There are so many body lotions, scrubs, and devices displayed on the beauty shelves that claim to do things that they simply can’t. So, what can we do about our body? One thing that is possible is smoothing out texture.
Common skin issues combined with the cooler months can wreak havoc with the skin on our body. Not to mention the fact that most of us don’t take as much care with it compared to the skin on our faces. Let’s get into the groove of taking care of our bodies, starting with feeling smooth and sexy.
These purple, white or red bumps on the upper arms, thighs and bottom are caused by a build-up of keratin in hair follicles. They’re annoying but harmless, and can be made worse by too-hot showers, fragranced products and abrasive scrubs. Instead, use a mild acid exfoliator a couple of times a week to remove dead cells and discourage blockages.
- Paula’s Choice Skin Revealing Body Lotion ($46) is a 10 per cent glycolic acid chemical exfoliant cream you can use every day without washing off
- Jurlique Smoothing Body Exfoliating Gel ($41.90). A natural alternative, it contains walnut shells and herbal antioxidants, which lift away dead skin cells.
Our hands are heavily exposed to UV and pollution on the daily and get nowhere near the amount of skincare attention as our faces do. We know prevention beats cure, so any time you apply facial sun care, rub the remainder on the back of your hands, too.
The unique formula in Mesoestetic Mesoprotech Melon 130 Pigment Control SPF 50+ ($89.95) boasts powerful protection against sun damage and includes ingredients that prevent the appearance of future sunspots and premature ageing. Just before bed, remember to use a hand cream — one that’s packed with brightening ingredients is best. Try Gallinée Hand Cream ($23).
Nothing beats body brushing for all-over smoothing. Yes, It may seem intense to drag dry bristles over your skin, but it’s extremely effective and eco-friendly.
Take two minutes before jumping in the shower to work the EcoTools Dry Body Brush ($6.93) in firm strokes up limbs, across shoulders and clockwise over your stomach. Even after one session you’ll get a circulation and energy boost, and by three you’ll be silky-soft and radiant
That dry, greyish tinge is a combination of dead cells and dehydration, and tends to be more noticeable on deeper skin tones. As long as you’re not sensitive, a chunky scrub is the most effective way to shift dullness.
Pick one that contains nourishing oils so the skin you reveal is supple and glowing. The L’Occitane Almond Crunchy Muesli Scrub ($52.76) contains nourishing almond oil, so it buffs the skin without drying it out further.
A few switches can help banish breakouts. Avoid letting sweat and bacteria build up by wearing natural fabrics when it’s warm and wash clothes regularly, especially sportswear. Always shower after exercise and try swapping body oils for water-based lotions.
A couple of times a week try a deep cleaning pore product with a salicylic acid like Paula’s Choice Weightless Body Treatment with 2% BHA ($46).
Those tiger stripes are as common as cellulite and can be just as tricky to get rid of. But there are a few clever ingredients out there that can help even out their texture.
Stretch marks usually need collagen-boosting products. Gentle but still effective is centella asiatica, which is a collagen and elastic-promoting ingredient found in Clarins Body Partner Stretch Mark Expert ($98), which has plumping moisturisers for a silky finish. It’s a long-term commitment, but worth it!
Text: Bauer Syndication