In the past, a good Turkish bathhouse performed the job. Lufa sponges do a fair job in your own bath.

Hammacher Schlemmer in their Gift Supplement offers "The Dermatologist's Microdermabrasion Vacuum System." It uses 'crystal' powder, but doesn't specify what it is. "The vacuum system draws the old cells and powder away and deposits them in a sealed chamber that can be disposed after four treatments. Comfort control knob allows complete control over four sensitivity levels. Produces healthier, revitalized-looking skin without salon appointments."

The things one learns by reading the piles of catalogues that come in the mail as Christmas approaches. Can't do without one! Only $149.95; four extra cartridges $24.95.

Personally, I am intrigued by "The Mechanical Core Muscle Trainer"- only $1,999.95 (order by Dec. 10 for Christmas delivery).