Ask a beauty question

How can I get rid of the dry, flaky skin on my lips?
Keeping your lips soft and smooth can be a challenge during winter months. There are many lip exfoliating products on the market you can try. If you're looking for a quick and easy at-home trick, try using a toothbrush for a gentle scrub. Make sure the bristles are soft and use small circular motions to gently remove the layer of dead skin. Follow up with a super-nourishing lip product like Kiss My Face's Certified Organic Lip Repair (7g/$10), which contains shea butter.

I have dark patches on my face. Is there any way to remove them?
Dark patches are often the result of overexposure to the sun. Here are some things you can try to lighten them:
· Lightening products claim to reduce skin discoloration and even out skin tone. But, it may take several weeks of consistent use before results are visible. Try Dermalogica's Skin Brightening System ($150), a three-part kit that removes dead skin cells, diminishes dark spots and creates an even skin tone.
· Visit a dermatologist and inquire about professional treatments like laser resurfacing, light heat energy or microdermabrasion. For the lowdown on the latter technique and other cosmetic surgery options, read Flawless.
· A simple, short-term solution is to cover the spots with a cream concealer. Select a shade that's lighter than your skin tone and apply with a concealer brush (available at most beauty retailers) for an even appearance. Once it dries (about 30 seconds), apply foundation to the rest of your face. Finish up with a light dusting of powder.

I use hand cream throughout the day, but my cuticles are still ragged. What can I do?
Cuticles can be stubborn. When you don't have the luxury of a professional manicurist to keep them fit, try a conditioning cream, like Dermaglow Miracle Cuticle (10g/$10). Apply a healthy dose and massage your cuticles before bedtime. In a pinch, your favourite lip balm can work double-duty giving them an extra dose of moisture.

What's the best way to remove chin and upper-lip facial hair?
There are several ways to remove facial hair. The treatment you choose will reflect your pain threshold, budget and the type of results you seek.
· Depilatories are relatively painless and affordable but require regular upkeep. Results last for about five days. Be sure to read the directions carefully and apply a test patch before use.
· Waxing can be painful and expensive. Results vary based on hair type, but generally have a staying-power of two to six weeks. At-home hot wax kits are an option, but must be used with caution to avoid burns. First-timers should visit a professional first, to pick up take-home techniques.
· Electrolysis, light heat and laser hair removal are good choices if you want a long-term solution. These techniques disable each hair follicle. Pain levels vary—although some say laser hair removal is less painful than waxing. All three treatments are significantly more expensive than home solutions, because they require numerous visits to a trained professional.