Trick everyone into thinking that you're years younger than the figures on your birth certificate with our guide to delaying the ageing process

Water therapy

The subject of drinking eight glasses of water a day is a rather controversial one, although the evidence should help you decide. Skin is 90 per cent water, and without plenty more to keep levels boosted, can be unhealthy and dry.

Water also helps flush out toxins via the excretory system, which can otherwise build up and escape through pores, resulting in acne. When water is warm, it has the power to hydrate, revitalise, detoxify and oxygenate the skin. It also gets rid of blackheads and makes large pores smaller.

Keep a bottle on your desk at work and sip regularly. You'll be getting enough without even realising it.

Smoke screen

Nicotine can add years to your appearance, so if you want to appear younger, stub that cigarette out now. Cigarette smoke contains more than 4000 toxins, many of which are absorbed directly into the bloodstream and are transported by the blood into the skin.

Not only that, when we inhale, more than a trillion free radicals are produced in our lungs, which triggers an inflammatory response throughout the body. Smoking causes the blood vessels at the top layers of the skin to constrict, thickening and reducing oxygen levels in the blood, and collagen levels in the skin.

Finally, poor circulation ensures that a smokers skin is thinner, and there are usually visible signs of premature ageing.

About face

Through gentle massage we can help delay the ageing process. 'There's nothing more ageing than tense facial muscles,' says Noella Gabriel, director of treatments for Elemis. 'Facial muscles respond well to touch, so regular massage is really worthwhile.'

The stimulating effect of massage forces blood to rush to the skin's surface, promoting circulation, detoxification and relaxation. Afterwards, your complexion will appear clear and glowing and any puffiness will have magically deflated.

Avoid pulling the skin by massaging upwards, not downwards. Use a light touch and never dry hands. Use cleanser, a facial oil or moisturiser.

To diet for

While there aren't any particular foods or drinks that can promise eternal youth, antioxidants are vital for assisting skin repair and combating free-radicals.

• Antioxidants protect against the ageing effects of free radicals, which are by-products of pollution, smoke and UV light. Aim for five portions of fruit and vegetables per day
• An antioxidant supplement can help mop up free radicals. Look out for Vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, selenium and ingredients such as grape seed extract and green tea
• Antioxidant Vitamin C is essential for collagen production. Collagen is the structural protein that helps keep skin smooth and supple. Most brightly-coloured fruits and vegetables are rich sources
• Co-enzyme Q10 is also an antioxidant, normally manufactured by the body, but our ability to make it declines with age, so a supplement may be beneficial.

Root cause

Our hair can be a real secret weapon in the fight against ageing, and the right style and colour can knock off the years.

As we age, nature cruelly stops the production of melanin, the substance that gives hair its natural colour and softness. This can result in hair becoming coarser, or finer and thinner.

Softening layers and a fringe can both be flattering. The wrong colour can drain your complexion, while the perfect hue will make you look soft and fresh-faced. Lift and brighten skin by introducing some lighter tones to the hair that frames your face, or choose a shimmering semi-permanent for locks that look instantly healthier and more youthful.

Powder and paint

There comes a time when you need to leave experimenting with trendy cosmetics to the younger generation and discover your most flattering colours.

Former super model Helena Christensen once said: 'Natural always looks better than over-made-up, it makes you look younger, too.'

Tinted moisturiser will give skin a healthy glow and plump out any lines around the eyes. Avoid powder-based products which will settle in fine lines, while matte colours will make skin look flat. Instead, look for iridescent formulations to reflect the light and make skin glow.

If skin is shiny, blot with papers or a tissue to avoid adding to your base. Finally, avoid drying lip pencils. Use a lipstick or stain with moisturising properties.

The big chill

Prolonged stress can show on your face, resulting in tension, fine lines and wrinkles that can belie your true age.

It's important to take time out to relax. It may be a cliche, but if you feel good, you'll look radiant. Schedule some 'me time'. Pampering milk baths, abdominal breathing, face masks and spa treatments all promote the feel-good factor, which in turn gives a psychological boost and a feeling of vitality and wellbeing, all essential to staying youthful.