For a society to function certain rules must apply, particularly in a teeming metropolis such as Hong Kong. A certain sociability is expected: refraining from spitting in shopping malls and turning off mobile phones in the cinema, for example, are great rules of thumb for building a better world.
Less obvious, but just as important for maintaining peaceful relations with the city's other denizens, is learning to conceal your emotions in public. That is, not telling the guy opposite you on the MTR that his clothes are ghastly and he smells like a gym bag that's been left in the sun.
To facilitate a frictionless glide through life, it is imperative we present the correct visage in public, even when provoked - if only to avoid being smacked on the nose. To do this, we must strive to control how we are perceived by others. This is not always easy, but it can be achieved by employing the skills of a thespian or, better yet, a beautician.
Botox is one viable solution. Not only will it keep you looking young, but it leaves your face unable to express extreme emotions. Why is this useful I hear you ask? Well, for a start it makes it easy to suppress that look of horror when your wife or girlfriend asks you what you think of her new, gaudy frock.
'Botox is actually a natural purified protein that relaxes the muscles. Wrinkles are smoother, creating a rejuvenated and youthful appearance,' says Jacqueline Lau, manager of medi-spa Face Magic Haven in Central. Lau says about 30 per cent of her Botox clients are male. They come in for treatments in the area between the eyes, the forehead and their crow's feet. The effect usually lasts for four to six months. Procedures take up to 20 minutes and Face Magic's prices start from $2,800 (for inquiries, call 2524 6565).
If sticking a needle into your face doesn't appeal (who can blame you?), a safer, less intimidating option is the chemical peel. 'A chemical peel is mainly to remove any dead skin cells on the surface, so you have a brighter complexion. A peel won't lessen wrinkles like Botox because it works mainly on the texture of the skin,' says Lau.
