Post-winter, the skin on the body can seem more sluggish, holding more puffiness and water. “We can’t all afford the time to go to a spa, but there’s a real need for people nowadays to unwind and relax,” says beauty expert Fiona Brackenbury. That’s why we think now’s the perfect time to spring into action just in time for brighter weather ahead.
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Boost circulation
At bedtime, try massaging in an essential oil-based night treatment to get the circulation in your skin going again. We love Essential Earth Remedies Absolut Rose Intense Healing Balm for Stressed Skin, R640 for 100ml – a fab new find that features a spa-like blend of healing oils like rosehip, grapeseed, roman chamomile, and sweet almond.
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Try a mini moisture-boosting ritual
To quickly eliminate bumps and flakiness, we suggest you try a skin-smoothing sugar-in-oil body exfoliator. Some of our spring-time faves include Rain Biologie Manketti and Starflower Body Scrub, R195 for 100g, with rose-and-jasmine scented sugar crystals.
If your skin’s quite dry, swap your shower gel for oil, such as the best-selling L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil, R345 for 250ml, which sinks into the skin so it’s easier to dress afterwards; or for even drier, eczema-prone types, try rubbing in a small amount of new Johnson’s Cotton Touch Oil, R54,99 for 200ml. It’s marketed towards babies and toddlers, but it doesn’t include any nasties, like sulphates and dyes, that usually irritate the skin.
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Soften skin, fast
Skin that’s well-nourished and hydrated not only looks and feels ‘fit’ – it also helps reduce the appearance of cellulite. So lavish on a super-intensive body cream, whatever your budget. The ultimate ingredient to use is shea butter. For every day use, choose The Body Shop Nourishing Shea Butter, R195 for 200ml, and for those truly special times, try Sisley Soir de Lune Moiturizing Perfumed Body Cream, R1 560 for 150ml. It may be one of the most expensive body creams ever, but it’s a real treat.
ALSO SEE: How To Get Glowing Skin After Winter
Fake yourself firmer
A fast tan makes you look leaner in minutes, but if you’re not a regular self-tan user, don’t be put off. Follow the advice of tanning expert Nichola Joss, who is a huge fan of wash-off types. Using an instant, wash-off tanner means that, “…you can be tanned today, and pale again by tomorrow.” Skinny Tan Instant Tanner, R180 for 125ml, is our go-to.
By Beauty Editor, Martinique Stevens
