Beauty: Hit the target

Chantecaille Biodynamic Lifting Neck Cream $325. Photo / Babiche Martens

We size up some specific skincare solutions.

Seems there is a cream or serum for everything these days and while surveys show many women would rather have the simplicity of a multi-tasking product, for others the allure of a targeted treatment is hard to resist.

The French are specialists in creams for the throat, neck, decolletage and wobbly body bits as evidenced by brands including Clarins, Lancome and Chanel, which along with the specialty salon ranges are good places to start looking if you're interested in focusing attention on particular issues. But they're by no means the only makers of skincare that hones in on our dissatisfaction with areas prone to show signs of early ageing or inadequate TLC.

For the face, one of the fastest growing skincare categories globally is in products that target dark spots, which are usually a sign of sun damage. Leaving aside that area for now (a column in itself), today we look at other elixirs that may appeal to women who want to go the extra mile in fighting the trials of time.

1. Grown Body Serum $49.95

With ylang ylang and tamanu oil extracts and omega fatty acids, this organic botanical skincare is antioxidant-rich and upliftingly aromatic. Absorbs well and feels great on. Best applied straight after a shower for enhanced absorption. An ideal accompaniment in this range - started by two Melbourne-resident New Zealanders - is the new Body Exfoliant ($33.95) which uses pearl extracts for exfoliation. Another touch of noteworthy luxury is that Grown sources its distinctive black hatboxes for gift items from a company that makes packaging for Chanel.

2. This Works Perfect Cleavage Firming Lotion $124

As with the backs of hands, the decolletage is quick to show signs of ageing. Nothing, other than implants, is going to restore youthful bounce - and, post-teen, perpetual perkiness can be a bit disturbing - but it pays to tend this delicate area of skin carefully. For starters extend your sunscreen application or, better yet, cover up that cleavage in peak summer sun, but for when you want to go a little low cut ensure that all is in order by presenting a well moisturised front. If you diligently use a product with some firming properties, such as the larch extract in this one, then you can make superficial improvements in tone and texture. This one also alleviates fine lines and is moisturising without being overly rich, fragranced or creamy. Use if you're after a Tindall-style embrace.

3. Chantecaille Biodynamic Lifting Neck Cream $325

Rich, but not unduly heavy cream from a firm that specialises in advanced natural skincare. This cream hydrates, firms and is said over time to help lighten the look of pigmentation (and the feel of your wallet). Gives a smoothing feel on application.

4. La Prairie Cellular Energizing Body Spray, 50ml $130, 100ml $215

The ideal body spritz for those who fly by private jet - priced by La Prairie standards like a budget ticket, meaning if you're the kind of women that happily spends the average grocery bill on a single skincare item then you might not mind misting this into the ether. It is a meeting of revitalising fragrance and hydrating spray containing marine-derived rejuvenating extracts designed as an anytime refreshment over the luxury Swiss brand's cellular skincare collection. Contains alcohol so, like other fragrances, best not swan about in the sun wearing it.

5. Dr. Hauschka Rosemary Leg and Arm Toner $53

Arms and legs are other areas where loss of firmness makes an early appearance. Exercise is your best option to maintain tone, but massaging in an emollient product helps with micro-circulation and skin appearance. This non-sticky plant oil concoction smells deliciously like a kitchen garden. It uses herb extracts to help ease the aches of tired limbs and can be applied through nylon stockings to relieve swollen ankles. A few drops leaves a silky warming feel.

6. Dr.Hauschka Regenerating Neck and Decollete Cream $135

Fight the loss of elasticity, indent of wrinkles and discolouration with this addition to Dr H's regenerating range for more mature skin, including sensitive types. Users are advised to gently stroke the light cream down the neck and up the decollete.

7. Clarins Extra Firming Lip and Contour Gentle Exfoliator $47

Tiny sugar crystals and raspberry oil slough and smooth lips and their contours. For use several times a week in conjunction with Clarins Extra Firming Lip Balm. One of those products you never would have thought of, but trust the beauty-obsessed French.

8. Nectifirm $135

A specialist skincare clinic product that incorporates peptides and proteins to strengthen skin in concentrations not always found in facial moisturisers which have a lighter texture. Suitable for use on the neck and decolletage to combat slackening, crepiness and the look of mottled skin. Nectifirm advises application with an upward motion twice daily.

Stockists: This Works and Chantecaille from Mecca Cosmetica stores.

La Prairie from Smith & Caughey. For salon stockists see Dr. Hauschka, also available from Smith & Caughey, selected Farmers, pharmacies and health food stores.

Nectifirm from Prescription Skincare, 243 Remuera Rd.

Grown skincare available from Smith & Caughey and selected pharmacies. Clarins and Lancome from brand counters in selected department stores and pharmacies.