Tried and tested: Helena Rubinstein Re-Plasty Age Recovery

Verdict: According to Helena Rubinstein, this anti-ageing night cream is packed with important ingredients. Proxylane is supposed to stimulate parts of our cells and plump up intra-cellular spaces to make us look fuller-faced and fresh again. And the cream also contains acids that are supposed to enhance the skin’s ability to recover and also to soothe skin and calm irritations. The result will be a younger, smoother and fresher face, according to Helena Rubinstein.

I support some of these claims but not all of them. I see the same fine lines and wrinkles as usual but my soon to be 50-year-old skin also looks less red and less reactive. It feels softer and firmer to the touch, too, and the overall youthfulness has increased.

Rated: 4 out of 5

Tried and tested: Clinique Turnaround Concentrate Radiance Renewer

Verdict: My skin has been dry, dull and lifeless this winter, and make-up hasn’t been able change that. At my age, around 60, you have very little faith in skin creams and are generally sceptical about ‘miracle ingredients’ as experience has shown they very rarely make a difference.

But sometimes they do! This is the case with Turnaround Concentrate Radiance Renewer, a potent serum that not only makes my skin silky smooth but also recreates some of its former elasticity. I have started to pat my own cheeks because they’re so soft now and I am happy to look at myself in the mirror, as I see a fresh and happy face looking back at me.

Rated: 5 out of 5

Tried and tested: Juice Beauty Blemish Clearing Powder

Verdict: Until trying this I had never heard of a loose powder that also treats breakouts and prevents future pimples.

The transparent powder is fragrance free and is supposed to care for skin and prevent blemishes. My skin is mostly normal but once a month, or when I eat too much junk food, I break out, especially on my chin and cheeks. This powder won’t do anything about my existing imperfections but it seems to prevent new ones, at least a little bit.

If you have problem skin and are about to buy a new powder, sure, why not try this, but FYI; there are many more potent treatments for acne.

Rated: 3 out of 5