The 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 skin care specialist Lesley Reynolds argue it out in the pages of best…
Q
I’m working from home and have developed a bad case of ‘tech’ neck – loose skin around the chin with lots of wrinkles on my neck – how can I treat this?
Natalie, Bristol
A
DR AAMER SAYS: Many patients are suddenly concerned with the appearance of their neck and jaw – and yes, too many virtual meetings are usually to blame. The angle of the screen and lighting can emphasise any problems. HIFU (High Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a non-invasive procedure that lifts and tightens loose skin in one session. A small handpiece delivers ultrasound pulses that go into the deep connective tissue. There’s no downtime except a little redness and you’ll see best results after two to three months when new collagen has formed. Results can last up to one year. From £750. To minimise neck lines, I recommend Botox to soften and smooth. Results will be seen in three to five days. From £299.
LESLEY SAYS: Skin is often neglected in this area. Use a good neck cream every day, which is designed to help the skin produce more collagen and elastin in order to maintain its firmness. Because the skin here is thinner, look for rich creams for more moisture. After cleansing, apply in an upward motion, all the way up to the jawline. Prai Neck Rescue Kit, £25, contains key ingredients in a rich formula; retinol to reduce wrinkles, hyaluronic acid to help plump and Squalane to lock in moisture. Prevention is also key, and the best way is UV protection. The majority don’t apply beyond our jawline, even though the neck is exposed. Remember your posture. Sitting at a computer, or looking at your mobile, can result in neck and shoulders becoming tense and hunched. Ensure your computer and desk are at the correct height, and take regular screen breaks.
Q What’s the best way to treat my loose upper eyelids, which have become even more noticeable now I’m wearing a face covering? Are there any tricks I can use, or anything more permanent in terms of treatments?
Alex, Carlisle A
DR AAMER SAYS: Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is the gold standard to remove excess skin. Often referred to as an eyelift, it’s a safe, long-term solution that can smooth and tighten contours with a natural result. Most are performed in one hour under local anaesthesia to minimise complications and recovery time. Incisions are made in the natural crease of the upper eyelid so you won’t notice scarring. Expect up to 14 days of downtime. From £2,400. A less expensive option, that gives great results, is Fibroblast Plasma. You’ll need three treatments four to six weeks apart with a week’s downtime. From £999 for the course. Call 020 7436 4441.
LESLEY SAYS: Loose skin in this area is difficult to treat with creams, so disguise with make-up. Always prep your lids with an eye primer before applying shadow as this will disguise any broken veins on the eyelids, and help eyeshadow stay put without creasing. Then apply pale shadow to your upper eyelids and along the roots of your lower lashes. Avoid shimmery formulas as they highlight crêpey skin. Next, use a medium-brown shade to sculpt your eye creases. Pull your eyelids up from the brow and apply above the area where your eye droops. This will make your outer lids appear more arched. As well as this, mascara can help hide loose skin –try Talika Lipocils Eyelash Growth Mascara, £25 (thebrandluxe.com), which gives instant volume but helps lash growth in the long term, too.
Q I have small flabby areas at the very tops of my arms, just under my armpits. I’d love to wear sleeveless tops but am too self-conscious. Is there a simple treatment to help tighten this area?
Sally, Wrexham
A
DR AAMER SAYS: Flabby arms is no indicator of size or fitness. For some, decreased levels of collagen and elastin are the main culprit. Depending on the amount of loose skin you could try new body threads, which are designed to tighten and lift. The one-off procedure uses PDO threads, which are inserted under the arms to act like scaffolding, leaving a tighter shape. Allow a week to 10 days’ downtime. From £1,800. For the wobbly underside, Onda Coolwaves, a non-invasive treatment, selects and targets fat cells and reduces fat deposits in a non-invasive way. It takes about 20 minutes per arm. You’ll need four to six treatments for maximum effect, a fortnight apart, Results should last two to three years with a healthy lifestyle. From £1,200 for a course.
LESLEY SAYS: The right skin care can make arms look softer, smoother, and more toned. Massage and exfoliation will support circulation and improve texture. Dry body brushing is especially good as it boosts microcirculation. Starting at the wrists, use long upward strokes and work up the arms. Essential oils can also have beneficial effects. Try lavender oil, which improves microcirculation and boosts your lymphatic system or Geranium oil, which improves circulation and helps to detoxify. Treating dimply areas with specific body creams that target fatty areas can help lessen its appearance ( but they won’t make dimples disappear). Look for products containing l-carnitine and caffeine. Try HSSC Body Rejuvenation, £25. As for exercise, yoga or Pilates will increase flexibility and help strengthen the muscles in the arms. A self-tan can make arms instantly look slimmer.