Big beauty questions

We all want to look youthful, but why have surgery when softer options can be just as effective – and much cheaper? Husband-and-wife team Dr Aamer Khan and skincare specialist Lesley Reynolds argue it out in the pages of best…

Q

The skin on my chest is sun-damaged and thin. How can I repair it?

Lesley,Birmingham

ADR AAMER SAYS: ‘Super jab’ Ellansé not only corrects the signs of ageing but works beneath the surface to stimulate collagen production, leaving skin plumped-up and glowing. Made from Poly-L-lactic acid, it’s suitable for most skin types and ideal for the chest area. The treatment involves up to 20 microinjections just under the skin. Only one treatment is necessary, results are immediate and will carry on improving over several weeks. There is no down time, although you may have redness, which can be covered with mineral make-up. There are different versions, lasting from one year to four years. From around £450 per treatment.

LESLEY SAYS: Skin here doesn’t produce as much natural oil as your face, so give it extra care. Apply your cleanser and moisturiser right down to your chest. Vitamin C is a fantastic ingredient for this area as it builds collagen and helps treat pigmentation. The Body Shop has one of the best ranges, including a Glow Boosting Moisturiser, £16, to be used daily. Use its Vitamin C Glow Sheet Mask, £4, once a week. A build-up of dead cells can also make skin look dull. Gentle exfoliation will create a radiant appearance. Don’t overdo it though, as the skin here is delicate. Try Bioderma Hydrabio Exfoliating Cream, £11, once or twice a week. A light tanner such as Dove Visible Glow Self-Tan Lotion, £7.69, will also instantly make skin look younger and more radiant.

Q A

Coronavirus has made me more stressed than ever and I find myself grinding my teeth while I sleep. I wake up tired and in pain. How I can stop this?

Jane,Dorset

DR AAMER SAYS: Covid-related issues have created stress and one of the most common reactions is unconscious clenching and grinding of teeth ( bruxism) resulting in pain, and even severe headaches. Botox injections into the masseter ( jaw) muscles can help. The five-minute treatment is painless and results kick in around five days after injections, lasting up to six months. From £200.

LESLEY SAYS: According to a study, women are paying the price of the pandemic with higher levels of anxiety. So right now, acts of self-care are one of the most important things we can do. Simply wearing make-up has been found to boost our mental health. At night, spritz This Works Sleep Plus Pillow Spray, £27.50, scented with lavender and camomile, over your pillowcase to help you drift off. In tests, 89 per cent of people woke less often during the night, while all participants felt less restless. You could also try Mela Weighted Blanket, £89.97 (amazon.co.uk) a pressure simulation that makes you feel like you’re being hugged. Studies have shown that using them increases the level of serotonin and melatonin (happy and sleep hormones).