This is Longevity’s Best in Aging Review: Longevity and Your Skin. In the wake of the recent pandemic, which has brought about a new outlook on health and the preservation of lifespan, the focus of this year’s survey is on beauty products and aesthetics that help to protect and ensure the longevity of your skin. 

The comprehensive, digitally driven assessment, now in its third year, was completed voluntarily by a number of local general practitioners, dermatologists, medical-industry professionals, and experienced beauty-industry experts, who identified what they consider to be the best products, treatments, and services available in healthy aging and aesthetic personalization.

The survey is divided into five main Best in Aging categories: Products, Supplements, Non-Invasive Treatments, Cosmetic Surgeries, and Dental Health.

Each category has been evaluated according to these criteria: 

1. Proven, consistent delivery;
2. Customer satisfaction;
3. Value for investment;
4. Relevance and appropriateness; 
5. Innovation; 
6. Problem-solving abilities; and 
7. Sustainability as an aging solution. 

Longevity received over 350 reviews from 32 industry professionals. Not all comments are listed; we have selected quotes across the survey categories. What’s important to note is that the products and services listed have been approved by the specialists who took part. 

Best in Aging Review: Longevity and Your Skin

Moisturizer

1. Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Moisture Booster

This light moisturizer delivers a hydrating and refreshing effect on the skin, helping to keep it moisturized and supple. – Longevity Editorial

2. NeoStrata: Bio- Hydrating Cream

“The NeoStrata: Bio- Hydrating Cream is for dry, sensitive and rosacea-prone skin that is lacking the necessary hydration to keep the skin barrier function intact. It hydrates, soothes and protects the skin, while gently reducing visible signs of aging, maintaining barrier function without causing any irritation.” – Dr Kamlen 

3. SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2

“As skin ages, we see diminished delivery of important lipids (fats) in the top layer. As a result, skin becomes drier, with more pronounced fine lines. SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 contains high levels of the physiological ratio of lipids in our skin. It helps to improve dull, rough-textured skin, and gives it a youthful glow.” – Dr Tarryn Jacobs

Exfoliator

Micro Scrub Lift by Laboratories SVR

“A mask scrub enriched with 0,1% pure retinol (vitamin A), it combines a physical (volcanic sand and quartz) and a chemical (retinol) exfoliating effect in one product. You leave it on the skin for 10 minutes for a gentle exfoliating effect. It’s good for wrinkles, texture, blackheads, uneven skin, and for an amazing glow.”– Dr Riekie Smit

Cleanser

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm

“Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is a luxurious anti-aging cleanser with active ingredients such as Padina pervonica. It cleanses the skin without leaving it feeling tight. It leaves the skin feeling really soft with great texture, while still removing the heaviest of make-up. This product can also be used as both a day and night cleanser.” – Tanya Lopes

Face mask

Dr Schrammek Revitalan Mask

“The Dr Schrammek Revitalan Mask is an intensive mask that promotes glowing skin. It helps to invigorate mature skin, providing the skin with new tension and strength. The mask also improves the skin’s hydration and radiance.” – Dr Nicole Kanaris

Face serums

1. Elizabeth Arden Hyaluronic Acid Ceramide Capsules Hydra-Plumping Serum

This lightweight serum uses the power of hyaluronic acid and ceramides not only to moisturize the skin, but also to firm and plump your appearance. What’s more, the capsules are 100% biodegradable. – Longevity Editorial

2. Bio Effect EGF Serum

“Created from the barley plant, the Bio Effect EGF Serum is a cellular activating serum that delivers exceptional improvements to your skin, often within days. It adds radiance and luminosity; reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and scarring; moisturizes deeply; diminishes dry spots; improves complexion; and is hypoallergenic.” – Lisa Leibov

3. Optiphi Protecting Revitalizer

“This is a great lightweight serum to rejuvenate skin affected by sun damage and photo-aging. It’s formulated with strong antioxidants to reduce sun damage and boost the skin’s natural protection mechanisms, while the calming properties soothe the skin by fighting free radicals.”

“It includes powerful active ingredients that protect against the breakdown of elastin and collagen, and reduces the appearance of sun spots and pigmentation, promoting skin vitality and radiance. It includes retinol, which targets wrinkles, age spots, UV damage and pigmentation, and furthermore controls oil production. An additional blend of extracts provides the skin with 24-hour hydration.” – Tzvia Hermann

Body moisturizer

Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream

“The Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream offers strong, long-lasting moisturizing effects for softer, smoother skin. Ideal for all skin types, it’s hypoallergenic, fragrance- and paraben-free, and is especially hydrating and moisturizing now that we are constantly using drying, dehydrating sanitizers.” – Mazanne van Staden

Pigmentation

Vichy Liftactiv Specialist Peptide-c Anti-aging Ampoules

“This is a concentrated serum featuring pure vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and specialized peptides. It acts as an effective antioxidant, while improving signs of aging, pigmentation and hydration. With good clinical studies and a decent price point, it’s a great addition to an anti-aging skincare routine.” – Dr Tarryn Jacobs

Sunscreen

Dermopal Sunscreen SPF30

This broad-spectrum product is fragrance-free, and also helps to prevent premature aging. Additionally, it doesn’t leave a white residue when applied. – Longevity Editorial

Eye Cream

1. Dermalogica BioLumin C Eye Serum

The Dermalogica BioLumin C Eye Serum is rich in vitamin C, which allows it to ease the appearance of fine lines and eye bags. – Longevity Editorial

2. Lamelle Dermaheal Eye Regeneration Plus

“The skin in the eye area is so delicate, and I’m always on the lookout for a fabulous cream to improve the signs of aging. The product softens lines and wrinkles, and helps to decrease puffiness and inflammation, while remodeling the elasticity and collagen strength. I like the texture of this luxurious cream, and you only need the smallest amount.” – Liz Ferrett

3. Exuviance Age Reverse Eye Contour

“The Exuviance Age Reverse Eye Contour is very effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes. This product improves circulation, which helps to reduce puffiness and dark circles. It also stimulates collagen and hydration around the eye.” – Tanya Lopes

Mascara

Essence Lash Princess

“The Essence Lash Princess offers the results of high-end products, at minimum cost. The savings can be used for anti-aging skin products. – Dr Nicolette Landman

Eyebrow pencil

Benefit Precisely My Brow Pencil

“The Benefit Precisely My Brow Pencil is perfect for individuals who are not ready for permanent make-up options, it has a fine point for precise application, and stays on all day. – Dr Riana van Gerve

Foundation

Environ Hydra + Foundation

“This foundation is specifically formulated to moisturize and provide light, even coverage, while complementing the skin’s natural color. It comes in four shades.” – Dr Nerina Wilkinson

Shampoo and conditioner

1. The Perfect Hair Mango & Marula Shampoo

This sulphate-free shampoo not only detangles your curls, but also hydrates and softens your hair. – Longevity Editorial

2. Moroccan Oil Moisture Repair Shampoo and Conditioner

“With the Moroccan Oil Moisture Repair Shampoo and Conditioner, the argan oil moisturizes and strengthens hair, leaving it more manageable and with a subtle fragrance. The formula is sulphate-free, phosphate-free and paraben-free. – Dr Riana van Gerve

 

3. Thymuskin Classic Shampoo and Thymuskin Balsam Intensive Conditioner

“Many patients could be experiencing hair loss during the pandemic due to stress. The combination of Thymuskin Classic Shampoo and Thymuskin Balsam Intensive Conditioner activates and proliferates the keratinocytes in the hair matrix. These are the building blocks to restore hair loss and volume.” – Dr Anushka Reddy

Hand sanitizer

1. Sunskin Hand Sanitizer

“It contains tea tree oil, is moisturizing and non-sticky, and has 70,5% alcohol.” – Dr Cobus van Niekerk

2. Charlotte Rhys Waterless Hand Sanitizer

This is a great hygiene solution for on-the-go protection, leaving your hands clean and refreshed. – Violet Schoeman

3. Dettol Instant Hand Sanitizer

“The good old Dettol Instant Hand Sanitizer is a simple, quick, effective, non-sticky, refreshing instant hand sanitizer, and is available in small portable bottles, ideal for the car or your handbag.” – Dr Debbie Norval

Hand cream

1. Thalgo Deeply Nourishing Hand Cream

“The Thalgo Deeply Nourishing Hand Cream envelops the hand in an invisible and protective, velvety “glove”. The skin is perfectly protected against harsh external elements, hard water and detergents, and stays supple and youthful.” – Kimberly Waterworth

2. Avène Cicalfate Hand Cream

“The unique formulation in the Avène Cicalfate Hand Cream contains key ingredients such as copper, zinc and soothing thermal spring water to facilitate rapid skin barrier repair. It’s ultra-nourishing and non-greasy, to protect dry and irritated hands.” – Dr Tarryn Jacobs

3. Epimax Hand Cream

“This is a deeply nourishing hand cream that creates a protective barrier on the skin, preventing further moisture loss. Scientifically formulated, it’s locally produced and cost-effective.” – Dr Riana van Gerve

Lip treatment

1. Hourglass Lip Oil

“The Hourglass Lip Oil keeps your lips super-hydrated, even in winter. It has a 24kt gold tip, as gold is antibacterial, and a thicker consistency than most lip oils.” – Dr Nicole Kanaris

2. Eucerin Aquaphor Lip Repair

“The Eucerin Aquaphor Lip Repair offers immediate relief for dryness, and soothes chapped and cracked lips with ingredients such as vitamins, shea butter and chamomile essence.” – Violet Schoeman

3. Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm

With vitamin E and peppermint oil, the Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm leaves your lips smooth and supple. – Longevity Editorial

Fragrances

1. Coach Dreams Eau de Parfum

“A tender and very feminine, super floral-fruity fragrance, I find it juicy in a way, but not too sweet, and it’s grounded by the woody base notes. The heart gardenia and cactus flower is a much more modern take on gardenia, and is beautiful.” – Liz Ferrett

2. Givenchy Irresistible Eau de Parfum

“The Givenchy Irresistible Eau de Parfum is a gorgeous, floral-woody fragrance, it opens with juicy tones of crisp pear and ambrette. I am always drawn to fragrance with luminous rose and beautiful iris in the heart, which makes this fragrance romantic, uplifting and refined. It is rounded off with blond Virginia cedar and musk.” – Liz Ferrett

3. Lancôme La vie est Belle Intensement Eau de Parfum Intense

“The Lancôme La vie est Belle Intensement Eau de Parfum Intense is a warm, delicious delicacy, while being captivating and alluring. It is an easy-to-wear, creamy fragrance, without being sweet oriental-floral. The power comes from raspberry, vanilla, heliotrope, iris benzoin, jasmine sambac and benzoin.” – Liz Ferrett

Best in Aging Supplements

Digestive health

Mibiotix Regular

“The probiotic helps to restore the microflora balance in the gut, supports the immune system, and promotes regular bowel movements, therefore minimizing abdominal discomfort and bloating.” – Dr Riana van Gerve

Detox and cleansing

Thalgo Ocean Detoxifying

“This super-detoxifying supplement prepares the body for weight loss and enhances elimination of toxins in the body. Natural and active ingredients such as fennel, artichoke and brown algae are known for their purifying effects on the body. This cleansing program is excellent before a change of seasons.” – Dr Kamlen Pillay

Probiotics

Rawbiotics Gut Correct

“Rawbiotics Gut Correct are live fermented probiotics in a liquid form, containing 14 strains and multiple classes of live beneficial bacteria, fermented at body temperature and well absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract. Gut health is linked to lung health, boosting immunity to COVID-19. There has never been a more important reason to optimize digestive health.” – Dr Debbie Norval

Energy and vitality

Green Vibrance

“The Vibrant Health Green Vibrance is a veggie-tasting green powder that contains over 60 micronutrient ingredients, including probiotics, antioxidants, and all the vegetable and fruit extracts you’re supposed to eat, but don’t get enough of. I can’t start my day without it, and I mix it with my Tailorblend powder.” – Dr Riekie Smit

Essential fatty acids

SOLAL Omega-All

This supplement contains all three forms of omega-3 – DHA, EPA and ALA. These forms of omega-3s help to maintain heart, brain, joint, eye, and immune health. A must-have supplement for healthy functioning of the body. – Longevity Editorial

Multivitamins

Centrum Complete

“The Centrum Complete supplements are easily available. There are different versions for certain age groups and for more physically demanding periods.” – Dr Liza Jordan

Enzymes

Amipro Digestizymes

“This supplement is an advanced plant-based enzyme formula that aids in digestion and supports healthy digestive function. It contains high-activity plant enzymes with lactase.” – Dr. Anushka Reddy.

Hair, skin and nails

AIMega/CalciAIM

“AIMega contains essential fatty acids that help to restore energy, reduce cravings, support hormonal health, and soften and smooth skin. However, the body can’t manufacture EFAs Omega 3, 6 and 9; we need to consume them. CalciAIM contains significant amounts of calcium, nutrients including magnesium, zinc, copper, vitamins D, A and C. Vitamin D is a key nutrient for glowing, nourished skin. It reduces wrinkles and makes your skin soft, strong and smooth.” – Tanya Lopes

Dental and gum health

Metagenics Bone Builder

Metagenics Bone Builder contains calcium. Calcium, along with phosphorus, plays a vital role in oral health, and both of these minerals can help to maintain healthy teeth and gums. – Longevity Editorial

Immune support

1. ImmunoVance (MNI)

“This product contains a blend of immune-boosting ingredients, as well as the much-needed vitamins A, C, D and E, and also zinc and selenium – everything your body needs to fight infections, from bacteria or viruses.” – Dr Riekie Smit

2. Zinplex Tablets

“The combination of the zinc picolinate and selenium amino acid chelate in Zinplex assists in boosting the immune system, and helps to normalize the hormonal system.” – Dr Janine Olivier

3. Viral Choice

“For acute infections, a double dose is almost immediately effective. It’s also a good choice for long-term daily use.” – Dr Liza Jordan

NON-INVASIVE TREATMENTS

Dry or dehydrated skin

1. ZO Skin Health Facial Peel

“This medical facial can be done monthly. It’s tailored to the client’s needs and has clinically proven results.” – Dr Nicole Kanaris

2. Skinboosting

“Replacing lost HA (hyaluronic acid) in the skin’s dermis by injecting specifically formulated injectable hyaluronic acid products will plump skin and visibly hydrate it.” – Dr Cara Duminy

Dull skin tone

Dermaceutic Milk Peel

“This is a treatment for the appearance of fine lines, dull complexion, and loss of tone. With a minimum of four peels at two to four-week intervals, it restores a radiant complexion.” – Dr Nicolette Landman

Fine lines and wrinkles

1. Mini Fraxel

“A prejuvenation treatment to maintain youthfulness of the skin, it replaces 5% of the collagen at a time. Helps fine lines and wrinkles.” – Dr Ean Smit

2. Fractional Laser

“Fractional Laser uses controlled beams of laser to create heated channels deep into the dermis of the skin, stimulating the development of new collagen in these lasered channels, and resulting in improvement in fine lines and wrinkles. The treatment may need to be repeated up to three times a year for a full effect.” – Dr Melanie Lambrechts

3. Dermatrix – Thermo Mechanical Stimulation

“Microneedling, combined with RF technology. Skin is visibly smoother and firmer, with a healthy glow.” – Dr Chris Giezing

Eye bags

1. Thermage Eye Treatment

“Thermage uses monopolar radiofrequency to tighten loose skin and superficial fat in the face. It works well around the eye area, and there is a dedicated treatment tip for the eyes. It is loved by Hollywood celebs, especially because no recovery period is needed. The treatment takes just under an hour, but results improve over the next few months. Recommended to repeat every one to three years.” – Dr Riekie Smit

2. Hyper-dilute Radiesse Filler

“Radiesse is a filler that contains calcium, encouraging the formation of collagen production in the skin. Its white color may also have the added benefit of reducing dark circles around the eyes, like an under-the-skin “concealer”. HA (hyaluronic acid) fillers are also used around the eyes, but we have found that, in some patients, due to hyaluronic acid’s hydrophilic properties, the treatment may not be as effective in the long run.” – Dr Anushka Reddy

3. Tixel

“An exciting, novel treatment for thermal fractional skin rejuvenation, powered by thermo-mechanical action (TMA), it uses heat to activate multiple effects, from non-surgical eye-lifting to acne scar treatment, as well as overall skin rejuvenation and pigmentation management. This versatile option is an ideal addition to an aesthetic patient’s journey, to maximize results of other aesthetic treatments.” – Dr Deepa Parbhoo

Thinned lips

Restylane Kysse

“A beautiful, natural improvement in lip definition and volume, with an added improvement in the fine lines around the lips.” – Dr Ra’eesah Essop

Facial sagging

1. Ulthera/UTIMS

“Focused ultrasound energy is used to create a thermal effect that lifts and tightens the skin, without the need for surgery.” – Dr Farheen Ghoor

2. BTL Exilis Radiofrequency

“During an Exilis treatment, precisely controlled radiofrequency (RF) energy is used to gently heat the deeper layers of the skin, causing fat cells to shrink and the skin to contract, stimulating new collagen production in the process. There is no downtime. An immediate tightening is visible, as well as an improvement over time. Six to 10 sessions are needed.” – Dr Riana van Gerve

Stubborn fat pockets

1. Ceccarelli Fat Lyposis

“This procedure involves injecting a solution that effectively breaks down fat deposits naturally. It’s a safe and quick procedure done in minimum time, with little downtime, depending on the area treated.” – Dr Jan Nel

2. Meso OX PPC Localized Adiposity Mesotherapy

“The formula unites two products with specific functions. Several small injections introduce the active ingredients into the fat cells – phosphatidylcholine and sodium deoxycholate, responsible for breaking down stubborn localized fat pockets. You can combine this with Meso Ox Slimming, which helps to transport the fat and facilitate elimination.” – Dr Janine Olivier

3. CoolSculpting

“This procedure causes a 14-20% reduction in the fat pocket in correctly selected patients.” – Dr Izolda Heydenrych

Cellulite

VelaShape

“VelaShape is a non-surgical shaping procedure that uses suction, massage and infrared light. It’s recommended for stubborn fat pockets and unwanted cellulite. As it’s not a slimming treatment, it won’t help with weight loss – unless a controlled diet is followed.” – Dr Nicole Kanaris

Unwanted hair

1. Soprano Ice (3D)

“The Soprano Ice Laser enables us to provide customized treatments for clients, to ensure a pain-free, hair-free result. Not only does it work on all skin types, but it also works on tanned skin. It’s the safest and most effective laser of its kind, providing better and longer-lasting results than any other hair-removal method available.” – Dr Kamlen Pillay

2. Syneron eLase Hair Reduction Laser

“The combination of radiofrequency and diode laser ensures a safe procedure for all skin types. Over bigger treatment areas, the Motif function is used, which offers a complete pain-free experience when the chest, back, legs or upper-bikini area is treated. It has a high satisfaction rate – clients would start with one area and end up opting for additional areas, due to visible results. This treatment can safely be performed at an aesthetic practice, where the practitioner and staff adhere to the guidelines of safe practice.” – Dr Aniali Aucamp-Nel

DENTAL HEALTH

Crooked teeth

Invisible braces

“Correcting teeth and jaw alignment results in balanced teeth which function better, and facilitate easier maintenance and daily cleaning, but also enhances the smile and boosts one’s self-esteem.” – Dr Deepti Naranbhai

Chipped or broken teeth

Porcelain or ceramic veneers

“Ceramic veneers are the best long-term solution, as they are strong and durable, and also stain-resistant. They also offer the most aesthetic outcome.” – Dr Zak Schabort

Tooth stains and discoloration

Scale and polish (clean), and teeth whitening

“Tooth stains are easily removed during a scale and polish treatment, and discoloration can be resolved with teeth whitening, provided all teeth and gum tissue are in good health.” – Dr Firdaus Ismail and Dr Riaz Hoosen

INNOVATIONS IN AESTHETIC SURGICAL TREATMENT

TREATMENT 1: Masked Eye Treatment by Laserderm

“Treatments to improve the appearance of the eye area have long been a focus for many individuals, but with the wearing of face masks, this demand has only increased. Combinations of treatments to varying degrees may be required to achieve the refreshed, bright-eyed look that is so much sought-after.”

“Injectables, various devices and AccuTite treatments are used as per the individual patient’s budget and requirements. AccuTite delivers precision heating to small and delicate areas of the face and body, with the science and safety recognized in the Radiofrequency Assisted Lipolysis (RFAL) family of technologies. Patients who need precision fat reduction or skin contraction now have a treatment that can be done under local anesthesia, in an office setting, in less than 20 minutes, without excisional surgery.” – Mazanne van Staden

TREATMENT 2: Eyelight 360: Eyelid Rejuvenation

“Eyelight 360 is a holistic, three-dimensional approach to restoration of the eyes. The technique rejuvenates and volumizes the periorbital area as a complete unit, for harmonious results. This is in contrast to previous surgical techniques that relied on a one-dimensional approach of only removing sagging eyelid skin, which often left patients looking more hollow and skeletonized.”

“The procedure uses five techniques that work in synergy: blepharoplasty eyelid surgery to remove excess upper eyelid skin; fat grafts precisely placed to stimulate myomodulation (strengthening of the deeper facial muscles), and restoration of periorbital volume and contours; ADSC (adipose-derived stem cells), in the form of nano fat, for regeneration of the delicate periorbital skin; CO2RE Fractional Co2 Laser Skin Resurfacing; and muscle-relaxing injections.”

“EyeLight360 creates a complete periorbital rejuvenation and uplifting effect, replenishing youthful contours while improving the quality of the skin. As stem cells are nature’s way of regenerating new cells in targeted areas, the results are noticeable in a firmer and more youthful appearance of the eyes.” – Dr Nerina Wilkinson

TREATMENT 3: Teosyal Puresense Redensity 2

“Teosyal Redensity 2 is a unique combination of cross-linked and non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, and a dermal restructuring complex of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and amino acids, restoring lost volume, while also rejuvenating the skin. The product is not hydrophilic, which means no swelling and minimal downtime. It is perfectly suited to the thin and sensitive skin around the eyes or tear trough area. It is designed to address fine lines, dark circles and deep hollows under the eyes.” – Dr Debbie Norval