Skin Softeners
Saturday 10th November 2007 by Elizabeth Richards
As air conditioning is abandoned for central heating – and hats, gloves and scarves take the place of frocks and smocks – this is the time of year when skin needs a helping hand to take it from freshly bathed to body beautiful. Wind and rain plus constant and extreme changes in temperature can cause skin to become dry, itchy and generally unhappy so bring your beauty regime up to speed with a moisture-boosting body oil.
The perfect base layer to your winter knits, a good body oil should be easy to apply and absolutely absorbent with no greasiness whatsoever. A few drops of a lightweight formula should be adequate for arms, legs and décolletage but for skin that is dry, easily stressed or routinely exposed to the elements, choose a richer formula to replenish moisture levels and add a sexy sheen.
Remember also to check the ingredients list: anything containing rosemary will have warming powers; choose blackthorn to treat stretchmarks; lavender is a natural de-stresser while fresh citrussy oils – lemon, grapefruit, bergamot – lift the spirits and focus the mind.
REN Moroccan Rose Otto Ultra Nourishing Body Oil, £32
This non-greasy formula contains rose otto oil – highly healing and super-luxurious – along with oils from jojoba, macadamia, rice germ and cranberry seed to restore softness and elasticity to the skin. Applied with a circular motion, it sinks in immediately and keeps you sweetly scented all day (or night).
Available at www.RenSkincare.com 
Nuxe Multi-Usage Dry Oil, £19.50
A best-selling hero product used by beauty editors and models worldwide, this clever oil is instantly absorbed and works to moisturise, nourish and regenerate skin on the body and face. It can even be used in small quantities to soften parched hair: truly a winter staple!
Available at www.BoutiquePerfumes.co.uk
Trilogy Aromatic Body Oil, £15.95
When skin is suffering from the drying effects of central heating, this delicate blend of oils is quickly absorbed to top up moisture levels and keep skin feeling comfortable while delivering an instant boost of vitamins, antioxidants and essential fatty acids. We love the pump bottle for easy and mess-free application!
Available at www.BootsBeautyBoutique.com
Laidbare 100% Natural Body Oil, £18
With oils of jojoba, rosehip and sunflower, this formula is high in skin-softening essential fatty acids and also contains evening primrose to smooth as well as almond oil to moisturise. It makes a great intensive moisturiser – whether used all over or simply on dry zones – but glides on smoothly and is easily absorbed.
Available at www.BathAndUnwind.com
Dr Hauschka Rosemary Body Oil, £16
If you tend to feel the cold, brighten up a freezing morning with a few drops of this ultra-warming body oil crammed with stimulating rosemary to bring life and vitality to chilly skin. It also works to focus the mind and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Apply after a bath or shower but never at night.
Available at www.DrHauschka.co.uk
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