We are all aware of the benefits of a beauty regime aimed at giving us radiant, youthful looking complexions. However, the real fact is that most women, particularly in the U.K, skimp when it comes to all over body care.

Although it doesn't suffer from the same amount of exposure to the elements that the skin on our faces has to put up with, the skin on our bodies is still under a considerable amount of stress and requires a body care regime which involves more than just an occasional slick of moisturiser to keep it in tip top condition.

Exfoliating once or twice a week is just as important for your body as it is for your face. Traditional methods of exfoliation involve gentle body scrubs exfoliating sponges and body cloths. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) which are derived from fruit acids, are usually found in creams and remove dead skin cells without the need for harsh scrubbing.

Exfoliating products have come along way since the simple loofah. You can now purchase exfoliating cream scrubs, exfoliating soap and exfoliating shower gels. These products are not necessarily expensive and do last a long time because you do not need to use them on a daily basis.

Back to Back

There are more oil producing glands on your back and shoulders than on any other part of your body, except your face, so they're more likely to suffer from blemishes. You can keep them at bay by exfoliating regularly.

Cellulite

Cellulite is nothing to do with being overweight. It can occur in even the slimmest of women. We are told it is completely natural but that does not mean we have to like it! According to the latest research one of the major causes is excess glucose, which comes from sugar in our diet. When glucose isn't used by the body for energy, it is stored in the form of fat, mostly in the skin around the hips, thighs and buttocks. You can help to combat cellulite by changes in your diet and exercise.

Anti-Cellulite Diet

To minimise the appearance of orange peel skin, try to eat slow burning carbohydrates, such as wholemeal pasta, rice and bread, rather than the fast burning carbohydrates, which are usually sweet. Drink plenty of water.

Anti-Cellulite Exercise

The best exercises to help reduce the appearance of cellulite are endurance activities, such as running, These exercises require a continuous, moderate effort for long periods to burn glucose and stored fats at the same time. Resistance work such as weights, which burn glucose through intense effort over a short period would also be beneficial.

Dry Skin

The skin on your body, especially the knees and elbows, is particularly prone to dryness. Your clothes actually soak up sebum, which protects your skin and keeps it supple and rubs away the top layer of skin cells. Therefore, regular moisturising is vital. If you have some old Xmas smellies that you have not used, get them out, you will feel the benefit!

Soft Legs

Your legs, particularly the shins, have the least oil producing glands so they are most susceptible to dryness. One answer is to use a moisturiser. Remember that the effects of moisturising actually builds up over time so the more frequently you do it, the smoother and softer the results.

Diet against dryness

If you suffer from dry skin it could be down to your diet. Make sure you are drinking enough water and getting enough essential fats, present in olive, corn and fish oils.