Do not neglect your back just because you do not see it.

The back and shoulders have become focal points, thanks to fashion's new glamorous mood. Whether it's backless cholis, halter necks or one-shoulder evening gowns, the back is in full view and should have a look of lustre. It is important to follow a skincare regime for your back. For that healthy glow, polish with an exfoliating creme or scrub that has a grainy feel like Clarins Toning and Relaxing Body Polisher, at least twice a week. Most beauticians offer back treatments and Kaya Skin Clinic's back shine and peels can help but you need several treatments before you see results. If you know that you are going to be 'wearing' a bare back, book a couple of treatments in advance. If hair is a problem, book a course of hair laser treatments, which claim to permanently get rid of unwanted fuzz.

THE ACE OF BASE

The basics of skincare and make-up for a smooth as satin complexion, at any age

This season brings us a double whammy, as far as skin and make-up is concerned. The change in weather means skin can become dry and flaky. Couple this with the wedding season and the Christmas festivities that are around the corner, which mean late nights and heavy make-up, which too take their toll on your skin.

Naughty Twenties: Simple and Clean.

Skincare: Keep it as simple as possible. Drink at least a litre of water daily to eliminate toxins and maximise your youthful glow. Oiliness and shine can be problems, so look for moisturisers that help combat this. Stick to fluid moisturisers that have a watery feel.

Make-Up: Try to avoid foundation and make the most of your youthful glow. Opt for tinted moisturisers instead, in the evenings. Yves Saint Laurent's Tinted Moisturiser works as a base and concealer. On a special evening out, if you feel a foundation is really needed, opt for something that is ultra light such as Maybelline's Ever Fresh Make-Up.

Flirty Thirties : Keep it Calm

Skincare: Many women are balancing career with motherhood and this can make for a very hectic life. The signs of aging may begin to show and any moisturiser you use should have a SPF, like Shiseido's Day Essential Moisturiser from their The Skincare range. When buying a moisturiser, ask for sample size bottles that you can carry in your bag, in case you need a top-up during the day. You may also want to keep a cooling mist spray handy. It has a calming effect on the skin.

Make-Up: As far as base make-up is concerned, this is the age when most women begin to use a foundation, especially in the evenings. One that will give your skin that added lift is Clarins Extra Firming Foundation. If your under-eyes are beginning to worry you, use Yves Saint Laurent's Touche Eclat.

STYLE BUYS

A pick of the best of the season's newest beauty products

For the Face: This season, make-up is all about colour, which is why Lakme has come out with their Fireworks range. The seasonal palette ranges from sparkling peachy pink and fiery purple-maroons to blue shot with silver undertones, cold gold and lustrous lavender. The product range includes lipstick shades to lip glosses that have a crystal like sparkle. Even the kohl eyeliners have a shimmer effect and, to give the face a real glow, there are face highlighters in gold and silver. A make-up range for the bling-bling babe! (From Rs 55, available at outlets throughout India.)

Scent of the Season: Roberto Cavalli Woman, a perfume with a simple name, has an exotic blend. This perfume spells sensuality. A mix of both floral and spicy notes, it has a feminine feel yet is mysterious. Buy it for yourself or as a Christmas gift for a friend. (Rs 2,995 for 75ml, at Shoppers' Stop)












For the rest of the story, pick up Verve November - December, on stands now!