Get Your Body Ready for Summer by Lisa Benest M.D.

t’s almost time to shed those winter woolies and expose your skin to summer sunshine.   Are you and your skin ready?  Most of us can’t go straight from parkas to poolside – we need a little help getting our bodies ready for short sleeves, bare legs and bathing suits!  Here are a few simple procedures you can do to show off your body at its best this summer.

Dry Skin
Winter is harsh on skin, and nothing looks worse in that pretty spring dress than dry, cracked skin.  A full body exfoliation will get rid of that dead skin and get the fresh glow of spring.  Pay special attention to feet, knees and elbows, and any other trouble spots for your body.  But remember – your facial skin is more sensitive than your arms and legs, so don’t use the same product on your whole body.

You can also help your body deal with dry skin from the inside out!  Keep skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water every day.  Also, foods rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids – such as fish or fish oils – will help keep your skin glowing with health.

Breakouts on Chest and Back
Heavy winter clothing – or even your layered workout clothing – traps sweat and oil, allowing it to mix with dead skin and bacteria in your pores, forming pimples.  This might look bad, but it’s not hard to handle.  A medicated body wash, with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, will help kill bacteria and unclog pores.  Or treat yourself to a peel, which will not only help with pimples, but also any residual redness and scarring.

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