Can anyone recommend how to manage a sun-sensitive decolletage?

[EnterStageLeft]

Can't really cover up too much as am large-chested so most of my clothes are fairly low cut.

I first noticed my chest area was sensitive to the sun in my mid-teen, about 20 years ago ( ). It gets hot, itchy, blotchy and more and more sensitive.

I've tried using sun cream every day but that just makes it really itchy as does any kind of moisturiser after sun exposure.

Apart from the fact I don't want that area to get older and wrinkly before the rest it's actually quite uncomfortable.

Would a complete sun block for sensitive skin help? Or does anyone have any other helpful suggestions?

Ruby no I don't but it's a good thought thanks.

What about moisteriser with an SPF? Much lighter than traditional sun creams and for day to day use, should be okay? I have foundation with SPF which works a treat for my face as I have a similar problem that my face can burn easily.

Alternatively, cultivate a style that requires you to wear a large sun hat at all times while drifting around looking gorgeous and mysterious!

"gorgeous and mysterious" definitely sounds good

I have to go out now (does it work? ) , thanks Bling and ruby, but if any one has any other suggestions I'll be checking back later.

In South Africa, we have this stuff called SP20 (it's a brand name). basically, it's a light oil that you put on a few hours before you go into the sun and it's lightly absorbed into your skin. It works realy well. Might be worth looking for something like that? I'd ask at a good pharmacy or any of the cosmetics counters if they have anything similar.

You could try Clinique City Block, it has a high SPF in it.

I have this problem too. Regular sunblock doesn't work for me either, but I find that using the stuff intended for your face does - in a really high factor! - I need it miles higher on my chest than anywhere else (and it still seems to tan quickly too). Moisturiser with SPF also good but needs to be at least factor 30 for me. Downside is, this works out more expensive.

I've also found a good way to cover it up - not with my top (ugh, high necks in summer) but with a square cotton scarf or bandana, folded into a triangle, and tied around the back of my neck, a bit like a bib, with the pointy bit going down my front. I like to think that this looks more safari than I'm-about-to-dribble-food-down myself, although I guess that's up for debate...

I used to be V large chested and wore vests under everything (mastectomy). You can get some high necked vests to wear under v necks.

I am also sun sensitive and have been using Loreal Solar Expertise factor 50 Matt fluid. It is for hands face and chests. It doesnt leave you shiney and it actually very effective.

Thanks for all the suggestions - I will look into them all carefully. I'm determined to get on top of the problem this year. A couple of decent days weather and already I'm feeling over-exposed and itchy.

This drives me mad too - but sometimes I find it is not neccessarily the sun which can aggravate it but heat in general. Keeping it covered in the sun still results in red sore little bumps - looks like a nettle rash. Have tried taking antihistamines etc. Has anyone seen a doctor about this as it is miserable!

Ok, I've bought some soleil Anti-reaction SPF 50+ for intolerant skin

I used it today and it hasn't irritated my skin just through use. I also had lunch in the sun and don't seem to have gone all red like usual and it feels fine, not itchy.

I plan to just make it part of my routine to apply it every morning after my shower. So fingers crossed.