When it comes to skin care many of us forget about our legs and yet these can be one of our driest areas, especially down the shin area. For those who are always busy, there are now several moisturising body washes on the market. You only have to use a little of these washes (about the same amount as toothpaste) and if used with a flannel or body puff you’ll be sloughing off dead skin cells and stimulating the circulation at the same time. Use daily and you’ll notice an improvement to your skin tone – especially those areas you usually forget to moisturise.
Once or twice a week use an exfoliator on damp skin. This will remove dead skin cells and lift off surface debris leaving skin satin smooth. Exfoliated skin absorbs moisturisers more effectively.
To complete the satin smooth effect, many women remove the hair on their legs, some just doing this to the lower leg. If you use a razor, any nicks or redness can be treated with witch hazel applied directly. Shaving needs to be repeated every few days. Depilatory creams last a little longer as they remove the hair from just below the skin’s surface.
For hassle free, longer lasting hair removal waxing is the answer and there are various kits to make the treatment clean and simple at home. Always ensure that the wax is at the right temperature to avoid burns, or use cool wax strips. Waxing lasts about four to six weeks.
Bare legs need to be protected from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays, so make it a habit to moisturise with a cream containing sun protection factor – the higher the factor the more protection.
For perfect pins exercise is the answer and walking – especially barefooted – is a great way to keep your legs and ankles in shape. But there’s no excuse for idleness while you’re sitting at a desk – simply cross your legs and rotate the upper ankle 20 times one way then the reverse. Then change legs. Whenever you’re waiting in a queue gently rise onto your toes and down again to tone those muscles.
If all this makes your legs feel tired, give them a boost with a refreshing gel (widely available) that’s easily absorbed and can be applied through tights or stockings to give an immediate sensation of lightness and wellbeing.
Sun protection
Always apply a sunscreen before going out into the sun – don’t wait ‘til you get to the beach as you’ll already have exposed your skin to harmful rays.
Apply to the naked body so you don’t miss bits like under a strap which might move and leave skin exposed.
Wear loose cotton clothing for maximum protection preferably with long sleeves covering the arms and long skirts or trousers to protect legs.
Keep out of the sun’s rays during the hours of eleven and three when they’re at their strongest.
Be careful when swimming – water reflects the sun’s rays and you can burn easily without realising it. Wear a t-shirt to protect your back and shoulders and apply a waterproof sunscreen, reapplying after you’ve dried yourself with a towel.
To avoid dehydration, sip plenty of water throughout the day and avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks that dehydrate the body.
