Queen launches 5-step 'get sensitive skin ready for summer' plan
Queen's five pre-summer sensitive skin 'must-dos'1) Start NOW Start the routine below now to give yourself a good eight week head-start before summer really arrives. Not only does poor winter skin need time to get over its weeks of neglect but also it is better that you find a routine which works for you now rather than suffering an adverse reaction when you assault your skin two days before your holiday or that lovely summer wedding.2) Hair-removal - find a method that works for you NOW Hair removal can cause problems for the hardiest of skins so if you have sensitive skin do make sure you know which method is least likely to send your skin into overdrive. Shaving may be the best option as it is not too stressful for skin - before shaving, work up a good foam from a soap or other product you know does not cause your skin to react. Use Queen Soap or our Queen Shampoo (excellent as a body wash and works up a good foam for shaving).3) Gentle buffing Sensitive skin should not be subjected to harsh exfoliators but it is good to try and get rid of dead, dull skin. Even a soft flannel will do or, if you are feeling adventurous, a handful of oats (the type you get for porridge!). Moisten the oats and rub gently over your body. Yes, it is messy (you could wrap them in a muslin) but you can shower them off.4) Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise If you are not already doing so to keep winter dryness, flakiness and itching at bay, start moisturising NOW. After your morning shower, massage in as much lotion as you can, concentrating on dry, problem areas such as feet, elbows and shins. Let the lotion sink in before getting dressed. Try our luxurious Enriched Moisturising Lotion (actually developed in conjunction with salons for use after depilatory treatments such as waxing). Or, if applying body lotion is too much for you (we know, we know, when you're in a rush, it can be the last thing you have time for), use Queen Sensitive Skin Oil in the shower or bath. Add a few drops to your bath water or smooth over your body while the shower is still running - even after towel-drying (blotting is better), skin feels soft and moisturised.5) Pay attention to your feet Heels, ankles and even the tops of feet can look dry, scaly and generally rather unappealing after a winter of thick socks and boots. If your skin can tolerate a pumice stone, use it gently on those areas where skin is thick and dry. Afterwards, rub in a super-thick footcream or other cream for very dry skin.Queen Skln Cream or Seaside Cream are what you want here - they transform dry skin in just a few applications. Let the product sink in before dressing. Before you go to bed, massage in more cream so that it can work while you sleep. Ensure that you massage the cream into and around your nails to prepare them for nail varnish. Painting your toenails will give your feet an instant lift. Doing it ahead of time means you can take your time and make sure they look perfect. Choose a pale pink or neutral colour to avoid staining and to make removal or touch-ups easier. You're ready - sandals, skirts, shorts can come out now!