How facial discs help your complexion, and a fashion for fringes

Are you sure her fabulous skin isn't due to what happens after the holidays? January is, after all, the month when many people go (temporarily) mad for exercise, shock their bodies into (supposed) detoxes and condemn themselves to a month of temperance (alcohol wreaks havoc on the complexion, darling). Still, there has been quite a bit of buzz recently about Colbert MD Intensify Facial Discs (HK$496 for six; www.colbertmd.com) by Dr David A. Colbert of the New York Dermatology Group. They're essentially pads pre-soaked in bromelain, a protein found in pineapple stems; lactic acid, to exfoliate out impurities, wrinkles and hyper-pigmentation; and glucosamine, for hydration and plumping. Remember when everyone was all excited about microdermabrasion a few years ago? You don't? Well, it's the same idea. In fact, other brands offer a similar delivery system. Radical Skincare's Age-Defying Skin Exfoliating Pads (HK$860 for 60 pads; Joyce Beauty) use antioxidants from nightshade fruits such as acai and pomegranate with other clinically tested ingredients. From Hollywood, celeb skin expert Kate Somerville offers Clinic-To-Go Resurfacing Peel Pads (HK$440 for 16 pads; Lane Crawford), which come with lactic acid to slough off the bad stuff besides calming myrtle and sage leaf extracts, promising results within 28 days.

Er, don't quit your day job to become a trend forecaster. If you do a search for "fringe trend", you'll probably find an editorial claiming it to be a new fashion for every season. As proof, check out the sales for last season's fringed collections. Stella McCartney played with fringe and put innovative wave patterns on skirts, tops and dresses (originally HK$10,490 and up but now on sale everywhere). I'm hesitant to even lead you to water on this one as it can go so terribly wrong. Let's start well with a master such as Saint Laurent, whose Psych Rock collection for spring has a retro vibe with all sorts of fringed clothes and accessories in black leather or tan suede, from mini skirts (HK$18,900) to cat boots (HK$9,650). I shouldn't even have to say this, but this really isn't a head-to-toe look. BCBG offers stylish and more affordable options, including a tiered, fringed pencil skirt in faux black leather (HK$3,099 with free worldwide shipping; www.bcbgmaxazria.com). And keep an eye out for Valentino's 1970s-inspired suede skirts, coats and accessories featuring extra-long fringed hems, which have yet to hit Hong Kong boutiques (HK$49,000 and up; www.valentino.com). When you get dressed, though, think more high fashion in Milan or Paris than high noon in the Wild West.