While most of us have a routine to care for our facial skin, few consider that the skin on the rest of our bodies needs just as much help. Hands, in particular, are very prone to damage from the environment and day to day living, because the skin is fine and has no sebaceous glands. The answer is regular care.

Hands

Skin types vary, but as we age, many of us find that our hands actually make us look older than our faces do. This is probably because of years of neglect so before it's too late, start taking care of those hands.

The regular use of protective hand cream is essential. Most are oil in water emulsions, which contain substances that attract water and shield the skin from the harmful components in detergents and other household items. Some are water in oil emulsions, which act even more effectively against the detergents etc., but these are not so easily absorbed and can leave the skin feeling sticky and unpleasant.

Feet

Feet are probably abused even more than hands. In the winter, we force them into boots, man-made shoes and other footwear, which is either too tight or unsuited to the shape of our feet. They support our weight and sweat in central heating while freezing out on the cold pavements and they need routine care.

While feet should be regularly moisturised, at least once a week, they need a full pampering session. Soak them in warm water (not too hot) for at least ten minutes. Pat dry, then use a pumice stone or abrasive file especially for feet to remove as much hard skin as possible. Moisturise with cream, which is not too easily absorbed. If your feet are seriously dry and cracked, apply cream very thickly just before going to bed and cover with cotton socks.

Bodies

Daily moisturising after bathing or showering is essential, particularly if the body has been or will be exposed to the sun. Everyone has a favourite body lotion and the choice is immense, so we won't go into detail here.

It is sensible to wear a sunscreen, but don't be fooled into thinking that just because you are using SPF 15, you can stay out in the sun all day long without burning. Even the toughest skins will usually show some effects if exposed for long periods of time and fair-skinned people will still only be able to stay in direct sunlight for a short time without burning.

Certain areas of our skin are not as robust as others, usually those where there is little subcutaneous fat, such as upper chests, elbows, forearms and shins. Use a moisturiser here which is specially formulated for dry skin.

Like our feet, unless the skin is very dry, our bodies need to be exfoliated once a week. Use a shower gel with an exfoliant in it such as nut or fruit seed grains or a separate scrub with an enlivening scent. Follow with your favourite moisturiser your skin will feel fantastic.