KEY POINTS:
Much of the beauty industry's job revolves around keeping the skin hydrated - well, after coming up with the miracle wrinkle cream. Truth be told, if skin is well-quenched it looks plumper and, therefore, more youthful.
1. Eau Thermale Avene Thermal Spring Water
$31 for 300ml
"Taking the waters" was a pre-occupation with the Victorians. How they must have flocked to Avene-les-Bains thermal spring, which was declared to be "of public benefit to dermatology" in France, in 1874. Avene uses the water in its skincare range. There is nothing but the spring water and nitrogen in this spray can. It has a multitude of uses from soothing skin after hair removal to cooling down after a hectic workout.
* From selected pharmacies.
2. Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater
$21 for 118ml
Not just any old water is good enough to go into this. No. It's got to be deionized. Recommended as a pick-me-up for dehydrated, uncomfortable-feeling skin. The herbs, aloe and rosewater help comfort the skin as well as making the experience fragrant.
* From Glamorpuss.
3. QVS Soothing Mini Eye Treatment Gels
$10.95
These gel pads are a novel way of enlisting water for beautification purposes. Throw these in the fridge or freezer, chill them then use them to relieve tired, strained eyes. And the Bardot-style lash detailing is great fun.
* From selected pharmacies.
4. Yves Saint Laurent Hydra Feel Fresh Hydrating Water Gel
$95 for 50ml
The intention of this water-based hydrator is baby soft skin and dewy radiance. On normal to combination skin, this literally bathes skin in what YSL is calling the "baby skin complex' to help in the production of new cells, improve oxygenation and stimulate micro-circulation. Yes, please.
* From selected department stores and pharmacies.
5. Nivea Visage Aqua Sensation Moisturising Gel-Creme
$17.40 for 50ml
For 24 hours of non-stop hydration, look no further. The cucumber, ginseng and magnesium formula gives instant moisture to normal and combination skin.
* From selected department stores and pharmacies.
