If the idea of needles isn’t for you, you’re not alone. Thankfully, achieving a fresh, luminous complexion doesn’t have to involve injectables. Whether you’re needle-shy or simply prefer a more natural approach, there are now plenty of ways to get lifted, glowing, well-rested skin, says beauty guru Nathalie Eleni

Words: Nathalie Eleni | Images: Shutterstock & various brands

Skincare Science

Science-led formulas that work beneath the surface:

Blue Lagoon Skin Science BL+ Retinol Cream

Top Sante verdict

This clever cream smooths, refines and boosts glow without the usual dryness or drama, making it a great option for more sensitive skin types. Expect softer lines, clearer pores and good skin days
Pros
  • Infused with 0.3% retinol
  • Crafted from bioactive, sustainably sourced materials
  • Reduces fine lines and promotes youthful skin texture

ESK Ultimate A Gold

Top Sante verdict

If your skin is feeling a bit tired, dull or all over the place, this is the kind of product that can bring it back to life. A powerful but easy-to-use night cream that works while you sleep
Pros
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Helps soften the appearance of lines
  • Helps maintain an even skin tone
  • Rosacea friendly

Image Skincare VOL.U.LIFT

Top Sante verdict

Bounce back in a bottle – perfect for when skin starts to feel a little less plump. Creates softness and a subtle “lifted” look to bring back that natural fullness and glow, so skin looks healthy
Pros
  • Intense plumping and hydration
  • Corrective and preventive treatment
  • Patent-pending XOSM™ technology

Natural Glow 

Plant-powered skincare that plumps and pampers in equal measure:

Neal’s Yard Remedies Wild Rosehip Glow Cream

Top Sante verdict

A lightweight gel-cream powered by rosehip oil, vitamin C-rich Kakadu plum and a hydrating watermelon complex to leave skin smooth, plump and naturally dewy
Pros
  • Contains plant-based squalane, watermelon extract, Kakadu plum extract and organic wild rosehip
  • Visibly enhances radiance, instantly hydrates and revitalises
  • Certified Organic, Vegan Approved and Cruelty-Free

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm

Top Sante verdict

Great skin starts with great cleansing. This iconic balm melts away make-up and daily build-up while deeply cleansing, hydrating and softly plumping the skin – leaving it smooth, nourished and glowing
Pros
  • 96% of users felt the product helped leave their skin feeling softened and soothed
  • 94% of users agreed that the product helped leave their skin feeling clean
  • 90% of users felt the product was effective at removing makeup

The Body Shop Edelweiss Bouncy Sleeping Mask

Top Sante verdict

Overnight skin, sorted. This lightweight sleeping mask works while you sleep to hydrate, smooth and plump, so you wake up to fresher, bouncier, well-rested skin
Pros
  • Fast absorbing, intensely moisturising
  • Leaves skin feeling renewed by morning
  • Plumps skin with 24hr hydration
  • Helps support skin’s natural moisture barrier
  • Wake up to skin that looks stronger, smoother, fresher and bouncier
  • Enriched with edelweiss extract and hyaluronic acid

For more skincare advice, follow Nathalie at instagram.com/nathalieeleni_beauty.