THE so-called "non-knife facelift" has been around for quite a few year now. The CACI method uses electrotherapy to lift and tone facial muscles; some reports say that's how Cliff Richard stays looking so young.

Now from the same stable comes Futur-Tec, a skin regeneration system developed by CACI International which combines laser, micro-current, ultrasound and vacuum.

The Futur-Tec laser can be used to tackle wrinkles, spots, blemishes, to stimulate the production of collagen, and to aid lymphatic drainage and sluggish circulation. It can also be backed up with a traditional CACI treatment to re-educate the muscles.

Julie Greenwood, manageress of the beauty salon at Saks in Darlington, is already a big fan. "It leaves skin looking wonderful," she says. "It stimulates the production of collagen, which means skin stays looking younger longer, and the laser heals any imperfections that are already there."

A session starts with a full consultation about the client's general state of health and the client is asked what are the main areas of concern. "It's important that we know about the whole person," says Julie. "Health and beauty are linked, which is why a lifestyle consultation is given - to rebalance the inner body and advise on diet exercise, etcetera. The basics cost you nothing."

Where you might need a little help is in slowing down the ageing process and helping to regenerate the skin. And while a good skin cleansing routine is a must, dirt often finds its way deep into the pores.

Futur-Tec helps deal with the deep-down congestion. "You'd be amazed what comes out when I use ultrasound to deep cleanse," says Julie. (It's the human equivalent of the Kirby house cleaner demonstration, apparently.) This stage of the treatment is particularly useful for people who suffer from congested, spotty backs. After cleansing, Futur-Tec also exfoliates, hydrates and heals problem areas.

As well as acne, Futur-Tec was developed to tackle face and body imperfections such as wrinkles and cellulite. It is non-invasive and doesn't hurt - you just feel a bit of heat as the laser is used to help heal and regenerate the skin.

For the anti-ageing facial laser, microcurrent, ultrasound and vacuum are combined to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, and soften deep lines and wrinkles.

The amazing laser can also be combined with the vacuum to crack down on cellulite by stimulating lymphatic drainage and sluggish circulation, expelling toxins and breaking down fatty deposits. There are also treatments for deep wrinkles, stretch marks, scar tissue, pigmentation, blemishes and sun damaged hands.

In fact, Futur-Tec treats just about every skin problem you can think of, and is a brilliant antidote to late nights. After 24 hours the skin looks plumped up and positively glowing, so it's also useful for someone who wants to look great for a special occasion. It can also be used in conjunction with CACI, which will lift and tone the skin after deep cleansing.

An anti-ageing facial lasts an hour and costs £55, cellulite treatment £55, deep wrinkle treatment £25, back congestion £25, stretchmarks/scar tissue £25, acne/blemish/skin pigmentation £25, aged hand treatment £25. To make an appointment for a consultation, phone Saks Hair and Beauty on (01325) 481525, or visit the salon at 29-29A Blackwellgate, Darlington.