KEY POINTS:
1 Clarins Younger Longer Balm
$150 for 50ml
The ageing process never lets up. This helps with the microcirculation network that keeps skin nourished and oxygenated so skin looks fresher, toned and radiant thanks to botanical extracts of marine pine, butcher's broom and centella asiatica, as well as vitamins A, E, C, B5 and the odd-sounding Hawaiian candlenut oil. But wait, there's more. A special method of application - the youth-stimulating method - is explained in the enclosed booklet. It's patting movements that bring moisture into the upper skin layers, enhancing the delivery of nutrients.
From selected department stores and pharmacies and beauty therapists.
2 Makebelieve Gradual Self Tan and Tan Extender
$70 for 200ml
Becoming ivory skin in summer is one thing but in winter it can look downright pasty. Live in denial and use this to gradually get a hint of colour. We're not talking Donatella, more a gentle glow. This is a trooper with jojoba and hempseed oils, as well as shea butter to keep skin moisturised as it gently stimulates natural melanin production.
For stockists ph (09) 336 1891.
3 Chanel Hydramax + Active Serum
$130 for 30ml
If you do nothing else this winter, moisturise. Skin is under siege with extreme temperatures, compounded by physiological factors, and needs your help now. There's an elaborate explanation as to how this wondrous serum "re-educates skin to drink to the fullest" but it involves terminology such as Ceratonia PFA. Suffice to say, it works on a deep level, aiding skin's self-hydrating mechanism. A delight.
From selected department stores and pharmacies.
4 Origins Modern Friction for Face
$94 for 125ml
You can't go past a good round of dermabrasion. Annoyed? Take it out on dead skin cells. This has rice starch to slough off uneven patches, damage and discoloration. Lemon oil illuminates and aloe calms.
From selected department stores and pharmacies.
5 Lancome Le Vernis 103
$38 for 10ml
Bright scarlet nails are so right at the moment. If you can't have a balmy spring day in Paris or a steamy hot day in a Pacific paradise, this is the next best thing - almost. There's a cheeriness about Lancome's red nails. What's more, they're the last word in elegance.
From selected department stores and pharmacies.
