It’s cold, very cold throughout much of the US. Faces flake, hands chap and skin dries. Older skin is more sensitive to cold, and unhumidified house and office heat. One trick to feel well and look even better is to drink as much water as you can. Drink it cold, try it hot, but drink as much as you can. Water hydrates. One product, of many, that I like and often use is La Roche-Posay Anthelios SX. It’s a daily moisturizing cream with sunscreen. I like that it’s fragrance and PABA free, I carried it with me to Patagonia where sun’s dangerous UVA rays burn even when it rains. It helped.

For those of you who have been searching for ways to strengthen and grow your eyelashes, this can happen. Mascara can only do so much, but now there are many products available that are proven to grow not only your eyelashes, but even your eyebrows. Latisse (from Allergan) is available through physicians and requires their approval for use. Another great product is RapidLash (from International Research Laboratories), which is available through physicians who sell skin care product lines. If used as directed, both of these products appear to lengthen, thicken, and improve the appearance of eyelashes and eyebrows. These results can be seen in as little as six to eight weeks. Supposedly, each product bottle will last you at least two months of usage. If you've been trying different mascara lines with little to no results, maybe it's time to try one of these fine products. Admittedly, I am susceptible to media hype. I never thought there was anything wrong with the lashes I've grown fond of and that have carried me through tons of flirting, tears, laughter, sleep and wide open astonishment for 60 plus years. At this age, I wonder, which side am I on? More au natural or go with the flow and spend the dough? And, are the products safe long term? I have not tried the products and am seeking someone who has to write a review.

I found Robert Ramos' hair products at the only east coast salon that carries them: Todd Christafaro’s relaxing DC salon on Dumbarton Street. Todd is always seeking the best products possible and is one of the few stylists I’ve met who is totally dedicated to hair. He does all his own cutting, color and styling, and since he only takes one client at a time, the almost zen quiet of his salon is a welcome relief for the usual factory feel of most hair salons. Because Todd carries Robert Ramos, F&F has discovered what Hollywood seems to have already known. So I’ve tried the products and have to add my nod to those like Jessica Alba and other Hollywood types. Ramos’ products contain ingredients such as human hair keratin, whole wheat, vegetable protein and botanicals. These products are good.

Through sleepy eyes, I half watched the Oscars ritual last night. My personal favorites seem insignificant and on the whole I was pleased and relieved by the relatively short acceptance speeches. Once again though, I was aware of how so few people seemed to age and have the faces of character that come with years. Time stands still for those who represent the growing age against graying in America.

I did find myself thinking that the stage was an endless ad for the keeping youthful trend in America. I barely recognized John Travlota with his newly constructed face and Tom Hanks never seems to a age. Then of course there are the women, few of whom have crow’s feet or look as if they’ve frowned or smiled.

So for those of you who don’t feel like going under the knife: are willing to walk around with either no signs of having done anything or a few hours, days or weeks of red, bruised or scaly skin, the following may be your choice.

Here’s a quick Summary of less invasive methods used to erase lines:

Masks: Depending upon how much you choose to do, these can be done in the comfort of your own home or professionally. They tighten pores and smooth skin by peeling away unwanted dead cells and providing opportunity for new fresh cell growth. (Cost and down time vary)

Dermabraison: Dermabrasion and dermaplaning help to "refinish" the skin's top layers through a method of controlled surgical scraping. The treatments soften the sharp edges of surface irregularities, giving the skin a smoother appearance. There are even d0-it yourself kits to use in the comfort of your own home. Little or no down time. (Costs significantly vary.)

Peels: of every sort: These range from superficial exfoliating of the facial skin, to deeper elimination of dead cells. Some down time of days or up to two as the layers peel away. However, it’s not so bad that you can’t walk around

Laser: When in the hands of a professional, considered safe. Down time can be a few days as redness accompanied by and skin flaking off, heals. (Cost: Hundreds)

Juvéderm™: is a smooth consistency gel made of hyaluronic acid—a naturally occurring substance in your skin that helps to add volume and hydration. Manufactured by the makers of Botox, it is often used for similar purposes, but studies indicate it may last longer. Injectable site bruising can occur. ($400-800)

Collagen: Derived from Cows or humans, fill in fine lines, plump and soften the appearance of scars, plump lips which tend to thin as we age. Test for allergic reactions first. The results last from about 3-5 months. ($400-$600)

Radiesse: Made from a form of calcium. It can smooth wrinkles for up to two years. But it may also shift and cause bumps beneath the skin. (Average cost $850)

Fat Transfers: from a part of your body that has excess fat such as your tummy to buttocks, to your face which by losing is flesh leaves you with lines. This requires minor surgery and can both last longer and be more costly.

Then there are natural ways such as exercises and natural cosmetics, creams, and masks.

In my own opinion, whatever choice you do or do not make, nothing improves on good eating, exercise and a loving relationship. One other thought to consider. No matter what you do to your outside, true beauty is internal and shows.

One word of caution, before you do anything, and I mean anything at all, investigate the product and the practioner. The scars and discomfort you save may be your own. But then, you may never look quite a smooth as those who walked the red carpet last night.