Aging Backwards Tuesday Tips #51: By a Nose

Your nose isn't just for breathing - it's the focal point of your face and some people take great pains to change theirs. Up until recently, undergoing rhinoplasty or a "nose job" was the only way to really change the look of your nose to any significant degree. Rhinoplasty can make a large nose smaller, a too-small nose larger, straighten a crooked nose, remove a bump and correct breathing problems. These days, though, there are less invasive methods for reshaping a nose, including the use of injectables.

Nosy Tips:

1) Use makeup. The quickest and easiest way to give the illusion of a slimmer, wider, smaller, larger or straighter nose is to use bronzer or blusher and highlighter to contour. For a nose that's too wide, contour it by brushing bronzer down each side of the nose, starting just below the inner eyebrows and ending at the tip. Add a line of highlighter down the center of the nose. Blend for a natural look. For a nose that's too thin, reverse the procedure - brush bronzer down the center of the nose and highlight on the outsides. Always remember to blend.

2) Consider injections. If you're concerned about a bump or you want your nose to look straighter, you can see your doctor for injections of such products as Restylane, Juvederm or Radiesse, to name a few. The doctor injects the filler and then manipulates it to contour the nose while you're wide awake and, in most cases, you can give your opinion throughout the process.

3) Keep pores clean. Your nose is part of the face's T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), which can typically be more oily than your cheeks. One of my favorite products for removing dirt and built-up oil from my nose is Biore's Deep Cleansing Pore Strips. All you have to do is cleanse your nose, leave it wet and apply the strip. Wait for the strip to dry (10 to 15 minutes) and peel off. You'll be surprised when you see what comes off with the strip. Biore

4) Use saline. Keeping your nasal passages irrigated with saline solution has been shown to be effective in treating and preventing allergy symptoms and sinus infections. Some over-the-counter nasal sprays can contain additives, so you may want to make your own solution using Kosher salt or pickling salt and purified water. You can use a bulb syringe such as the type used for infants for the irrigation. As always, check with your doctor before performing any home remedies.

5) Research rhinoplasty. If you are considering a "nose job," make sure to do your research. You want to look for a board-certified plastic surgeon and ask lots of questions to ensure you understand the procedure, the recovery and the expected result. One of my "secrets" for choosing a plastic surgeon is to look for one whose side hobby is art. I ask the surgeon if they have ever done any art and I even ask to see some of their work.

Paying attention to the focal point of your face - your nose - will help you put your best face forward.