Gently getting under your skin

L to R: Elizabeth Arden Peel and Reveal kit, The Body Shop Re-texturising Peel, Origins Modern Friction, Perfect Potion Bare Faced Exfoliant and the La Prairie Microdermabrasion Cream.

Because old skin cells are just so ugly, shed them now. It's easily done with the fancy new over-the-counter microdermabrasion creams, peels and more traditional exfoliators. The younger skin cells that lie beneath are always so much prettier.

However tempting it may be to get at those new skin cells, don't overuse these products, getting rid of skin cells faster than they're made. Between 1-3 times a week is plenty - and be gentle about it.

La Prairie Microdermabrasion Cream
$450 for 125ml

You can just about be your own dermatologist with this professional-looking intensive resurfacing kit. You get the cream which makes the most of the polishing action of diamonds and quartz crystals - and three applicators which go from gentle to abrasive depending on where you plan on treating. This can be used to physically reveal new skin on the face and body in all its radiant glory. Very exciting for Nip/Tuck fans keen on a bit of DIY. Love it. From selected department stores and pharmacies.

Elizabeth Arden Peel & Reveal Revitalizing Treatment Kit
$120 for the set

A sucker for kits, this one doesn't disappoint. You start with the AHA-based Revitalizing Treatment complete with AHA-booster, which is painted on with a special brush that's not quite up for the job, move on to the Post Peel Finishing Solution and finish up with the Post Peel Finishing Lotion. From selected department stores and pharmacies from August 8.

Origins Modern Friction
$94 for 125ml

Origins is hailing this as nature's dermabrasion because of the rice starch ingredient that deals to those ageing, unsightly skin cells and leaves bright skin in its wake. It also has lemon oil, to help illuminate, aloe to calm and bergamot and peppermint to perk you up. Does a nice job. From selected department stores and pharmacies.

Perfect Potion Bare Faced Exfoliator
$26.95 for 100g

For good, old-fashioned exfoliation, this powder of ground up rice, clay, sandalwood, elderflower and chamomile will scrub off any build-up as it absorbs impurities. Fun playing the herbalist mixing this with water. From Health 2000 stores.

The Body Shop Skin Focus Re-texturising Peel
$40 for 50ml

Another mask that does a decent job of taking out those dead skin cells, leaving behind a more desirable, retextured surface in the time it takes to dry. From The Body Shop.