Conquering summer body woes

We believe that all bodies are beach bodies – not just the lean tanned ones you see on the cover of magazines. But having said that, we also recognise that many women struggle to make the most of summer because of body concerns holding them back. While there isn’t always a miracle cure, there are certain things you can do, and certain products you can use, to alleviate discomfort and boost confidence. We searched high and low for answers to the most common body concerns:

Sensitivity and eczema
Sensitive skins prone to dermatitis and eczema often experience flare ups in summer. Try to cover up when spending time outdoors – the sun can be very aggravating. Avoid perfumed body products and invest in good quality shower gels and body moisturisers that are designed for sensitive skin and free from irritants.

We recommend:

Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Ultra-Soothing Foaming Gel 500ml (R349.95) and Balm 200ml (R310.95)
This foaming gel soothes sensations of discomfort and irritation and helps biologically strengthen the skin barrier to prevent further discomfort. Enriched with soothing and purifying agents, the balm quickly stops itching and reduces the urge to scratch thanks to its anti-itching dermatological active ingredient PEA.

Cetaphil Restoraderm Skin Restoring Body Moisturiser (R275.95)
Formulated using ceramide technology, this lotion is clinically proven to deeply nourish and alleviate dryness and symptoms of atopic skin.

Epimax Oatmeal Lotion (R105.00)
A light, ultra-caring lotion that restores the compromised skin barrier, soothes and protects dry and sensitive skin and absorbs quickly without a greasy after-feel.

Eau Thermale Avène Thermal Water Spray (from R160.00)
This multi-purpose spray is soothing, anti-irritating and softening. It provides pure, natural relief for sensitive skin and is so gentle that it can even be used on children and babies.

Lush Dream Cream (R265.00)
Light, cooling and easily absorbed, the combination of calming chamomile, organic, extra virgin olive oil and creamy, Fair Trade, organic cocoa butter quickly soothes and softens. Free from synthetic ingredients and artificial ingredients, it’s safe and soothing for sensitive skins.

Cellulite
There is no product that can remove cellulite – trust us, if there was, the whole world would be using it. However, some products can help reduce the appearance of cellulite when used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle (think plenty of exercise and a healthy diet). Regular exfoliation and dry brushing will help increase blood flow to cellulite-prone areas. Always exfoliate in gentle circular motions. When dry brushing, brush upwards in long strokes towards your heart.

We recommend:

Bionike Defence Body ReduXCell Body Reshaping Booster (R295.00)
Designed to counter cellulite blemishes, this handy device has a 5-roller massaging applicator to help boost circulation. The ingredients have a strong lipolytic effect, helping to reduce stored fat and new fat build-up. With regular use it improves the look of dimpled skin.

Elancyl Slim Massage and Anti-Cellulite Concentrate Gel (R495.00) and Elancyl Slimming Design 2-in-1 Oil (R295.00)
Slim Massage has been developed in collaboration with a physiotherapist as a natural extension of the hand, making it easier to perform a roll massage correctly. Its secret: the combined action of the rollers which grip and roll the skin simultaneously while maintaining the ideal pressure for toning the skin and smoothing cellulite. Just three minutes a day is all it takes to see a visible difference.

The 2-in1 Oil is a breakthrough firming product with a dual action on cellulite and stretch marks. The aqueous phase (caffeine and ivy) reduces the appearance of cellulite, assist detoxification and re-sculpts the silhouette by strengthening the skin’s firmness and elasticity, while the oil phase (Camelina Oil) strengthens the skin’s elasticity and suppleness and helps reduce the appearance of early stretch marks.

Dr. Hauschka Lemongrass Body Oil (R395.00)
This beautifully scented body oil fortifies and firms the skin while the uplifting, refreshing scent of lemon peel and lemongrass extracts invigorate. Ideal for a firming, toning massage.

Nivea Q10 Plus Firming + Cellulite Gel Cream 200ml (R124.99)
With natural Lotus Extract and skin’s own L-Carnitine, this gel cream visibly reduces the appearance of cellulite (L-Carnitine has the ability to convert fat components into energy, which means the appearance of cellulite can be reduced over time).

Lush Easy Peeler Sugar Scrub (R78.50)
This deliciously-scented scrub contains uplifting citrus, natural exfoliators and moisturising butters. Buff over wet skin in the bath or shower to stimulate blood circulation.

Very dry skin
We usually associate dry skin with winter, but if you’re prone to very dry skin, it may follow you all year round. If your skin feels or looks dry despite using a body moisturiser, you may have a compromised barrier. Try gently exfoliating your body once a week to get rid of dry and dead skin cells, and be sure to moisturise with a hydrating body moisturiser at least once a day after your shower or bath. You may also want to take some omega 3 and 6 tablets, as these are known to help restore the skin’s barrier function.

We recommend:

Bionike ProXera Body Emulsion (R225.00)
This nourishing treatment for dry skin offers long-term moisturisation and alleviates itchiness and discomfort. Suitable for dry to extremely dry skin.

Nivea Repair & Care Body Lotion 400ml (R69.99)
Infused with a deep moisture serum, this body lotion offers up to 72 hours’ relief from dry and tight skin. It soothes rough, dry skin and instantly calms irritated areas after just one application.

Bramley Pink Blossom Body Butter (R16.99)
Instantly hydrating, this thick textured body butter provides soft and supple skin that feels pampered and cared for. Rich in vitamin E and Bio-Pharm oil, this intensive formulation will nourish and moisturise all skin types, whilst providing the protection your delicate skin requires.

Justine Tissue Oil 200ml (R199.00)
Justine’s improved Tissue Oil formula contains a trusted, superb blend of naturally derived oils, vitamins and essential fatty acids that help to improve the overall appearance of scars, stretch marks and sun damage in just 2 weeks, while helping the skin look and feel healthier.

Avène TriXera Nutri-Fluid Balm 400ml (R245.95)
If you experience sensitivity along with very dry skin, Avène is a great brand to turn to as their products are extremely nourishing whilst catering for even the most sensitive of skins. This balm restores, nourishes and soothes dry skin and it is suitable for the whole family. It is non-sticky with a fast absorbing texture.

Body acne
Body acne is not just limited to your teenage years – an increasing number of adults experience this pesky problem too. It is especially common among athletes or people who gym regularly, as sweat is a major culprit in acne on the back and shoulders. Remove sweaty clothing as soon as you are done exercising and take a shower straight away. Be sure to lather a gentle soap or fragrance-free shower gel all over the areas you usually experience breakouts to ensure bacteria is washed away. If your body acne is hormone-related, it’s best to consult your dermatologist.

We recommend:

Mineraline Clarify Spot Treatment Gel (R199.00)
This fast-acting spot treatment is formulated with salicylic acid, lactic acid, niacinamide (vitamin B3), and potassium azelaoyl diglycinate, which together slough off dead skin, unclog pores, soothe, and stimulate new skin to form. It helps reduce redness and swelling and contains hydrating aloe vera to soothe skin and avoid over-drying.

DermaCeutic Oil Reducing Mask 50ml (R1000)
If you struggle with breakouts on small areas of the body, we highly recommend applying a face mask designed to target breakouts, once a week after a shower. This powerful one from DermaCeutic removes dead cells and excess sebum, and purifies combination and oily skin. It is recommended for oily skin, and skin that is prone to acne.

OXY Cleansing Soap Bar (R13.95)
This affordable bar soap was designed for facial skin but it works wonders on the back too. It contains salicylic acid, which helps to unclog pores, washing away the dirt and impurities that cause blackheads. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects reduce redness and breakouts.

OXY Lotion 5 Benzoyl Peroxide (R64.95)
Apply directly to blemishes for speedy results. This treatment Lotion has an antibacterial effect while also suppressing sebum production and exfoliating to unclog pores and clear out blackheads and pimples.

Lamelle Clarity Body Spray (R410.00)
This spray is specially designed to be used on the back, neck and chest – an ideal support product for the management of non-facial problematic skin. It contains a concentrated version of the complex used in Lamelle’s Active Control but in a more convenient spray format. It also has anti-bacterial benefits without the risk of bacterial resistance. It shows remarkable results for both teens and adults.

Dry hands
We use our hands all day, so it’s no surprise they tend to get a little dry. Use a gentle hand wash when you wash your hands and be sure to moisturise often, especially after washing. Always wear protective rubber gloves when washing the dishes or doing laundry – detergents contain chemicals that will dry your skin out even further.

We recommend:

Bioderma Atoderm Ultra Repair Hand Cream 50ml (R119.95)
Restore your hands’ biological barrier function and strengthen the hydrolipidic film with this repairing treatment lotion. It feels rich and luxurious but absorbs without leaving a greasy residue on the skin.

Bionike ProXera Nourishing Hand Cream (R99.00)
Moisturises and protects dry and cracked skin on the hands thanks to the innovative “osmoprotector system”, which retains water on skin, forming a structure similar to that of a “plaster”. Restores the skin’s hydrolipid mantle, softens the hands and soothes the discomfort of extremely dry skin.

Mineraline Orange & Pomegranate Rich Moisturizing Hand Cream (R199.00)
This rich moisturising hand cream combines the therapeutic power of Dead Sea minerals with the amazing benefits of pomegranate and orange oils. Rich in vitamins E and B5, this hand cream fights the signs of oxidation caused by the sun’s rays, including discolouration, loss of elasticity, and fine lines. Frequent use will repair and protect your skin against the daily damage your hands encounter.

Excessive sweating
Sweating is completely normal, especially during summer. Keeping it under control with an effective anti-perspirant is a sure way to up your confidence. We always opt for products that don’t damage our clothing, so keep an eye out for a colour protection promise. If you sweat excessively, you may want to consider visiting a healthcare professional. Non-invasive treatments like Botox have proven very successful in blocking the secretion of the chemical that activates sweat glands, thereby minimising sweat.

We recommend:

NIVEA Black & White Invisible Silky Smooth Spray R32.99 (150ml), Roll-on R21.99 (50ml)
Formulated with special skin conditioners, the new Black & White Invisible Silky Smooth deodorant sets a new standard in caring for women’s underarm skin, especially after shaving. The caring ingredients make skin soft and smooth, plus it leaves no white marks on black clothing and reduces the appearance of yellow stains on white clothing.