It reminded me I was moving forward and healing. My glow also returned, and I enjoy even more the calm that comes with caring for my skin.

Also, cancer was just a part of me and doesn’t define who I am! I have always been a strong-willed person. I have a great family around me and my parents instilled in me that I can be both strong and vulnerable. Cancer doesn’t change who you are. I feel like I’ve lived a few lives, and this is just one big chapter that wasn’t so pretty. But it shows how will and determination can help you overcome the hardest challenges thrown your way.

LT | What advice would you give to someone just starting their post-chemotherapy recovery?

NR | Give yourself grace and know that your body has endured one of the worst types of traumas and it needs time to recover. Ask for help from those who’ve experienced chemo. Find local groups or take advantage of cancer center groups for community.

Don’t be afraid of self-care — you need it and deserve it. You may be uncomfortable in the beginning, but there is a long road ahead and a positive mindset will get you far.

In most cases your hair will grow back, and your skin will glow again. Embrace the now, and enjoy living in this new normal in the most positive way you can. It will keep you going!

From fine lines to deep folds, every wrinkle on our skin tells a story. And while years well-lived deserve to be celebrated, not everyone wants to see these visible signs of aging. With today’s advanced skincare practices and strategies, we have more tools than ever to help prevent and treat them effectively.

Wrinkles form as a natural part of the aging process, the result of a combination of both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Genetics and time contribute to our appearance, as do our lifestyle choices and how we take care of our skin.

One of the largest contributors to how our skin changes as we age, however, is that our skin naturally produces less collagen and elastin, two key proteins that keep the skin firm and elastic. People generally start to lose collagen and elastin in their mid-20s at a rate of one to 1.5 percent per year; this eventually leads to skin laxity and creasing.

If you’ve noticed more hair on your brush than usual, or a wider part or balding spots in the mirror, you’re not alone. Hair thinning and hair loss are common concerns affecting millions of people, men and women alike. Many licensed hairstylists and medical professionals are dedicated to gaining a deeper understanding of thinning hair and hair loss so they can better support those experiencing these concerns.

“Thinning hair can leave a person feeling like they’ve lost a part of themselves,” says Lana Abelev, a licensed hairstylist of 30 years at LifeSpa in Northbrook, Ill., who specializes in hair thinning and hair loss. “It can be embarrassing and frustrating, and often leads to a drop in confidence.”

Abelev has pursued additional education on hair loss and scalp health and applied that knowledge in working with clients — and for herself. “This topic is deeply personal to me because I’ve experienced thinning hair myself,” she says. “I’ve spent a lot of time researching and learning what causes it — and I love helping others with this issue because I know what it feels like to be dealing with it.”

Abelev and Jessica Fabie, a nurse practitioner at Life Time’s MIORA Performance + Longevity center in Minneapolis, Minn., answer some common questions about thinning hair and hair loss, and share their insights for dealing with these issues.

How do I know if my hair is thinning?

Before diving into the causes of thinning hair and hair loss, it’s important to understand the difference between these issues and normal hair shedding.

“Normal hair shedding typically looks like the loss of up to 80 to 100 hairs per day,” says Fabie. “This is a physiologic process reflecting the normal hair cycle. However, it’s usually not associated with visible thinning or changes in hair density or hairline.”

Hair shedding is problematic when you start to lose more than 100 hairs per day, leading to visible changes. “Thinning hair becomes an issue when you start to see visible reduction in hair volume, widening of the part, a receding hairline, patchy areas of hair loss, or more visible areas of the scalp,” Fabie explains. “You might also notice hair coming out in clumps, especially after washing or brushing.”

What causes hair thinning and hair loss?

There are many factors that can lead to hair thinning or hair loss. The most common causes include the genetic condition of androgenetic alopecia (more frequently known as pattern hair loss); telogen effluvium, a physiological condition that disrupts the hair growth cycle; hormonal changes; aging; scalp conditions; nutritional deficiencies; certain autoimmune diseases; endocrine disorders; and chronic systemic illness.

Androgenetic alopecia is a common, chronic form of hair loss in both men and women that is caused by a combination of genetic predisposition and the effects of androgens (testosterone), particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), on hair follicles in certain areas of the scalp.

“DHT shortens the growth phase of the hair cycle and causes hair follicles to gradually shrink, producing progressively thinner and shorter hairs over time,” says Abelev. “This can lead to visible thinning and, for men, a receding hairline and balding at the crown. For women, it typically causes diffuse thinning over the crown.”

Telogen effluvium is hair loss triggered by physiological or emotional stress like illness, surgery, childbirth, major psychological stress, rapid weight loss, or certain medications.

“Telogen effluvium is the fancy term for a premature shift of a large number of hair follicles from the anagen (growth) phase into the telogen (resting) phase,” Fabie says.

“When large numbers of hairs are out of the growing phase and in the resting phase, they tend to all fall out and shed at the same time, which can make your hair look thinner or like it’s falling out.”

Postpartum is one event that can lead to telogen effluvium, and therefore hair loss; it typically occurs three to six months after childbirth. “This phenomenon is triggered by the abrupt hormonal changes following delivery, specifically the sudden drop in estrogen, which causes a large number of hair follicles to shift from that growth phase into the resting phase, resulting in diffuse hair shedding,” Fabie explains.

Stress — whether from illness, emotional strain, or other issues — can also trigger telogen effluvium by upsetting the normal hair growth cycle. “When you’re stressed, your body releases certain hormones and chemicals like norepinephrine and cortisol that can push hair follicles out of the growing phase and into the resting phase too early,” says Fabie. “This can reduce hair cell growth and cause inflammation, all of which lead to increased hair shedding.”

Hormonal changes, particularly those related to menopause, can lead to decreased estrogen and relative androgen excess, which can affect hair follicle cycling and result in hair thinning, decreased hair density, and changes in hair texture in women. Thyroid imbalances like hypothyroid or hyperthyroid can also cause hormonal fluctuations and lead to variances in hair growth.

Aging can contribute to hair thinning through cumulative effects on the hair follicle environment, including reduced follicle size, altered hair cycle dynamics, and changes in scalp skin structure. “As we age, hair growth slows down, hair follicles shrink, and we can experience hormonal changes that lead to thinner, weaker hairs,” says Abelev.

Scalp health is critical to the health of your hair. “The condition of your scalp plays a major role in whether your hair grows thin or thick, strong or fragile. Understanding and treating scalp issues is a key part of achieving long-term hair health and volume,” Abelev says.

“Scalp health directly influences both the quality and retention of hair fibers,” says Fabie. “Disruption of the scalp barrier through increased oxidative stress and/or chronic inflammation can impair the environment necessary for optimal hair follicle function, leading to compromised hair growth and increased fragility of emerging hair shafts. For example, scalp conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff are associated with increased oxidative damage, which can cause weaker, more brittle hair that is prone to accelerated shedding and breakage.”

Nutritional deficiencies can play a role in the health of your hair too. “Deficiencies in key micronutrients associated with hair health can lead to thinning or loss,” says Fabie. “Iron, vitamin D, zinc, and B vitamins have all been linked to both androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium.

“A balanced diet rich in essential amino acids (protein), vitamins, and minerals is important to keep your hair healthy,” Fabie adds. “A lot of people don’t get enough protein to support healthy hair growth. Additionally, routine laboratory evaluation for iron status (including ferritin), vitamin D, zinc, and B12 can be helpful for patients with unexplained hair loss, along with tailored supplementation to correct documented deficiencies.”

Thyroid dysfunction is indicated in hair thinning and loss, too. While hypo- or hyperthyroid can cause hormonal fluctuations that contribute to hair loss, these dysfunctions can go deeper. “When thyroid levels are off — too high or too low — it causes a disruption to the growth cycle” Fabie says. “This can cause hair to stop growing too soon and shift into the shedding phase, leading to more hair loss. This is more prominent in hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).”

Acute febrile illnesses, including severe infections like COVID-19, have been known to cause hair loss in some cases due to the stress they put on both the body and mind. “The [COVID-19] infection causes high fever, low oxygen levels, and inflammation, which can push hair follicles out of the growth phase and into the resting phase too early,” says Fabie. “This can lead to noticeable hair shedding about one to three months after getting sick.”

Certain medications can also affect hair growth as they may disrupt the growth cycle. “Blood pressure medications and GLP-1 medications are known for leading to hair thinning or hair loss,” says Abelev. “I’ve seen many clients lately who, after speaking with their medical providers, have determined their hair loss is stemming from using a GLP-1 medication.”

Additionally, strong medications and treatments — especially chemotherapy — can quickly eliminate fast-growing cells, including hair cells. Cancer cells are the target, but healthy hair cells can also suffer; this is what leads to hair loss in this case.

Who can help with thinning hair or hair loss issues?

In determining the cause of hair thinning, it can be helpful to consult a range of professionals, including a haircare specialist and your medical provider. Many hairstylists have dedicated time to studying hair loss to better support and guide their clients, while a medical doctor can help determine if any underlying health issues are affecting your hair.

“If I can help someone understand why their hair is thinning and show them what they can do to achieve thicker, fuller hair, I know I’m doing more than just styling — I’m helping them feel more like themselves again,” says Abelev. “Many people often feel uncomfortable talking about their hair loss, but it is their hairdresser who is usually the first to hear about the issue.

“For someone expressing hair loss concerns, I would feel their strands to better understand the hair and decipher the type of hair loss. Are the strands thinner, or are there less stands? Is the scalp healthy? I would also ask about prescription medications, lifestyle, diet, and current stresses to determine if this may be a temporary condition or more permanent. In some cases, we can find a cause quickly and I can offer solutions. If it appears to be connected to a medication or condition, I will advise them to speak with their healthcare provider. From there, we can consider possible cosmetic solutions to help deliver the look of fuller hair.”

Fabie would conduct a similar analysis, as well bloodwork to look for certain nutrient deficiencies. This is also helpful when addressing those who want to try one of the many hair growth supplements they are seeing on social media.

“Some of these drugs and supplements can be beneficial, but there are way too many companies that rely on strong marketing and don’t ultimately offer results, so it is important to do your homework and talk to your medical provider before starting anything,” says Fabie. “Supplements may promote hair growth in individuals with documented deficiencies or specific types of hair loss, but routine supplementation is not universally recommended.

“If you’d like to try a supplement, first talk to your healthcare provider to pinpoint your nutrient deficiencies and to discuss the evidence-based micronutrients — such as iron, vitamin D, zinc, and certain amino acids — that can potentially help hair growth,” she advises.

“For patients without deficiencies,” Fabie continues, “the benefit of supplementation isn’t as clear and therefore relying on a pill to fix the problem may not work in one’s favor.”

↑ Back to Top

4 Styling Tips and Tricks for Thinning Hair

It takes time to address the causes of hair thinning, yet there are several hairstyling strategies that can help you feel more confident in the meantime.

Consider hair extensions. “Hair extensions can be a great solution for women and men experiencing thinning hair and wanting to create a fuller, more voluminous look,” says Abelev. “For example, two- or three-inch extensions can be added to hair to give the look of additional fullness near the scalp. “The right application for you depends on several factors, including your hair type and goals, and what you can realistically maintain at home.”

Abelev stresses the importance of working with a haircare expert who understands the why behind your decision to get hair extensions and the goal you’re seeking to achieve. “Not everyone is a good candidate for extensions when hair thinning is involved,” she explains. “The most important factor is scalp health — you need a healthy scalp that can support the added weight and tension of extensions. [Extensions] cannot be applied to hair that is actively shedding, as this can lead to tension alopecia, a condition that causes further hair loss.”

Abelev recommends booking a consultation with a licensed hairdresser who has at least five years of experience — so they have longer exposure in the industry to understand more types of hair loss and how to help — and is certified by a reputable extension brand. She also suggests doing your research: “Read reviews, check their professional Instagram or portfolio, and don’t be afraid to ask about their certifications.”

Opt for shorter hairstyle. For those who are not good candidates for hair extensions or are looking for a different option to create the illusion of thicker strands, Abelev is an advocate for shorter styles like a bob or a lob (long bob).

“When the hair is shorter, it can appear more voluminous and bouncier,” she says. “Styles that go past the shoulders often look thinner because the length is weighted and can flatten the hair.”

Use volumizing hair products. Thin hair can benefit from volumizing hair products to build lift and expansion for both men and women. “I like to use the Oribe Maximista Root Lifter, which is great for styling the hair while boosting lift from the scalp,” says Abelev. “I also like Densifique from Kérastase as it coats the hair and helps plump up individual strands and add fullness. Both products help give the hair more body and hold, so your voluminous style lasts longer.

“A volumizing shampoo and conditioner can also help you achieve a thicker, more lifted look,” she adds. “I love the Densifique line from Kérastase, and it’s important to use both the shampoo and conditioner together for the best results. Be sure to apply the conditioner only to the mid-lengths and ends — not the roots or scalp — to avoid weighing the hair down.”

Abelev points out that using conditioner is especially important when working with volumizing shampoos, because these formulas are designed to have a drying effect to help create that lifted, fuller look. “Using the conditioner helps to soften the hair shaft while it plumps up the strands,” she explains.

Style in waves or curls. Abelev suggests styling thin hair in beach waves, curls, or any textured look. “Straight hair tends to highlight thinning areas, while a textured style helps to plump up the hair making it appear fuller,” she says.

“If you are using hot tools to create waves or curls, be sure to apply a thermal protector product prior to using the hot tool so your strands are protected from the heat and to prevent further damage.”

↑ Back to Top

Our faces often gets the bulk of our attention when it comes to skincare — they are, after all, front and center for all to see. But the skin on our neck and chest deserves some love too: According to experts, it’s equally vulnerable to sun exposure and other environmental stressors, as well as visible signs of aging.

It can also benefit from similar routine steps like cleansing, moisturizing, and applying SPF, which help to maintain smoother texture, more even tone, and a more youthful appearance overall.

On the flip side, overlooking the skin on our neck and chest can have several lasting effects. “Damaging environmental elements, such as pollution and sun exposure, can lead to a loss of skin elasticity, sunspots, dullness, uneven skin tone, broken capillaries, and more visible wrinkles,” says Kami Leitza, advanced-practice esthetician at LifeSpa in Edina, Minn.

Some unexpected daily habits can also have undesirable effects on the skin of these upper-body areas. “Sleeping on your side for prolonged periods of time, for example, can negatively affect the chest,” Leitza explains. “Side sleepers have a higher chance of causing vertical chest wrinkles because if they’re in this position every night, gravity can eventually bring about permanent lines.”

Repeatedly looking down at your phone — also known as “tech neck” — is another common cause of wrinkles or lines in the skin, Leitza notes. “While tech neck is commonly known for causing muscle strain and other ailments, another result is wrinkles and lines from the motion of always having the neck bent forward.”

All this in mind, Leitza emphasizes three strategies that are especially important when it comes to taking care of the skin on your chest and neck. She shares a daily skincare routine for those areas, too.

3 Tips for Neck and Chest Skincare

1. Make SPF a nonnegotiable part of your routine.

Leitza’s No. 1 tip is to apply SPF daily on all exposed skin — rain or shine. “UV rays can still cause skin damage when shining through car and building windows,” she explains. “Skipping sun protection can speed up the breakdown of collagen and elastin, which can cause sagging, leathery-appearing skin and deeper lines. Sun damage can also cause hyperpigmentation or dark spots on the skin. Most importantly, protecting your skin from the sun can also help prevent skin cancer.”

When applying daily SPF, it’s common for people to focus on their face instead of continuing down to the neck and chest. “Don’t stop sunscreen application at the jaw line,” Leitza advises. “Be sure to extend it down to your neck and chest. And if you’re in the sun for an extended period, reapply sunscreen every 45 minutes.” (Learn more: “What’s the Difference Between Mineral and Chemical Sunscreens?”)

2. Look for skincare products that gently exfoliate and hydrate.

The skin on the neck and chest benefits from many of the same ingredients used in facial skincare, such as ceramides, gentle exfoliants, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C. When the chest and neck are ignored in daily skincare regimens, the skin can appear duller and have deeper wrinkles and lines than the skin of the face.

When you include the neck and chest in a gentle cleanse followed by other skincare steps, including weekly exfoliation and daily moisturizing, the skin from face to chest can have a more uniformed glow.

Leitza recommends reaching for products with a gentle chemical exfoliant like Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). These water-soluble acids work on the skin’s surface to sweep away dead skin cells, revealing smoother skin with a more even tone and texture. Exfoliating also preps the skin to better absorb serums and moisturizers.

Hydration is also crucial for healthy skin, and products like serums and moisturizers can help lock in moisture. “Look for serums with hyaluronic acid, which can be extra hydrating — it acts as a humectant and helps to bind moisture to the skin,” says Leitza. “I also recommend choosing a moisturizer with ceramides, as they work with the hyaluronic acid from the serum to protect the skin barrier. If your skin barrier is vulnerable or compromised, you may notice redness, irritation, or a feeling of tightness, itchiness, or discomfort — and these ingredients can help.”

Leitza also suggests incorporating a vitamin C serum if you’re concerned about hyperpigmentation or sun damage. “Vitamin C can help prevent past sun damage or dark spots from coming up to the surface by slowing down skin’s melanin production.”

3. Consider in-spa treatments if you’re seeing signs of skin damage.

If you already have an established skincare routine for your neck and chest but still see signs of damage such as discoloration or dehydration, in-spa treatments can take your results to the next level.

“I’ve found that consistent use of quality skincare products at home and committing to a series of spa treatments catered to your skin’s needs can be a game changer,” says Leitza. “It can help address existing concerns while also preventing further damage,” Leitza says.

Two of her favorite treatments are the Hydrafacial and SkinPen. “A Hydrafacial is a medical grade facial that helps deeply cleanse and hydrate the face and can be just as beneficial for the neck and chest,” Leitza explains. “A SkinPen service helps stimulate collagen production using 14 stainless steel microneedles to create controlled micro-injuries, which trigger the body’s natural healing process. This can improve skin texture, smooth acne scarring, boost firmness, trigger collagen production, and help to reduce the effects of aging on the neck and chest.” (Learn more: “What Is Microneedling?”)

When booking an appointment with your esthetician, let them know you’d like to include your neck and chest in the service. “Work with your esthetician to set up a timeline or cadence for regular services that works best for your skin goals and budget,” she says.

A Daily Skincare Routine for the Neck and Chest

Neck and chest skincare doesn’t have to be complicated, according to Leitza. In fact, she uses the same skincare routine on her face for her neck and chest. Here, she provides the daily step-by-step routines she often recommends to her clients.

Morning and Evening

Cleanse

Gently cleanse your neck and chest at the same time you’re cleansing your face using your preferred facial cleanser. Cleansing with a facial cleanser (vs. body wash in the shower) helps prep the skin on the neck and chest for additional serums and moisturizers.

Leitza’s recommended products: Cleansing Complex by iS Clinical or Stonecrop Cleansing Oil from Eminence Organic Skin Care

Exfoliate

Leitza recommends exfoliating the skin one to two times a week, morning or night, with a cleanser with alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHA and BHA) for gentle exfoliation in place of your regular cleanser. AHAs and BHAs work on the top layers of skin to promote skin renewal. They remove dead skin cells and improve overall texture and tone. Exfoliants also prep the skin to receive the effective ingredients in serums and moisturizers.

Leitza’s recommended products: The BHA/AHA Exfoliating Cleanser by Skin Medica or Cleansing Complex Polish by iS Clinical

Apply Treatment Serum

Choose a serum(s) for your desired skin outcomes. For the neck and chest, Leitza prefers serums for firming and brightening during the day and hydration at night. Apply your serum(s) just after cleansing and before moisturizing.

Leitza’s recommended products for morning: TNS Advanced Serum for firming by Skin Medica or Bamboo Firming Fluid from Eminence Organic Skin Care

Leitza’s recommended products for evening: HA5 Hydra Collagen by Skin Medica or Hydracool Serum by iS Clinical

Moisturize

Moisturizing is essential for softening the skin and locking in the benefits of your serum. It helps to maintain hydration and enhances the overall smoothness and suppleness of the skin.

Ideally, Leitza suggests using a moisturizer with firming benefits in the morning, and one more focused on hydration while you sleep. “Your skin soaks in all those moisturizing benefits while it is at rest,” she explains.

Leitza’s recommended products for morning: Reparative Moisture Emulsion by iS Clinical or HA5 Hydra Collagen by Skin Medica (if you prefer a less dewy finish)

Leitza’s recommended products for evening: Youth Intensive Creme or Reparative Moisture Emulsion, both by iS Clinical

Morning-Only Additions

Apply Vitamin C Serum

Leitza advises applying this during the serum step. Vitamin C can help brighten dark spots and combat the appearance of dull skin on the neck and chest.

Leitza’s recommended products: Super Serum Advance by iS Clinical or Rosehip Triple C+E Firming Oil by Eminence Organic Skincare

Apply SPF

You’ll want this to be the last step in your skincare routine, following the application of your moisturizer and before makeup. UV rays can damage to the skin, causing wrinkles, discoloration, and in some cases, cancer. SPF protects the skin while you’re outside or from sunlight through a window.

Leitza’s recommended products: Extreme Protect 30 by iS Clinical or Intellishade Original Tinted SPF 45 by Revision Skincare.

With dozens of options lining the shelves of skincare aisles, picking a sunscreen can be challenging — especially if you’re someone who takes a deeper look at the ingredients and how they affect your skin and overall health. Fundamentally, there are two different types of sunscreens: mineral and chemical.

“Understanding the differences can help you choose the best option for your needs and health,” says Sophie Hertz, an esthetician at LifeSpa in Colorado Springs, Colo. “Your skin is the largest and most absorbent organ, and what you put on it can soak into your bloodstream. It’s important to be mindful about protection from the sun and protection from harmful chemicals.

“Both mineral and chemical sunscreens offer protection from harmful UV rays,” Hertz continues, “yet they work in very different ways.”

Why Do I Need Sunscreen?

Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from UVA and UVB rays. “Ultraviolet light contains radiation that changes the DNA inside skin cells,” according to the Mayo Clinic. This can lead to skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

UVA and UVB rays can also accelerate signs of aging by contributing to wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and the breakdown of collagen in the skin.

As a general guideline, Hertz recommends applying SPF (sun protection factor) every two hours when you’re exposed to direct sunlight. “And if you’re sweating or swimming, reapply even more frequently,” she adds. “SPF can lose its efficacy over time. Every two hours is the guideline to ensure you’re always protected. If you’re not in direct sunlight or indoors for most of the day, reapplication isn’t necessary. However, it’s wise to add another layer of sunscreen if you’re heading outside during daylight.”

Mineral Sunscreen

If you’ve ever seen a lifeguard wearing a thick white strip of cream over their nose, that’s likely mineral sunscreen, which is also known as physical sunscreen. These formulas block both UVA and UVB rays, meaning they provide broad-spectrum protection.

“Mineral sunscreens contain active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which create a physical barrier on the skin,” Hertz explains. “These blockers sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays away from it.”

In 2021, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviewed 16 ingredients and out of them, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide were the only ones “generally recognized as safe and effective” (or GRASE) by experts.

Zinc oxide as an ingredient protects your skin by sitting on the surface and reflecting UV rays away from the body while also working to regenerate the skin and reduce inflammation. It’s also less likely to cause breakouts or irritation, making it suitable for all skin types. Titanium dioxide works in a similar way, sitting on the skin surface to reflect UV rays instead of absorbing in.

Another benefit of mineral sunscreens is that they are effective immediately upon application. “It’s great to be able to apply and go out in the sun right away without worrying about harmful rays,” Hertz adds. “In contrast, chemical sunscreens typically take about 20 to 30 minutes to start working as the ingredients need to absorb into the skin to become effective.”

One potential drawback to mineral sunscreen is that they can cause a white cast or discoloration because the ingredients sit on top of the skin. “The white cast is caused by the non-nano (larger) particles of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are naturally white in color, opaque, and don’t blend easily into the skin.”

To help minimize this, be sure to thoroughly blend the formula onto your skin. You can also opt for a mineral sunscreen formulated in a skin-tinted shade, which helps it blend better with your skin tone.

“One of my favorite tinted mineral sunscreens that doesn’t cause a white cast is Sun Defense Minerals by Éminence,” says Hertz. “It’s a powder mineral sunscreen available in six shades. It offers protection against UVA, UVB, and blue light, and is easy to reapply for touch-ups because it dispenses directly from a brush. I also like EltaMD UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Green Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 50 for everyday use.”

Because it sits on top of your skin, mineral sunscreen may also not adhere as well if you frequently touch or rub your skin, so do your best to avoid this.

“Many gravitate toward mineral sunscreens for their skin-friendly properties,” says Hertz. “The ingredients are less likely to irritate sensitive skin and have fewer health concerns associated with them. This can bring peace of mind when choosing a product that you’re ideally applying every single day.”

Chemical Sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens contain organic (carbon-based) compounds that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin, according to Hertz. “These sunscreens typically feel lighter on the skin and are easier to spread and rub in, yet they come with more risks than the mineral variety.”

Chemical sunscreens often rely on a combination of ingredients to provide broad-spectrum protection. Octinoxate, octocrylene, and homosalate help block UVB rays, while ingredients like avobenzone, Mexoryl SX, and Tinosorb are commonly used to block UVA rays. Oxybenzone is an ingredient that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

Because they require multiple ingredients, chemical sunscreens do not always provide reliable broad-spectrum protection. “To ensure you’re protected from both UVA and UVB rays, look for products labeled ‘broad-spectrum,’” Hertz advises.

In the same 2021 FDA review mentioned earlier, octinoxate, octocrylene, homosalate, and avobenzone were deemed “not GRASE due to insufficient data.” Studies published by the FDA report that these ingredients are all systemically absorbed into the body after use and could be detected on the skin and in the blood weeks after they had last been used.

“This may raise potential concerns like hormonal imbalances due to certain ingredients entering the system,” says Hertz. “Additionally, chemical sunscreen is generally not recommended for infants or women who are pregnant or nursing. It’s essential to weigh these risks.” (Learn more: “How Do I Protect Myself From Too Much Sun Exposure and Avoid Toxic Sunscreens?”)

Chemical sunscreen ingredients can also have negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems, which has led to bans on certain ingredients — especially oxybenzone — in several places, including Hawaii, Key West, Fla., the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Aruba.

If you’re leaning toward using a chemical sunscreen, Hertz prefers a hybrid version that includes both mineral and chemical ingredients. She recommends iS Clinical Extreme Protect SPF 40 or iS Clinical Extreme Protect SPF 40 PerfecTint.

5 Tips for Choosing a Sunscreen

1. Consider your skin type and sensitivities: “If your skin is prone to break outs or irritations, I recommend sticking with a mineral sunscreen,” Hertz advises. “And if you have combination, dry, or oily skin, many sunscreens have additional ingredients that work best with your skin type. For example, the Eminence Organics Radiant Protection SPF 30 Fluid with Bakuchiol + Niacinamide is a mineral formula with moisturizing ingredients to combat dry skin.”

2. Opt for 30 SPF or higher: “Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 for daily protection,” says Hertz. “SPF 30 blocks approximately 97 percent of UVB rays. SPF 50 blocks about 98 percent of UVB rays. It’s important to understand that no sunscreen can block 100 percent of UV rays, so I recommend using other sun protection methods like hats, sunglasses and other protective clothing as well.”

3. Check the ingredients: When choosing a mineral sunscreen, look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide on the ingredients list.

4. Choose a water-resistant formula if needed: “If you’re swimming or sweating, a water-resistant sunscreen can be beneficial,” says Hertz. “It’s important to note, however, that most sunscreens use binding agents for water resistance and many contain chemical ingredients. In this case, consider a hybrid product that combines mineral and chemical filters, as they can offer effective protection while being gentler on sensitive skin. Mineral ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide reflect UV rays, while chemical components help maintain effectiveness when wet. Keep in mind that no sunscreen is completely waterproof; reapply after swimming or sweating regardless of the type.”

5. Use the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) database as a resource: You can search for sunscreen products that meet the EWG’s standards for health, transparency, and efficacy.

“The most important thing is to wear sunscreen daily and reapply often,” Hertz concludes. “It’s your best defense against sun damage, premature aging, and skin cancer. Once you’ve applied your sunscreen, you’re ready to have some good fun in the sun.” (Learn more: “Which Sunscreen Is Right for You?”)