1. Switch to a creamier cleanser to prevent further dehydration. Try L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Cleansing Milk, $13.95, lorealparis.com.au.

2. Use a gentle exfoliantonce or twice a week to help active ingredients to penetrate more deeply.

3. If skin is really dry,a moisturising mask once a week will further ramp up long-lasting hydration. Smooth on L’Occitane Shea Cotton Ultra Comforting Mask, $39.95, loccitane.com.au.

4. Wear sunscreen at all times- even when you are just out and about doing the weekly shopping. Clouds do nothing to filter skin-damaging UVA rays. Australian researchers have found that daily sunscreen use not only provides topical protection, it stimulates the skin’s repair mechanisms to work better, too. Clinique Sun Face Cream SPF30+ with Solar Smart Technology, $36, not only protects the skin against damage, it adds a barrier repair to help minimise the signs of ageing.

5. Step up to a more hydrating moisturiser, day and night. But stay away from too-thick creams which tend to sit on the top layer of the skin. Top choices include: A’kin Rose de Mai Anti-Oxidant Day Creme, $39.95, purist.com, with a time-release formula that releases moisture onto the skin for 12 hours; Avon Anew Genics Treatment Cream with YouthGen technology, $59.99, or L’Oreal Paris Age Perfect Hydrating Skin Re-Support Day Cream, $31.95, firms the skin, too.

6. For a bib and braces skincare strategy, use Lancôme Visionnaire Advanced Skin Corrector, from $115, department stores, under your moisturiser night and day. One of the best over-the-counter products to repair sun damage, its hero ingredient – LR 2412 – is as effective as retinol at reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. And there’s no irritating side effects, either.

7. Summer is also harsh on hands and many women “forget” to put sunscreen on the backs of their hands. Use a hand cream every time you put your hands in water and make it an anti-ageing one such as Nivea Hand Age Control Creme Q10 Plus with sunscreen filters and antioxidants.

8. Antioxidants are the first line of defence against sun damage so try to use creams and serums that offer a cocktail of antioxidants. Ingredient names to look for on labels are: Vitamin C and E, green tea, rooibos, grapeseed extract, co-enzyme Q10 and coffeeberry.

9. Your eyes are one of the first areas of the face to show sun damage because the skin is thin and prone to wrinkling. Don’t panic, though. Crow’s feet often look worse during summer because the wrinkles are often paler than the surrounding, lightly tanned skin and look more prominent. To rehydrate and protect the eye area use damage-correcting eye creams such as Christian Dior Capture R60/80 XP Wrinkle Restoring Eye Creme, $110, department stores, which targets each wrinkle with stem cell technology. Burt’s Bees Naturally Ageless Line Smooth Eye Cream, $44.95, burtsbees.com, is also formulated to repair and restore over-40s eyes.

Your say: How do you keep sun damage to a minimum? How religious are you with sunscreen application? Share with us below. 

If you’re not liking what you see, it might be time to start formulating a skin revival plan and we have real-life success stories to give you some inspiration:

Danielle has the fair skin of her Celtic ancestry, prone to freckles, hyperpigmentation and other forms of photo-ageing. She had Fraxel re:store Dual laser rejuvenation and says, even a year after treatment, she looks at least five years youn ger than she did before.  Click here for her story.

Sue jumped on the acid (as in AHA and BHA) bandwagon when it was The Next Big Thing for skin rejuvenation in the 90s. Initially thrilled with results she began to suffer signs of accelerated ageing of her skin and problems with breakouts. She now advocates “rebuilding” rather than “stripping” the skin and says her own is proof positive. Click here for her story.

Chris was devastated by the dark pigmentation on her fair skin – aggravated by an inexperienced laser operator’s earlier attempt to reverse it – and was too self conscious to be seen without thick makeup. After an 8-week series of light therapy treatments, peels and antioxidant-rich cosmeceutical salon and home care products, her pigmentation has all but disappeared and her confidence has soared.  Click here for her story.

Kimberley has undergone the new “nocedure” Jet Peel, which claims to have the benefits of Botox and fillers without the needles. She says in the wake of the treatment her skin was plumper, more hydrated and luminous. Click here for her story.

“There are no rules,” Liz Tagla, salon manager of Bauhuas Hair in Sydney. “If you’re confident enough to wear a style then go for it. In today’s society, it is so difficult to guess how old someone is. It’s up to each individual but for some going against the grain and defying the `rules’ is what makes them younger.

“Today’s woman really looks after herself, inside and out. She eats a healthy diet, exercises, has a career and does what she can to take care of her appearance.

“No matter what age you are, the length that your hair `should’ be is quite an individual decision. You need to take into consideration your face shape, your body shape, your lifestyle, maintenance and so forth.

“It comes down to confidence and being comfortable with yourself and who you are – don’t try to be someone else.”

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But whatever length you opt for, Dario Cotroneo of DARIO salon in Sydney, urges mature-age women not to play it straight. “One very important tip for over-40s is to try to avoid straight hair. It draws attention to your face and emphasises any lines you may have, whereas waves and curls draw attention away from your face and therefore minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”

LONG STORY
“If you feel longer hair suits you, then, whatever the length, you need to have a good cut regularly so that your hair has a style and is not just ‘long hair’,” says Liz. “The older you get, the more important this point becomes.

“Your hair needs to look healthy and well maintained and the longer the length, the more essential styling, colouring and density becomes. Keep your hair in good condition by having regular trims (this will also maintain your style) and treatments.”

SHORT STORY
“I would generally recommend short hair for women who are outgoing with big personalities and who are comfortable in their own skin,” says Dario. “The older she gets the more volume is required. To give a modern finish use Alterna’s Caviar Molding Crème, $37.95, 1300 437 436, to separate the style so it looks sharp and individual.”

Says Liz: “Short hair really has to suit your face shape and the style becomes extremely important – shorter hair draws attention to your face and your body at the same time. It can emphasise certain features and detract from others and because of this it can completely change your look.

“You need to find a stylist who is experienced at analysing features correctly while taking into consideration your lifestyle. A good cut `technically’ is crucial. It needs to be said though that you can’t hide behind your hair and therefore the shorter you go the more you need to be confident about your body and about who you are.

“Some women find it liberating to go short after having longer hair all through their teens and 20s. There is a misconception however that short hair is easier. In order for your style to be short and low maintenance, it needs to be very short, cut with precision and suitable to your hair type, growth patterns and so on.

“I’d recommend going shorter in stages – you can always cut more off but unless you’re going to opt for hair extensions, you can’t as easily add length on!”

THINNING AND HAIR LOSS
“A thick head of hair is better than Botox!” says Liz. “If your hair is fine or it has thinned out over the years, then you should definitely consider adding bulk and volume with hair extensions. I’d suggest only considering human hair extensions made from the highest quality hair. Permanent options are best as they fit in with your lifestyle and your everyday look. [At Bauhuas] we use and recommend only the best hair extensions, Great Lengths, as they have a large range of colours and lengths which enable us to create results that are completely natural.”

COLOUR YOUR WORLD
Says Dario: “Women must all have their hair professionally coloured. When we colour our client’s hair, the goal is to rebalance the face. Colour placement is based on face shape suitability, bringing life to their face and complexion. In my salon we use Lakme Colour because it gives us lots of flexibility when creating individual colour looks for our clients.  In general, my philosophy in regards to colour is lighter tones expand the face and darker tones slim it down.

“I can’t stand women above 40 going very dark using one block colour. This makes them look like they are trying extremely hard to be young. Women above 40 should always go for soft and flattering tones that work with their skin tone and their age. Not what used to work 20 years ago.”

Your say: What length do you like to wear your hair? What is the most important hair care issue to you? Share with us below?

To prevent your face signalling – We Know What You Did Last Summer – it’s best to start a program of running repairs as soon as possible so that the punishing trio of the sun, swimming and outdoor entertaining doesn’t start to strip moisture from the lower layers of the skin in a bid to protect the surface. That’s the reason your skin can look fine one week and then turn dry, tight and flaky the next as the drier cells hit the outer layer.

DAMAGE CONTROL POWERHOUSES
It’s more important to exfoliate your face twice a week during summer than it is in winter because perspiration mixes with makeup and skincare products and can clog pores. Always use a gentle exfoliant such as RoC Gentle Exfoliating Cream, $32, rocskincare.com.au, to remove dead skin, free radical build-up and boost micro-circulation. Now the skin is prepped for repair and rehydration.

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Just slapping on a richer moisturiser won’t do the trick of keeping your face looking plump and radiant. It’s best to use a specialist product such as Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus Wrinkle and UV Damage Corrector, $98, clinique.com.au, which is formulated to heal skin damage. As the name implies, it’s an anti-aging serum that can be used day and night to diminish the appearance of wrinkles and repair and help to prevent further sun damage.

“Imagine waking up to a younger you” is the irresistible promise of Avon Anew Rejuvenate Glycolic Facial Treatment, $49.99,  avon.com.au. It’s more than just hype,too. Designed to reduce damage from ageing and fade wrinkles and lines, 78% of women in clinical studies reported that their skin felt re-texturised overnight after using this hard-working de-ager. While a massive 94% claimed that their skin was smoother and their lines appeared less prominent within one week. Unlike many products with glycolic acid in the mix, it’s not harsh, either.

Estee Lauder has long been a pioneer in reversing the effect of environmental damage. A new limited edition of Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex, from $105, esteelauder.com.au, was released on January 1st to celebrate the 30th anniversary of this cult product which is also Australia’s number one selling anti-ageing treatment product. A top seller worldwide, the silky serum is renowned for its ability to smooth away the visible signs of ageing and repair the appearance of past damage. Hydration levels in the skin also receive a boost and ANR, as it’s devotees call it, also protects against future environmental assaults on the skin.

Your say: How do you try to prevent summer skin damage? What damage controls do you put in place? Share you tips below.

As we get older our lashes get lesser – thinner, sparser, slower to grow and more brittle. As that happens, eyes become less noticeable, even look dull or tired, and attention is drawn to fine lines and wrinkles.

The good news is that full, fluttery lashes are just a few swipes away with a plethora of new growth boosters and enhancers.

LASH GROWTH BOOSTERS
The two ingredients that help lashes grow faster, bimatoprost and latanoprost, were discovered by accident. Patients who were treated for glaucoma found a wonderful side effect from their medication – longer lashes.

Realising these benefits, cosmetic companies in the US and Canada created lash boosting serums. Due to the nature of these products they are considered as a medicine and require a prescription to purchase.

One of these is Allergan’s Latisse – whose “face”  in US advertising is actress Brooke Shields – but it hasn’t yet been approved for use in Australia.

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• Lash Factor
• How To Find The Right Mascara

LASH GROWTH ENHANCERS
Until the “industrial strength” formulation can be prescribed by your doctor here, there are some impressive over-the-counter lash growth enhancing products.

What they do is encourage blood circulation and deliver nutrients to the lash follicles. They contain ingredients that replenish keratin (which hair is made from), strengthening lashes and promoting a longer eyelash growth phase. This in turn means lashes appear longer and thicker but does not actually make them grow… if they did, they’d be prescription products. But what does it matter if your lashes still LOOK longer!

Growth boosters and enhancers are applied very closely to the root of your lashes to reach the follicle. These types of treatments take about 14-28 days to see results.

The recommended usage is daily for at least 4-6 weeks, after which you can reduce applications to twice a week. If you stop using lash enhancers your lashes will eventually return to their normal length.

Products to try:

Revlon Grow Luscious Mascara, $21.95. A double-duty product, this lash enhancer and mascara uses a patented formula of fibres and phytopeptide complex to condition and strengthen lashes with each use.

L’Oreal Paris Renewal Lash Serum, $25.45. Regular use will toughen up fragile lashes, repair damage from makeup removal and stimulate growth for a fuller, thicker flutter.

Smashbox Lash Revival Treatment and Conditioner, $34.95. This is a 2-in-1 wonder. Apply the treatment end of the wand across your upper lid (only at night) and once it’s dry, comb the conditioner through your lashes.

ModelCo Lash and Brow Growth Stimulator, $42. After a quick fix? Apply a generous coating of this wonder product every night for voluptuous lashes in just 14 days. This serum restores sparse lashes and stimulates growth with a conditioning blend of vitamins and proteins.

shu uemura Lash Builder, $46. Mr Uemura is the undisputed King of Lashes. Doubling as a lash primer, it also smooths the lash surface so your mascara glides on effortlessly.

CPRx Lash Prescription, $69. How does 72 per cent sound? That’s how much this clinically proven serum claims will boost the thickness and length of your lashes. Peptide technology works to transform short and stubbies into a killer pair of lashes.

Mirenesse 4D Secret Lash Evolution Serum Eyelash and Brow Enhancer, $129. Containing 15 patented key ingredients to enhance and improve the lifecycle of your lashes, this is the first anti-ageing product of its kind: it also minimises fine lines around the eye area while promoting thicker, stronger lashes.

Fusion Beauty StimuLash Fusion Intensive Night Conditioning Lash Enhancer, $145. This intensive serum is brimming with peptides, amino acids and botanicals to nourish and hydrate lacklustre lashes. Added vitamins A and C protect the skin around your eye while vitamin E shields against the elements.

Jan Marini Marini Lash Eyelash Conditioner, $240. Miss Marini was a pioneer for lash enhancing products and this miracle gel is a revolution in lash lengthening technology. Apply to your upper lid like eyeliner for full, dense lashes and perk up your peepers in just 4-6 weeks.

M2 Lashes Eyelash Activating Serum, $275. This serum may be on the pricey side but the results are said to be eye-popping. Packed with ingredients to promote extra long lashes, swipe across your upper lash line daily for visibly longer, high drama lashes in 6-16 weeks.

Clinique Lash Building Primer, $31 boosts the effects of mascara as it conditions and protects lashes. It thickens and lengthens lashes as well as making them stronger.

M.A.C Prep and Prime Lash, $25 smooths and conditions the lashes allowing for more intense volume and lengthening when mascara is applied.

If you haven’t added a peptide-rich moisturiser to your skincare routine by the time you reach your early 40s, the moment to act is now.

There’s nothing new about the link between peptides and skincare. In the 1970s, the US physician Dr Loren Pickart discovered that copper peptides were extremely effective in healing wounds and skin lesions.

But what really sets them apart from other anti-ageing powerhouses is that they reduce the formation of scar tissue while stimulating the skin’s natural ability to remodel itself. In short,peptides help damaged skin to look better.

Ageing is a complex process and many scientists believe that time isn’t the only factor involved. An increasing number of researchers believe that ageing is a “manageable disease” – technically, wrinkles are small wounds that have healed improperly – which is why copper and other peptides are so successful in smoothing and toning the skin.

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A major study by the Tulane University School of Medicine showed that cream containing peptides produced a visible improvement in fine wrinkles. Ground-breaking research that was backed up by another study from the University of Pennsylvania, which also clearly demonstrated that the regular use of creams containing peptides improved elasticity and thickness in the skin.

Since the mid-90s, copper peptides and other patented peptide complexes such as Matrixyl, Argireline and Amino-Peptide Complex have been finding their way into hundreds of anti-ageing creams and moisturisers. And with good reason. Peptides essentially act as messengers in the skin, allowing the epidermis and dermis to “communicate” more efficiently. Matrixyl has been proven to reduce wrinkle volume by over 30 per cent after 16 weeks of use.

Best of all, though, peptides offer gain without pain. Many anti-ageing treatments such as AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) irritate the skin in order to stimulate collagen and new skin growth. Peptides, on the other hand, prompt the skin’s natural rebuilding process without side-effects.

And because the ageing process is still not fully understood, peptides and other highly effective skincare ingredients such as Vitamin C and AHAs are increasingly being combine in “cocktails” to produce a new generation of results-oriented but gentler anti-ageing options. And who doesn’t want that choice?

WHICH PEPTIDE IS THAT?
* Copper Peptides. The “grande dame” of peptides in use in skincare. Found in: the Neova skincare range available from www.facetoday.com.au. The most intense treatment is Neova Creme De La Copper, an intense moisturiser that smooths the skin and make it more radiant and healthy.

* Matrixyl (or palmitoyl pentatpeptide-3). Developed by the pharmaceutical company, Sederma SA, and Procter & Gamble (P&G), the makers of Olay skincare, the joint creators claim that Matrixyl is just as effective against wrinkles as retinol but doesn’t cause skin irritation that can be a side-effect of using retinoids. Chemically, it is a chain of five amino acids attached to a fatty acid for better skin penetration and is structurallysimilar to the precursor of collagen type 1 in our own skin. Many studies have found that Matrixyl stimulates the production of collagen and elastin – the skin’s binding agents and that it is very effective in repairing sun-damaged skin. Another study, presented at the World Congress of Dermatology in Paris in 2002, rubber-stamped the fact that there is visible improvement in the appearance of wrinkles. Found in: Dermalogica Age Smart Dynamic Skin Recovery, $112.

* Amino-Peptide Complex. The star ingredient of Olay Regenerist line, amino-peptide complex debuted at the 61st Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology in 2003. It combines advanced peptide technology with Vitamins B and E to promote the cell renewal process. In clinical tests conducted by P&G with 200 women aged 35 to 60 following eight weeks of using Olay Regenerist, over 80 percent of the respondents said that their fine lines and crow’s feet were less noticeable and their skin felt smoother and more hydrated. Found in: Olay Regenerist Daily Revitalising Serum, Eye Lifting Serum and Intensive Night Revitalising Cream, all $32.49.

* Argireline ( or acetyl hexapeptide-3). Developed by the Spanish company, Lipotec, this is the peptide often used in creams that claim to “work like Botox”. Chemically speaking, it is a chain of six amino acids attached to an acetic acid, that is believed to work by inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters. In theory, when applied to the skin argireline relaxes tension in the face leading to a relaxation of facial lines and wrinkles. Nothing works like Botox, of course, which is injected into specific facial muscles around the eyes and forehead to give a smooth effect and it is a medical procedure. Argireline does not penetrate deeply enough to reach muscles. But like other peptides, it stimulates the growth of new skin and collagen. Found in: Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Plump Perfect Makeup, $76, Skinvitals Elixir Mask, $14.95 for 3 and Beautician’s Secret Wrinkle Eraser, $35.99.

* Palmitoyl Tripeptide-3. Another short chain peptide – three this time – that also promises plumping effects. Clinical studies have shown that it improves the skin’s firmness and moisture content and reduces the appearance of wrinkles. Found in: Dr LeWinn’s Private Formula Ultra 4 range – Recovery Masque, $59.95, Eye Repair Cream, $64.95, Restorative Cream, $84.95, Rejuvenation Fluid, $74.95, and Regenerative Night Cream, $94.95.

* Poly-Collagen Peptides. A patent-pending peptide exclusive to Estee Lauder, it is composed of several peptide and collagen fragments. The company claims that it prevents the skin’s natural enzymes from deleting the effect of peptides on wrinkles. Found in: Estee Lauder Perfectionist CP+ Wrinkle Lifting Serum Corrector, $92.

Your say: Are you interested in peptides? What are your favourite anti-ageing creams? Share your tips below.

Far from being a one-off, supermarket shelves groan with top-performing makeup, moisturisers and more made by some of the world’s biggest personal care companies. They may not have the fancy packaging of their department store counterparts, but they work just as well. Let’s look at some of the top value supermarket beauty products that save you money, but don’t sacrifice your style.

FIRST BASE
There used to be an old beauty myth that you should never economise on foundation. It hasn’t been true for years. Big brand names like Covergirl, Maybelline New York and L’Oreal Paris make amazing makeup for bargainistas, thanks to their huge research and development budgets. Covergirl has a wardrobe of foundations, close to or just over the $20 mark. The most inexpensive is Covergirl Clean Liquid Makeup, $15.50, a water-based formula that gives, light, natural coverage. If de-aging is a priority, step up to Covergirl Simply Ageless creme foundation, $24.95, that is boosted with Olay Regenerist Serum. Keep shine to a minimum with Covergirl Professional Finishing Powder, $14.50,  a loose, light powder that lasts for hours.

EYES RIGHT
Cheaper mascaras have had a formidable reputation for decades. Maybelline New York Great Lash Mascara, $15.95 is the biggest selling mascara in history and is a must-have for makeup artists worldwide. Team with Maybelline New York Expert Wear Quads – four shades of crease-proof shadow in every palette for only $14.95, 1300 369 327.

GIVING LIP
Inexpensive lipsticks once had a reputation for seeping and fading – fast. Rimmel London blasts this outdated notion out of the water with Moisture Renew Lipstick – a glide-on formula that protects, moisturises and plumps the lips for only $13.95. Or, save even more with Rimmel London Kate Moss Lasting Finish Lipstick, $11.95, 1800 812 663. Looking for a borderline prestige lippie? Check out Maybelline New York Color Sensational Lip Color, $16.95, which comes in 44 great shades and nourishes like a lip balm.

FACE UP
Top-selling brands such as Nivea, Olay, Garnier and Neutrogena produce skincare ranges stocked by supermarkets that are just as efficacious in fighting premature ageing and wrinkles as their expensive counterparts. But prices have been steadily rising for the past decade and the most advanced products found in the personal care aisles from the big multinationals can cost between $30 and $50 and more such as the latest breakthrough from L’Oreal – Youth Code Rejuvenating Anti-Wrinkle Day Care, $35.95, 1300 659 259. The good news is that there’s still plenty of first-rate moisturisers for a lot less when you want to spend only $20 or less.

Top buys to try include: Garnier Youthful Radiance Multi-Action Day Cream, $13.95, 1300 659 259; Nivea Visage Anti-Wrinkle Q10 Plus Day Care, $18.98; 1800 103 023; Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Night Renewal Cream, $12.99, 1300 191 918; Biore Skin Preservation Power Couple Moisturiser + SPF 30 Lotion, $19.67; 1800 468 318; ) and Olay Complete UV Protection Moisture Cream, $14.69, 1800 028 280.

Your say: Have you ever purchased a face cream from your supermarket? What are your favourite products to buy on the cheap? Share with us below.

SPEND A FRUGAL $50 WITH THIS CREAM
Signs of ageing are targeted with this super-duper cream that certainly won’t break the bank. Olay Regenerist Superstructure Cream SPF30, RRP$49.99, contains an amino-peptide complex, which works on premature ageing and has great hydrating power. A fine alternative for those who hate injections, this cream helps boost collagen production. As the Aussie sun is known as a skin culprit of ageing, this contains an SPF30 to block direct DNA-damaging UV rays to help protect skin structural integrity. The formula is most effective in the prevention of ageing before your time.

SPEND $120 FOR AN ACUPUNCTURE FACELIFT
The only needles used in this facelift are traditional Chinese acupuncture ones. “It’s a non-invasive approach to facial rejuvenation,” says Claire O’Mara, acupuncturist and clinical nurse specialist at All Saints Cosmedical Clinics, Sydney. Working on the principle that beauty radiates from the inside out, and designed for each individual, Claire says this “facelift” helps you “eliminate fines lines” or “diminish larger wrinkles around the eyes, nose and forehead” as circulation is improved, “nourishing, toning and boosting the elasticity of the skin”. Ultra-fine needles are strategically placed locally in the face to improve a specific area such as the frown line between the eyes.  Says Claire: “There are no long-lasting side effects or allergic reactions, and this cosmetic acupuncture doesn’t compromise facial mobility.” Single treatments are $120, but a course of 10-15 sessions are recommended for best results, with top-up treatments every month.

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SPEND $550 AND HAVE NO MORE SMOKER’S LIPS
A pursed, wrinkled lip area, often due to smoking, can bring the whole look of the face down. “Vertical lip lines have a particular ageing effect on the face,” says Dr Peter Bakaric, of Sydney’s Collagen Face Centre. To fix this and get rid of the ageing, fatigued look, Dr Bakaric suggests injecting a filler such as Esthelis directly under the vertical lines. “I also inject the filler in a ‘cross-hatch’ pattern under and at right angles to the lines to provide support structure under the skin which minimises creasing of the superficial layer of the skin.” When there is a problem of lipstick bleeding, the vermillion border can also be injected to “prevent lipstick ‘riding’ up the fine lines.” Dr Bakaric says the person will look “less weathered” and “more youthful”. Cost is around $550 and lasts about six months.

SPEND $1000 AND GET A BROWLIFT WITH ULTHERAPY
Ultherapy uses sound waves to safely firm and lift skin tissue without affecting the skin’s surface. Acoustic sound energy goes deep into the skin where cells are formed. This triggers the body’s natural healing process which results in strengthened collagen fibres, which work to firm or lift. Says Dr Warwick Nettle, of Sydney’s Silkwood Medical, “Ultherapy is extremely effective at lifting and firming.” People who suffer from brow droop can use Ultherapy to non-invasively firm up the tissue. You can also do the full face or neck, but this will cost more than the $1,000. After numbing cream is applied, the hand-held device is moved section by section over the areas to be treated. There may be some discomfort deep in the skin. Treatment takes about 30-plus minutes, and you may be pink afterwards. But soon your skin will be tauter and refreshed. Expect this to last12 to 18 months. (The full face costs about $3,500.)

A COOL $2000 FOR A LIQUID LIFT
“Cheek lifting has become a popular and simple procedure to provide lifting to sagging facial structures,” says Dr Peter Bakaric. “As we age facial tissues tend to sag with the effects of gravity.” He adds, “Higher and fuller cheekbone structure provides a more youthful look.”

Using the non-permanent hyaluronic-acid-based dermal filler Fortelis, which lasts 12 to 18 months, the process takes about 30 minutes and can “mimic surgical lifting”.

After an assessment and local or topical anesthesia applied in the areas to be treated, the dermal filler is injected into the appropriate zones and molded into position. Once this is done, an icepack is applied and normal activities can be resumed instantly.

“A repeat treatment may be required, and typically one to three sessions are required with Fortelis,” he comments. “One treatment of 1ml of Fortelis can cost $600, but usually 2-4ml or product is used, which cost up to around $2,000.” If you have an aversion to needles you may prefer the permanent filler, Aquamid, which lasts about seven years.

Says Dr Bakaric: “The end result is a pleasant and natural lifting to the cheek and mid-face areas.”

SPEND $4000 AND REVITALISE YOUR WHOLE VISAGE
If the face staring back at you in the mirror looks older than you feel, Thermage is the perfect non surgical treatment for lifting your face (and the added benefit of taking the neck with it).

It is a non-invasive skin tightening procedure that uses capacitive radio frequency (CRF) technology called ThermaCool to heat up the collagen in the deeper layers of the skin and its underlying tissue, while simultaneously protecting the outer layer of the skin with a cooling system.

“Thermage tightens and lifts the skin, and works especially well to define and smooth the jawline and give the cheeks a lift with virtually no downtime,” says Dr Mei-Heng Tan, of Skin Savvy in Sydney.

“It takes about one and a half hours depending on areas treated and, with a good result, changes can be seen almost immediately and are permanent. This same process can also be used effectively to firm and tone sagging skin on the thighs, buttocks and arms, and may help the appearance of cellulite.”

Depending on the practitioner and areas treated, Thermage for the face can cost between $3800-$4200.

TOP COVER
Anyone planning to attend an all-day function such as a wedding, the races or a family lunch  knows that Australia’s harsh sunlight can make you look a decade older if you are too lavish when applying foundation and powder. To avoid the “made-up” look that looks totally wrong in bright sunlight, reach for a long-lasting but light-textured foundation. Good buys include: Ulta3 Mineral Mousse Foundation, $9.95, 800 181 040, Shu Uemura Face Architect Sheer Refining Mousse Foundation, $62, (02) 9931 8888, Avon Invisible Coverage Foundation, $29.99, avon.com.au and Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation, $32, 1800 181 040 – a lifesaver that makes even dull complexions look lively.

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Tinted moisturisers are also a safe bet because they don’t fall into lines and wrinkles, especially if you perspire too much. Try: Natio Tinted Moisturiser, $18.95, natio.com.au, or Bobbi Brown Tinted Moisturiser, $68, selected department stores, for a more youthful look.

The ads may look as if the product is aimed at young women, but many older women are finding that Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector, $13.95, 1300 659 259, the first B.B. Cream to be launched in Australia, works wonders on more mature skin to hide small pigmentation marks, broken veins and other blemishes and also leaves the skin looking fresh-as. What do the initials B.B stand for? The answer is blemish balm and they are considered must-haves in many Asian countries, especially Korea. It’s not surprising that so many over-40s are loving the Garnier product, though, because B.B creams were invented in Germany in the 1950s to disguise marks left after cosmetic surgery.

LIGHTEN UP
Whether it’s Scarlett Johansson or Cate Blanchett, most celebs these days give off a high wattage glow when they preen for the cameras. Don’t be fooled into thinking this translucence is due to a new love or yoga. There’s an army of radiance and glow products on the market that can pep up your complexion in a single sweep. Far from being the unattractive shine products of yesteryear, they not only add a silky glow they also help your face “compete” with major fashion trends such as bold primary colours, chunky necklaces and sparkling tops. And by reflecting light, tinted moisturisers, illuminators and powders can slash years of your age. Top buys include: Lancome Teint Miracle Highlighter, $55, department stores, and The Body Shop Radiant Highlighter, $28.75, Body Shop stores.

Some products are in a category of their own. Jane Iredale Amazing Base, $79, janeiredale.com, is a foundation, powder, concealer and sunscreen all in one. A godsend for anyone attending a day at the races or an all day event. It offers perfect coverage for women suffering from acne, rosacea or “high colouring”, too. A cult favourite in the US and the UK, Amazing Base bestows a great glow that truly lasts for hours.

STAYING PUT
Two things that should never run  are mascara and eyeliner. For a false lash effect that won’t budge Maybelline New York Colossal Volum’Express Waterproof Mascara, $19.95, 1300 369 327, fits the bill. CoverGirl Outlast Eyeliner, $13.95, covergirl.com.au, is smudgeproof and won’t bleed into fine lines and wrinkles to creat the dreaded panda look.

Waterproof is also a big plus for long-wearing eyeshadows. To make doubly sure that your eyeshadow doesn’t crease or move, smooth on Clinique Touch Base for Eyes ($29′clinique.com.au) which doubles the staying power of any eyeshadow you put over it. Other top performers in the no-crease, no-fade stakes are: Maybelline New York Expert Wear Quads, $14.95, and L’Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow, $19.95, lorealparis.com.au, which adheres to the eyelid like a second skin for hours of wear.

The higher the powder content of a lipstick, the less it will melt when temps start to soar. But matte-look, longwear lipsticks are no-nos in the glare of bright sunshine. Fortunately, there are many lip colours available that will take you from sunrise to sunset without producing the hard-mouthed look. Try – Estee Lauder Pure Color Sensuous LipColor, $49, 1800 061 326, containing TrueVision Technology for colour that stays true all day, Max Factor Colour Elixir Lipstick, $20.95, 1800 181 040, that moisturises and conditions, Clarins Rouge Prodige, $42, with high fidelity Pearl Technology for long-lasting colour, shine and comfort; department stores, and Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick, $9.95, rimmellondon.com.au.

For a bib-and-braces strategy to keep your lipcolour in place through many glasses of Champagne, smooth on the lipstick of your choice and top with a compatible shade of lipgloss.

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS

• Nothing torpedos a youthful look faster than negelected hands. Many women apply sunscreen to their faces and yet never think about the delicate, easily damaged skin on the backs of their hands. If you are outside all day – always smooth on sunscreen. If your hands do become dehydrated and “crinkly”, slather on a thick layer of Sally Hansen Firming Hand Creme, $9.95, sallyhansen.com; (which claims to make your hands look up to 10 years younger after a month of use) before you go bed and pull on some surgical gloves. The heat from your hands helps the cream to absorb better overnight.
• Research studies show that people who get their sunshine in bursts are in greater danger of contracting skin cancer than those with outdoor jobs. Always choose a foundation or tinted with a high SPF such as Revlon Age Defying DNA Makeup with SPF 20, $39.95, revlon.com.au, or smooth on a primer with a high SPF such as Shu Uemura UV Base – a cult product in Asia – before applying your foundation.
• Concealer is the best friend of every woman over 30 who wants a flawless complexion. In summer, though, a too-thick concealer can melt and run, especially under the eyes. Choose a light-textured concealer such as Revlon PhotoReady Concealer, $24.55; which looks flattering even in bright light)  to avoid concealer emphasising lines and wrinkles.
• Many perfume ingredients react with the sun and can cause pigmentation, notably on the neck. Alcohol-free fragrances are great choices for hot summer days and nights. Or smooth on a product that scents and moisturises your skin at the same time such as Estee Lauder Sensuous Nude Body Veil, $70, department stores.

Your say: What are your tips for keeping your makeup in place? Do you change your makeup routine depending on the weather? Share with us below.

The Pumpkin Peel promises to brighten skin within as little as one treatment; within six treatments, it aims to restore radiance and rejuvenate a tired complexion, and help clarify skin, relieve acne and banish congestion.

The “lunchtime” clinic/salon treatment works by using a combination of several different acids, all of a different molecular size.

“This allows the peel to work on the skin at different depths,” explains Will Fennell from Will and Peta salon in Sydney. “It combines lactic and salicylic acids with an enzymatic pumpkin pulp, as well as vitamin A, which is a powerful skin cell regulator.”

The peel is administered in two strengths: “We start clients off with a three per cent strength,” explains Will. “This is usually if their skin is unaccustomed to using Acids or Vitamin A. After one or two peels, we gauge how their skin responds, then we take it up to a 10 per cent strength, which really ramps up the action and benefits of the peel.”

The treatment itself can be administered as a quick lunchtime peel – cleanse, peel, hydrate and apply sun protection – or integrated into a wellness rejuvenation facial, which includes 20 minutes under the Omnilux Revive LED lamp, which helps to trigger the skin’s repair responses.

“The peel has basically ‘burned’ the skin,” explains Will. “It’s created trauma, so that the skin repairs itself in a normal, younger, healthier state. The light speeds up its repair responses, which then boosts production of collagen and elastin.”

Following the Omnilux Light, skin is massaged for 20 minutes, using a nourishing cream suited to individual skin type.

“If someone has congestion or acne, we would use a purifying product. For anti-ageing or radiance infusing, we would look at a product containing Squalene, Shea butter or vitamins, which are deeply hydrating, healing and restorative.

“It’s all about damaging skin with peel, then helping it rebuild itself. It is renewing and rebuilding.”

One peel will leave skin better hydrated, more radiant and clarified, with less congestion, however, for best results, invest in a series of six, over six weeks, suggests Fennell.

“A series will result in incredible luminosity and brightening of the skin, which comes from removal of skin cells and the actions of vitamin A regulating their shape and health as they renew themselves.

“Salicylic Acid will clear the pores, while the lactic acid encourages hydration from deep within the skin, plumping out fine lines and softening the appearance of wrinkles. You also receive long term plumping from the rebuilding of collagen.” Pumpkin Peels cost around $99 each. Phone 1300 799 709 for salon locations.

Peels in general can help you shed layers of damage, whether your concern is lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, enlarged pores, congestion and blemishes  or a generally tired, dull complexion.

From at-home care, to the beauty therapist or the dermatologist, you can restore glowing, radiant, younger-looking skin with minimum time and expense.

“Peels offer great benefit for a variety of conditions,” explains Sydney dermatologist Dr Jo-Ann See. “They can help clear acne, reverse photo ageing, soften lines and improve both the appearance and feel of the skin.”

Today, peel formulations range from herbal, botanical, vitamin and acid-based, either glycolic, salicylic or lactic. At-home peels are buffered to activate only to certain strengths and times, as are peels performed in a salon, which tend to be slightly stronger than self-administered peels.

Medical strength peels are the strongest and most effective. They generally require down-time, can be uncomfortable and must be administered by a dermatologist, cosmetic surgeon or cosmetic nurse, who will closely monitor activating time and pre-and post-peel care.

But even mild-strength home peels can cause sun-sensitivity, so it is important to be cautious duing the summer months in particular. “You’re exposing new skin,” says Dr See. “You need to protect it. Stay out of the sun immediately after your peel, and always apply sun block the next day before venturing outside.”

Depending on strength you require, you can begin your peel program at-home. Simply apply according to the instructions that come with the formula.

“We then recommend as people begin to see benefits, they take it up a level, going to a salon peel and then even a medical strength peel,” says Dr See.

SALON TREATMENTS

Aside from the new Pumpkin Peel, others to consider:

•   The Peptide Peel (between $125 and $150 per peel)
This uses glycolic and lactic acids, peptides and hyaluronic acids to stimulate collagen production within deeper layers of the skin. It targets sun damage, fine lines, and wrinkles, dry and dehydrated skin and some sensitive skin conditions. It is not painful, and a facial can be performed at the same time. There is no shedding; rather, the AHAs allow the peptides to work within the dermis. Within 24 hours skin appears brighter, smoother and more toned. A series of six treatments once every two weeks is recommended for best results, with maintenance programs recommended every six months. Call: 1300 799 709.

•   The Stem Cell Peel (from $150)
A resurfacing treatment that address ageing and acne, this relies on botanically derived stem cells (from lilac leaves) together with a glycolic acid resurfacer and anti-inflammatory, soothing plant extracts to help trigger human stem cell activity and regeneration, improve the tone and texture of the skin and soften the signs of ageing. There may be mild shedding, but this is rare. The peel is left on between five to 10 minutes, depending on the skin issues and the client can return to work immediately afterwards. Results are evident after one peel, in that radiance is restored, sallowness minimised and skin tone improved, but for best results, a series of six treatments over six weeks is suggested. Call: 1300 799 709.

•   The Herbal Aktiv Peel ($699, which includes three at-home skin maintenance products and a post-treatment).
This relies on a solution of natural stimulants, exfoliants and regenerating and soothing herbs, which is massaged into the skin to trigger a peeling, resurfacing effect. The downtime of the peel is five days, with a reddening and tightening of the skin, similar to sunburn, experienced up until Day 3, when shedding occurs.  On Day Five, a follow up facial removes any traces of flaking skin and a newer, fresher skin is revealed. Call: 03 9645 0200.

MEDICAL PEELS

•   Priori Forte Lactic Acid Chemical Peel, $160
A medical strength peel that uses seventy-five per cent lactic acid, this must only be performed by a paramedically trained beauty therapist, clinical nurse or cosmetic physician. It offers advanced exfoliation, normalising skin renewal rates, hydrating skin from within and decreasing signs of ageing. There is some mild tingling, but there is no shedding or downtime. Lines and wrinkles appear softened and skin becomes more radiant and firmer. Results will last and improve with home use of the prescribed Priori Forte skin care range. A course of weekly peels over four weeks will maximise results. Call: 1800 808 993

•    Vitamin A Peel (approximately $250 per peel, not including pre and post skin care).
This medium-depth peel is associated with minimal downtime, as skin is prepped for two weeks prior to treatment with vitamin A skin care, so it becomes accustomed to topical vitamin A. On treatment day a combination of high strength Vitamin A and lactic acid is applied to skin from between three to twenty minutes. “Skin already has receptors for vitamin A, so the peeling on medium depth level happens immediately,” says Lisa Sullivan-Smith from The Clinic in Bondi Junction, Sydney. “Most people experience light shedding and dry skin, which clears up within a week to reveal rejuvenated, retexturised skin with softened lines, wrinkles and pigmentation.” Three peels over three weeks are advised for best results. Assuming a healthy lifestyle is followed, home care vitamin A is used and clients stay out of the sun, results should remain fresh for up to six months. For longer-lasting results, one maintenance peel every six months is recommended.  Call: 02 9386 1533

AT HOME PEELS

•    Clinique Turnaround Radiance Peel Once-a-Week System, $110. A two-phase glycolic peel that leaves skin smoother, more even-toned and radiant.
•    La Prairie Cellular 3 Minute Peel, $300. This AHA/BHA peel works in three minutes to refresh the skin, rejuvenate, rehydrate and protect.

OTHER SKIN-REFINING OPTIONS

While peels offer stellar results in terms of skin refining, rejuvenation and restoration, there are other options available.

-   Proteolytic Enzyme Treatment, from $100
This facial uses a resurfacing formula made up of paw paw and a proteolytic enzyme. “The enzyme recognises dead skin cells from healthy tissue and goes across the surface of the skin like a little Pacman, very gently removing any dead keratinised layer and leaving a fresh healthy skin,” explains cosmedic nurse Claire O’Mara, from All Saints Cosmedical Clinic in Darlinghurst, Sydney. “It is great to use a few days after resurfacing lasers and chemical peels ads it will cut down shedding time and amplify the benefits. It takes the skin off gently and immediately.” It can also be performed as a singular procedure too, to offer smoother, fresher more refined skin. Call: 02 9357 7557

-    Microhydrabrasion, RRP $129
Similar to microdermabrasion, this procedure uses a diamond tipped wand, together with aloe and water to remove the outer dead layers of the skin that cause dullness, and a poor, rough texture. “The tip of the wand is moved over the skin to deeply exfoliate and clean out the pores, while the aloe and the water soothe and cool,” says Will Fennel. “The cooling action allows for a deeper dermabrasion, which facilitates better absorption of treatments creams, promotes collagen production and cell renewal and creates brightening of a skin. There is no downtime – it’s perfect to have the day before a big event.”
One treatment will provide immediate results, but for maximum benefit, six treatments over six weeks is advised. Call: 02 9388 0221.