Q. As I've grown older, my skin's become more prone to scarring. Spots and bites now leave a mark. What can I do to speed up the healing?

A. Unfortunately, the skin's ability to heal becomes less efficient as we get older, confirms Dr. Nick Lowe, consultant dermatologist at the Cranley Clinic in London.

Sun and smoking hinder the healing process even more. But making simple changes to your skincare routine can help. Dr. Lowe suggests this three-point plan:

1. Boost your skin's natural protection with a daily moisturiser that contains sunscreen…
Apply a targeted fade-out product, like Cellex-C Fade Away Gel, £48 to stubborn marks…

—New Woman / June 2005 • UK