Each category was evaluated according to the following 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 300 reviews from approximately 30 industry professionals. Not all of the 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. Please note that while the product section provides both the local average price and online shopping sites, the treatment and cosmetic surgery sections provide only a local industry-averaged price. Each medical professional who took part in this survey can be contacted for further treatment information on request.

Best In Aging Beauty Survey

Best Moisturizer

1. Neostrata Bionic Face Cream

“Tried and trusted for many years, NeoStrata Bionic Face Cream is an emollient, advanced anti-ageing cream that provides intense hydration and smoother skin without irritation, while reducing redness. If you struggle with dry, sensitive skin, NeoStrata’s Bionic Face Cream is the answer.”  – Dr Janine Olivier

This gentle, high-strength anti-aging facial cream has 12 % Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA), helping to moisturize skin, boost brightness, and reduce wrinkles and fine lines. Additionally, the Bionic Acid forms a water-binding matrix to attract & retain moisture to maximize anti-aging benefits.

2. Filorga Skin Absolute Day

“Pure white marshmallow-textured cream that not only offers anti-aging treatment but also DNA protection. It works interestingly with light exposure that is transformed into energy for our skin cells. I am addicted to this one.” – Dr Riekie Smit

Filorga Skin Absolute Day contains enzymes that, once activated by daylight, help stimulate cellular DNA repair mechanisms and convert UV and infrared energy into cellular energy. The presence of hyaluronic acid provides deep hydration and a skin-plumping effect, whilst the product’s white sapphire extract boosts immediate radiance and evens out appearance

3. Lamelle Dermaheal Ultra Renewal Cream

“This product has both retinol and growth factors in it, as well as powerful antioxidants, making it an excellent and affordable all-round” – Dr Cara Duminy

Lamelle Dermaheal Ultra Renewal Cream is an advanced night cream that stimulates tissue regeneration and collagen production for more youthful skin.

Body moisturiser

Vitasure Ultra Moisturiser

“Product contains cetamacrogol and urea for optimum hydration and has added Vitamin C & E for potent antioxidant effects.” – Dr Imraan Jhetam

Vitasure Ultra Moisturiser contains an incredibly nourishing formula, perfect for limbs, where dry, flaky skin tends to be problematic.

Hand cream

Eucerin Urea Repair Plus 5% Hand cream

It’s common for our hands to age much faster than other parts of our body because they are so frequently exposed to things like the sun and washing detergents.

This strips the skin of its protective covering and leaves it dry and vulnerable. Eucerin Urea Repair Plus 5% Hand cream‘s main ingredient is Urea, an intensive skin hydrator and exfoliator. Urea is naturally found in our skin and slowly depletes with age, which means supplementation through a good moisturiser helps protect and strengthen your skin a lot. 

Sunscreen

Heliocare 360

“High protection sunscreen with Polypodium Leucotomas for added antioxidant protection from UV damage.” – Dr
Imraan Jhetam

Heliocare 360 is a broad-spectrum face sun cream with Fernblock+, specific filters, and repairing actives and antioxidants, working to protect against 4 types of radiation whilst neutralizing and repairing sun damage. The sunscreen is also perfect for oily or acne-prone skin, as its mattifying and seborrregulating dual action actives result in an instant matte finish.

Exfoliator

Avene Akerat 30

“A potent chemical exfoliator with dual exfoliants of salicylic acid and lactic.” – Dr Imraan Jhetam

Cleansers

Dermalogica Cleansing Gel Foaming cleanser

“Foams well. Removes makeup. All skin types.”- Mrs Sam Divaris

Dermalogica Cleansing Gel Foaming Cleanser gently removes impurities without disrupting your skin’s natural moisture balance.

Face mask

Environ Intense Revival Mask 

“This masque has a unique combination of alpha hydroxy acids that stimulate growth factors, which are important for regeneration of skin tissue and collagen stimulation. Results in firmer, smoother, more hydrated skin. Used nightly not just as a mask, but as a night cream, this mask improves uneven skin tone and promotes natural skin hydration.” – Dr Nerina Wilkinson

Serums

1. Biomedical Emporium Dark Spot Corrector

“Theory behind the product and combats pigmentation. non-sticky.” – Mrs Sam Divaris

2. RegimA Techno 5 Serum

 

“This serum is an all in 1 which focuses on skin resurfacing using a combination of enzymes.”

“It includes anti-inflammatories, antioxidants, anti-free radicals, and anti-ageing ingredients. It’s a skin restructuring and exfoliation, plus brightening effects, all in one package. – Mrs Tzvia Hermann

3. Elizabeth Arden Advanced Ceramide Capsules Daily Youth Restoring Serum

“Love the single-dose capsules; it feels nourishing but absorbs well. Great spreadability leaves the skin feeling supple.” – Ms Shelene Shaer

The Elizabeth Arden Advanced Ceramide Capsules Daily Youth Restoring Serum adds to the skin’s natural barrier lipids to reverse visible damage and strengthens skin before damage occurs

Eye cream

1. SkinCeuticals AGE Eye Complex

“SkinCeuticals A.G.E EYE Complex has been proven through multiple scientific studies to provide visible benefits around the eye area, and this unique treatment provides three dimensions of results for: Bags and puffiness, Dark circles, dermal-epidermal junction thinning, and tackling A.G.E or Advanced Glycation End-products.” – Dr Kamlen Pillay

2. Matriskin Eye Perimeter 360 serum

“This eye serum delivers extreme hydration and rejuvenation to the delicate eyelid skin. The result is improved fine lines, dark circles, and eyelid puffiness. The combination of active ingredients combats the effects of free radicals and stimulates the formation of healthy collagen.” – Dr Nerina Wilkinson

3. Neostrata Skin Active Intensive Eye Therapy

“The Neostrata Skin Active Intensive Eye Therapy works – you will see a difference. On the costly side +/- R1030.00. Targets puffiness and crow’s feet around the eye area. Recommended for mature sun-damaged skin, but also for those with early signs of ageing. Not to be used when pregnant or breastfeeding.” – Dr Nicolette Landman

Shampoo

1. Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo & Conditioner

“Because of the very dry South African climate, and the fact that I straighten my hair a lot – my hair is very dry. In this case, I found that the one product set that has really helped my hair repair is the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo & Conditioner combo.”

“It conditions the hair with antioxidant-rich argan oil, Vitamins A and E, and moisture-attracting red algae. It is also sulfate-free, phosphate-free, and paraben-free.”

Not only will the effects and benefits on your hair blow you away, but the memorable scent will definitely get you addicted. Overall, these products make you feel like you have just had a really expensive hair treatment at a salon. – Ms Jessica Vicente

2. L’Oréal Professional Mythic Oil Shampoo and Conditioner

“Moisturizing but doesn’t overload the hair; suitable in all seasons.” – Ms Shelene Shaer

3. Oneka Shampoo & Conditioner Angelica & Lavender (Hydrating)

“This amazing non-toxic, biodegradable range is Ph balanced.” – Mrs Marguerite Doig-Gander

Foundation

Oxygenetix

“Oxygenetix is a breathable foundation with soothing properties for post-procedure and inflamed skin like eczema.” – Dr Imraan Jhetam

Eyebrow pencil

MAC Pearl Glide Liners and Brushes

“This nifty pencil is a precise, mechanical, self-sharpening pencil that is sweat- and water-resistant and can last for 12 hours without smudging. What a bonus.” – Dr Anushka Reddy

Mascara

L’Oréal Miss Manga Rock Mascara“Amazing length with an almost false lash look.” – Dr Anjana Bhana

Lips

1. Luscious Lips instant lip plumper

“This 3-in-1 nutri-plumping lip balm is an ultra-nourishing oil that comforts and plumps dry lips to enhance their natural colour and brightness. It also has a patented NCTF moisturising cocktail that revitalises the radiance of lips as well.” – Dr Deepa Parbhoo

2. Colorescience Lip Shine SPF 35

“The Colorescience Lip Shine is a high-shine lip gloss with broad-spectrum sun protection. Non-sticky, naturally coloured and chemical-free.” – Dr Heather Blaylock

3. Dermalogica Nightly Lip Treatment

“Anti-aging lip and perioral treatment smooths the appearance of laugh and feather lines while you sleep. This rich overnight formula firms, hydrates, and restores skin on and around the lips”

• The Indian Gentian Extract firms the skin by increasing epidermal thickness, reducing fragility and smoothing feather lines; 
• The sesame Seed extract increases hydration to boost volume 
• Apple Fruit Extract provides a saccharide complex to enhance hydration and smoothness, as well as decrease appearance of lines and wrinkles; and
• The Shea butter restores barrier function. 

“The treatment also includes volumizing technology that increases tissue volume to reduce lines.”  – Dr Heather Blaylock

Best in Aging Supplements

Digestive health

Metagenics UltraFlora 

Metagenics UltraFlora boosts digestive health by encouraging a healthy gut, and it also boosts your immune system.

Detox and cleansing

LARGAVITA NADplus + Complex

“The 1st nutraceutical that has a wide range of anti ageing benefits. Contains 19 highly active potent ingredients that offer detox and antioxidant benefits.” – Dr Deepa Parbhoo

Probiotics

Entiro Tablets

“Entiro™ probiotic covers your entire stomach, restoring, maintaining and balancing intestinal flora.”

“When the balance between good and bad stomach flora is disturbed by factors such as stress, poor diet, travel, illness, antibiotic use etc. An imbalance can result in various diseases including diarrhea, bloating, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome or a weakened immune system.”

“A unique property Entiro™ exhibits is the continuous production of powerful antimicrobial peptides that kill intestinal pathogen. This is achieved pore formation in the pathogen causing cellular contents to leak out, effectively killing it.” – Dr Kamlen Pillay

Energy and vitality

Vitathion

Vita-thion contains ATP for sustained natural energy, vitamin B1, which is required for the release of energy from glucose, and the immune-boosting Vitamin C.  

Essential fatty acids

Solgar Double Strength Omega 3

“This formulation provides a natural, concentrated source of the essential Omega 3 fatty acids EPA and DHA from deep-sea, cold-water fish. EPA and DHA support cardiovascular, joint and metabolic health.”

“The fish oil in this formulation is tested for optimum purity. It undergoes molecular distillation to remove mercury.” – Dr Imraan Jhetam

Multivitamins

Pharmaton

With the combination of ginseng, vitamins and other minerals, Pharmaton helps to combat daily fatigue while ensuring general health and well-being. 

Enzymes

Bio Strath

“Bio–Strath is good for families, wellness and health. Bio-Strath has been (and remains) the natural choice of nutritional supplementation for families of all ages, from babies right through to the elderly. It is a nutritional Swiss supplement that is 100% natural and provides more than 60 nutrients our bodies require daily, in a perfect, easily absorbable form. Easily absorbed nutrients that include vitamins, minerals, building substances and amino acids.” – Dr Kamlen Pillay

Hair, skin and nails

Pro-Active Liquid Collagen

“Improves skin elasticity and hydration and enhances the growth of hair and nails. It contains a very high dose of hydrolysed collagen, which has the best proven absorption in the gut. I especially recommend its use in conjunction with collagen-stimulating treatments such as micro-needling and absorbable threads. The new “Gold Standard” in collagen supplements.” – Dr Riana van Gerve

Dental and gum health

Longevity product suggestion: Patrick Holford Immune C®

“Vitamin C is really good for healthy gums and teeth, but your teeth and gums do well if your body is well. There is no substitute for good health! There is not one isolated thing or supplement you can specifically take to enhance your teeth. Overall health and wellness = healthy teeth and gums.” – Dr Sam Thandar

NON-INVASIVE TREATMENTS

Dry or dehydrated skin

1. Mesotherapy 

“Dry and dehydrated skin needs replenishment of its hyaluronic acid stores. Nothing rehydrates and nourishes skin as injections (mesotherapy) with a good quality vitamin and HA injectable product. This is one of my favourite treatments and gives radiance, hydration, anti-aging prevention and collagen rebuilding.” – Dr Riekie Smit

“Mesotherapy pushes anti-aging technology deep into the skin. This includes growth factors, peptides (switches on collagen production) and hyaluronic acid that gives instant hydration to the skin by pulling in water.” – Dr Janine Olivier

2. Hyaluronic Acid Skin Boosters

“This treatment can be compared to putting a powerful moisturiser just underneath your skin rather than on top. It provides long lasting, visible hydration and improvement in skin brightness and texture.” – Dr Cara Duminy

Thinned lips

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers 

“Thinning lips are caused by decreased collagen and hyaluronic acid production in the delicate skin of the lips. Small amounts of judiciously placed hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvéderm Volbella or Juvéderm Volift can restore this volume loss, resulting in a natural, refreshed look.” – Dr Riana van Gerve

Fine lines and wrinkles

1. Filorga Bio Nutri Lift

“By far the most impressive treatment for fine lines and wrinkles; adds hydration, stimulates elastin and collagen production. Hydrates, fills wrinkles, and helps prevent ageing.” – Dr Michelle Westcott

2. PRP (platelet rich plasma) microinjections ‘Vampire Facial’

“Natural, regenerative medicine with natural release of growth factors and can be easily used in combination with toxin and fillers to smooth lines even further.” – Dr Anjana Bhana

3. Fractional Laser

“Fractionated laser makes tiny holes in the skin. These micro-injuries are healed with the formation of new collagen, with an improvement in tissue quality and a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.” – Dr Natasha Chapman

Eye bags

Dermal fillers

“Under-eye bags are a common concern. In the past, the only treatment was surgical excision. Today, however, we understand that the eyebags are not the primary problem. Due to loss of volume and support of the lower eyelid, the supporting muscle relaxes, and the eyelid bags become more prominent. The non-surgical injection of dermal fillers under the muscle supplies support to strengthen the muscle and volume to improve a smooth transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek.” – Dr Nerina Wilkinson

Dull skin tone

Dermaquest SkinBrite Peel

“A mild to medium peel that’s gentle but effective; it leaves the skin brighter.” – Ms Shelene Shaer

Facial sagging

Thread lifts

“This is a short procedure that can be done in your doctor’s room. You can expect a quick recovery with limited downtime.” – Dr Imraan Jhetam

Cellulite

1. Velashape

“No matter if you are a plus-size mamma or slender Sally – Cellulite is a real thing. The Velashape might just be your new best friend if you are trying to get rid of the orange peel look. It uses infrared light to shape the body and reduce fat layers. A combination of infrared therapy and mechanical massage increases lymphatic drainage and takes that “swollen look” away while reducing the actual size of the fat cells and fat pockets. It can be used on the thighs, back of the thighs, buttocks, tummy, and love handles. The great thing is that it is cheaper than invasive treatments and it’s FDA-approved.” Ms Jessica Vicente

2. A combination of: Accent Radio Frequency, Near Infrared Skin Tightening, and Coolifitng cellulite treatments

Combination treatments are always best. From this cellulite-aiding trio, the: 

• Radio frequency treats deep dermal layers of the skin and remodels the skin architecture. 
• Near infrared works the surface layers of the skin. 
• Coolifitng gun, also known as the beauty gun, shoots a strong CO2 flow onto the skin, combining an extremely high concentration of atomized actives at a very high pressure and low temperature. – Mrs Tzvia Hermann

LPG Endermology treatment

“Pain-free and effective. Visible results. The manipulation of the skin treats cellulite by increasing circulation and by pulling excess water and toxins from the body.” Dr Nicolette Landman

Unwanted hair

Diode laser 

“Safe and effective laser for all skin types.” Dr Imraan Jhetam

Vaginal Rejuvenation

CO2 Laser 

Vaginal rejuvenation, also known as Feminine Rejuvenation, restores or enhances the cosmetic appearance of the vagina, as well as certain functional aspects such as increased sexual satisfaction. 

Life processes such as childbirth, weight fluctuations and hormonal changes may overstretch or damage vaginal tissue; damage the pelvic floor or alter the mucosal tone of the vaginal wall. These physiological changes can lead to conditions such as stress urinary incontinence, vaginal atrophy, vaginal dryness, or recurring infections, and negatively affects a woman’s quality of life and self-confidence. 

This rejuvenation method is pain free with no down time. The laser vaginal tightening procedure and urinary incontinence treatment is carried out with a specialised probe attached to a carbon dioxide laser, and this probe is gently inserted into the vagina to induce skin / mucosal tightening. The laser shots / pulses are transmitted to the inner skin, which cause the skin to tighten. This procedure can be combined with spreading a Platelet Rich Plasma solution into and around the treated areas for an enhanced result. – Dr Kamlen Pillay)

Sun spots

LED Dermalux Phototherapy

“LED Dermalux Phototherapy accelerates rejuvenation of the skin. It boosts the collagen and elastin production. It helps produce vitamin D and provides energy and serotonin. It also increases the circulation, reduces redness and stimulates the healing of blemishes, sun spots and acne scarring by accelerating our skin’s natural repair processes.” – Mrs Tzvia Hermann)

Crooked teeth

Invisalign

“A sequence of aligners which fit over the teeth that not only move the teeth into their ideal positions, but are clear and almost invisible. Invisalign means you can change your smile without substantial modification to the biological tooth structure, or your lifestyle. – Dr Sam Thander

Chipped or broken teeth

Diamineers

“This is most recent advancement in cosmetic dentistry. The big difference between Diamineers and the previously used treatment, E.Max is that the amount of strength you in such a small area in comparison is far more. Not to mention that the flexibility is astonishing.”

“Although Diamineers are rising in popularity, we still offer E.Max to our patients as an option – I’ve been using it for many years, with many happy smiles. In fact, Diamineers would not work well on dark or discoloured teeth because of its extreme translucency. The more colour particles used in lithium disilicate (which both E.Max and Diamineers have in common), the weaker the material. For this reason, and the addition of more opalescence to the formula, the teeth under a diamineer would need to be of a whiter shade already.” – Dr Zak Schabort

Tooth stains and discolouration

E Max Veneers

“The most camouflaging material on the market with the highest translucency which still gives a natural result.” – Dr Zak Schabort

INNOVATION IN AESTHETIC SURGICAL TREATMENTS

Breast augmentation by means of ergonomic Silicone implants with/or without fat grafting

“Ergonomic implants deliver very natural results. By adding fat grafting to the procedure one can obtain the required breast size with a smaller implant.” – Dr Nicolette Landman

DIPOLASER FACELIFT: The “natural” stem-cell scarless facelift

A youthful face is a face with beautiful soft curves created by perfectly placed volume and radiant skin. And to achieve a totally rejuvenating effect, it is of utmost importance to correct both volume and skin quality. I see so many patients who have undergone a technically beautiful facelift; however, if the volume and skin quality have not been addressed, I believe we have failed these patients in delivering a refreshed, youthful result. 

For this reason, the Adipolaser technique is one of my top procedures as it allows for a scar-less facelift that rejuvenates and regenerates the facial tissues, so that we can achieve the most natural results. 

This procedure utilises four techniques that complement each other during one surgical session. This includes: Fat grafts, Adipose Derived Stem Cells (ADSC) in the form of Nano fat, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), and CO2RE fractional CO2 laser resurfacing. 

Unlike a normal facelift, where flaccid skin is excised to create artificial firmness, an Adipolaser lift is performed solely by injection and laser. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic in a day clinic. 

It involves:

1. Harvesting fat from a part of the body with abundant fat deposits, purified and divided into fat grafts and nanofat. 
2. Injecting the fat grafts precisely into the deeper layers of the face to improve the contours and create an uplifting effect.
3. Layering the nanofat superficially under the skin in order to harness the potential of the rich stem cells and improve the quality of the skin. Stem cells are nature’s way of regenerating new cells in targeted areas; that is why the results give a noticeable improvement in helping achieve a firmer and more youthful appearance, which improves over months to years. T

Using the CO2RE fractional laser. Essentially, this final step vaporises and removes the dull upper layers of the skin, stimulates new collagen, and enhances the survival of the fat injections by using a direct photo-thermal and photo-biostimulation effect. This leaves the targeted area of skin feeling tighter and looking rejuvenated. (Dr Nerina Wilkinson) 

Silhouette Lift

The SILHOUETTE SOFT® non-surgical Face Lift is a technological innovation combining two actions: lifting and regenerating. 

The unique product can offer women and men what no treatment has ever provided in such a simple way: a redefined face, restored volume and reduced wrinkles by means of a 60-minute treatment at their doctor’s, for an immediate and natural result lasting up to 18 months. 

SILHOUETTE SOFT® is based on special suture threads used to lift sagging skin on the neck and face. Often referred to as “the non-surgical facelift”, the minimally invasive procedure is less time-consuming than a traditional facelift and does not require sedation or a hospital stay. 

SILHOUETTE SOFT®: 

1. Requires no general anaesthesia or sedation. It only requires a local anaesthetic. 
2. Has virtually no recovery or downtime is required.
3. Corrects mid and lower-face sagging in the brow, cheeks, jowls, or neck and smooths prematurely aging skin
4. Will give you very little swelling, bruising, and far less discomfort compared to a traditional surgical facelift.
5. Will have additional lifting effects achieved over time as the sutures in the skin stimulate collagen production for an even more and longer-lasting lifted effect. 

Overall, it achieves a natural look. – Dr Kamlen Pillay

A consultation is needed prior to treatment to discuss areas of concern where the cost will be determined.

HEALTH SPAS

The Saxon Spa: Saxon Himalayan Signature Journey

“This has to be the crème de la crème of all spas in Johannesburg at the moment. The Saxon Spa makes me feel like I have stepped into a luxurious spa in Europe. It sums up perfection for me. There is a perfect combination of African chic and pure tranquillity. The spa has many signature treatments that you can choose from, and let me not even get started on the delicious spa cuisine. I really can’t put it all into words – you really need to experience it for yourself.”  – Jessica Vicente

“This treatment combines a full body scrub which exfoliates the skin and improves blood circulation while a deep granite massage loosens tense muscles. The treatment ends with a cold Rose Quartz crystal that relieves and heals muscular inflammation.” – Anushka Reddy

Four Seasons Spa, Westcliff: African Potato Manicure & Pedicure

“A holistic approach where non-toxic products are used mindfully.” – Marguerite Doig-Gander

The Laser Beautique: Cinderella or Prince Charming Near Infrared Facial

The Cinderella facials work on two levels: it is a results-driven anti-aging treatment that will allow you to feel pampered as well. 

One of my favourite aspects about it is that the pampering final step is a brilliant Alginate mask that gets mixed while you lie on the bed. When it’s applied, it really feels like you are being lifted to the clouds. 

This near-infrared massage uses light to heal, tighten, tone, and lift the skin – it basically feels like a hot stone massage with extremely detoxifying properties. Additionally, the aesthetician will combine micro-needling with cool-lifting, a peel or micro-needling with RF in your facial – it all depends on your specific concerns and requirements.

For example, if your crow’s feet are what upsets you the most, the periorbital handpiece will be used, and the treatment will be focused around ironing out those lines. – Tzvia Hermann) 

Africology in Rosebank Biologique Repercharge rejuvenating facial

“Beautiful setting, well-trained staff, and excellent facial treatment.” – Shelene Shaer

Aloe Day Spa Lephalale Limpopo: Wand of Heaven Treatment

This Signature treatment is all about YOU. Your skin, your body, your mind, and your Escape. They treat you from top to toe and send you home with a memory to last forever. The Aloe Scalp Sensation, The Aloe Skin Saver Facial Treatment, The Aloe Rejuvenating Back Polish and Self-Heating Mask, The Aloe Balm Back Massage. 

It is rejuvenation and recharging at its ultimate. In the heart of Lephalale, this true innovator and market leader in spa experiences has risen. 

It uses aloe, which is indigenous to the area and has so many health benefits, to create a signature treatment that is used head to toe and suitable for both men and women who are looking for an opportunity to thoroughly de-stress.  – Marisa Dimitriadis