Melanie Morris assesses the claims made for the latest crop of "miracle creams"
YSL NUTRI SYSTÈME
The product: An incredibly nourishing facial moisturiser.
Aimed at: Those who have very dry skin.
The low-down: Nutri Système contains nutri-capsules, emulsified in an oil-in-water cream. These contain protein, carbohydrate and vitamins, for optimum cell activity. When combined with water, the result is instant comfort and the plumped-out effect that goes with hydration. In the longer term, some of the ingredients used (soya and corn extract, plus a black tea derivative) are thought to restore the skin's balance, suppleness and radiance. The cream feels rich to the touch, but is quickly absorbed.
Cost: €40.
Available from: YSL counters.
DR DENESE TRIPLE STRENGTH WRINKLE SMOOTHER
The product: A moisturiser containing palmitol-pentapeptide which, it is claimed, can stimulate the speedy growth of collagen and elastin. Pentapeptides are the ingredient in Strivectin-SD, the skin-smoothing cream that's currently popular in the US - but the Dr Denese version has three times as much of the active ingredient.
Aimed at: Those troubled by lines, but who fear Botox even more.
The low-down: Dr Adrienne Denese is a New York-based dermatologist whose skincare line has a cult following. Specialising in anti-aging (or coping with the demands of a young person's life in a middle-aged person's body) she uses the latest technology and considers latest beauty fashions when devising effective skin care and cosmetic fix-its.
£68.95.
Available from: www.drdenese.co.uk.
CLINIQUE SUPERDEFENSE
The product: A breakthrough moisturising cream in three variants for very dry, normal to dry, and normal to oily skin.
Aimed at: Everyone.
The low-down: Clinique observes that our skin cannot combat the evils of today's environment and needs help on a few levels to protect both it and our immune system. Ten years in the making, Superdefense offers a three-pronged approach to skincare involving an SPF25, powerful antioxidants to fight the increasing strength and variety of free radicals, plus ingredients to boost the skin's natural defence system, helping it fend for itself. This results, they claim, in far less agitated skin, with a more even tone and better texture.
From €32.
Available from: Clinique counters.
LANCÔME RENERGIE MORPHOLIFT
The product: A complete anti-ageing programme of serum, face cream, eye cream and masque.
Aimed at Those who need a quick fix as well as long-term improvements.
The low-down: By using over 25,000 invisible "suckers", Morpholift draws the skin outwards and away from the dermal layer while simultaneously covering the face with a matrix mesh which it claims tightens and firms the skin. Meanwhile, various ingredients (including rice peptides and malt extract) work on hydrating cells, supporting facial contours and smoothing fine lines. The serum claims to offer significant immediate results - you can feel it working.
Morpholift serum, €60; face cream, €75.
Available from: Lancôme counters from February 28th.
VICHY LIFTACTIV-PRO
The product: An anti-ageing moisturiser designed to stimulate the growth of collagen, elastin and glycons - all necessary to keep the skin looking full and plump. There are two formulations, for normal and dry skin.
Aimed at: Those whose skin is ageing and losing firmness. Usually aged 40-plus.
The low-down: Liftactiv-Pro replaces Vichy's Liftactiv. The difference between the two is that the new product manages to provide a barrier to the external effects of fibroblast depletion, while also stimulating new cell growth. It's also the first product to incorporate fibrocyclamide, an active ingredient that boosts the production of fibres to hold the skin's matrix together, thus reducing sagging.
Cost: €26.
Available from: Pharmacies.
SISLEY ALL DAY ALL YEAR
The product: A light, daily moisturiser with UVA, UVB and environmental protection.
Aimed at: Over-25s.
The low-down: This velvety-feeling lotion shields skin from 90 per cent of UVA and UVB rays, keeps free radicals at bay (with apple skin extract - think how an apple discolours without it) and nourishes skin with proteins and shea butter. The technology in this product sees the active protectors giving full benefit for eight hours and, while not an anti-aging product, research has show All Day All Year to improve the condition of age signs, with ongoing use. A bit of a great all-rounder.
Cost: €220.
Available from: Brown Thomas shops.