Ever since Madonna admitted to having regular oxygen facials, the treatment has become very popular. No matter what you think of the Material Girl, you have to admit she’s aging pretty well. Unfuntunately the going rate is around $500 a treatment, so most of us can only dream about an oxygen facial. Never fear, there are less expensive alternatives out there.

I've been reading Nick Lane's book, Oxygen: The Molecule That Made The World. It's not about skin care per se, but there's a passage in the book that perfectly explains oxygen and the aging process --

We produce free radicals continuously inside every cell of our body as the cells respire. Most of these are 'mopped up' by antioxidant defences, which neutralize their effects. The trouble is that our defences are not perfect. A propoprtion of the free radials slip through the net and these can damage vital components of cells and tissues, such as DNA and proteins. Over a lifetime, the damage gradually accumulates until it finally overwhelms the ability of the body to maintain its integrity. This gradual deterioration is known as aging.

During the facial, a protein solution is poured into the machine and the client is then treated to a pure oxygen mist that is forced into the top layer of the skin. A collagen mask is place over the face to allow the oxygen to penetrate even more. For maximum benefit, a follow-up regimen of six or more treatments on a weekly basis is recommend -- a monthly treatment indefinitely.

If you're pocket is a little light, consider Philosophy's Oxygen Peel Kit. I've been using it for about a month now and it's working great. Once a week I use it to peel off that top layer of dead skin. Whatever product you're using will work better because it can penetrate faster and deeper.

If you do decide to go for the oxygen facial, keep in mind the effect is temporary--but do send before and after pics.