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This summer is one of our best in years, but too much time outdoors can play havoc with your hide. We've blatted on enough about sunblock (don't you dare forget it!), but sometimes prevention is not enough. If your skin is feeling a tad scaly it's time for some extra effort by way of the Viva version of R&R. That stands for rest (soothe your skin) and rehabilitation (after exfoliation apply some richly moisturising potions) and guarantees you'll look jetset not jetsam.
1 The Herb Farm Aloe Vera Rescue Gel $22.70
Smells great and soothes bites, scratches, spots and razor-burn the natural way. The Herb Farm's peppermint foot cream is also a treat for tired toes and the Palmerston North company has a new relaxation cream, to help massage your tension away, with lavender, marjoram and bergamot essential oils.
From www.herbfarm.co.nz and selected retailers.
2 Origins Calm to Your Senses Lavender and Vanilla Oil $60
For bath or body, this aromatic oil combines two truly calming scents. This oil absorbs particularly well and left my legs smooth. If I was lucky enough to be massaged with it, I'm sure the lavender aroma would see me drift off into a delicious doze.
From Smith & Caughey and selected Life pharmacies.
3 Pure Fiji Dilo Rescue Body Spray $43
This light, absorbent rehydrating lotion contains aloe and extracts from the dilo tree, the oil of which is used in the Pacific for skin conditioning. The tree grows at the edge of the nutrient-rich ocean and draws on its minerals. Good if you're suffering from dry, irritated, sunburned or shave-rubbed skin. Pure Fiji also makes the more enticingly scented Nourishing Exotic Oil, which is infused with pineapple and uses coconut oil as another effective ingredient.
For stockists www.purefiji.com or Ph 0800 7873 3454
4 Dr Hauschka Rose Body Oil $47
Smells divine. And your skin will come up roses. I applied it to soak in to dry legs overnight, though it's ideally for massage, and suitable even for a baby's delicate skin. The damask rose scent is designed to harmonise the senses and combined with the silky feel of jojoba oil, this took me some way to getting over my aversion to oils ahead of lotions.
From leading department stores and pharmacies.
5 Dermalogica Skin Rescue Set $70
Described as a lifeboat for stressed skin, this kit contains an exfoliant, a masque, a toner, a hydrating booster and an eye cream. Your face will love you for the rescue plan. The products are perfect as a pep-up course, great for travel or as an introduction to this usually pricier specialist skincare company.
From Dermalogica, Westfield Albany and selected beauty salons.
