7 Steps to Summer-Sensational Legs

Get your legs summer-ready with these essential steps.

POSTED BY ANNA GRAHAM

With summer around the corner, it's time to prep your legs for those warm, sunny days. Whether you flaunt them in shorts, skirts, or swimsuits, following a consistent beauty routine can help you achieve smooth, glowing, and sensational legs. Here are seven steps to get your legs summer-ready.

1. Exfoliation

Exfoliation is the first and foremost step to smooth, radiant legs. It helps remove dead skin cells, promoting a healthier appearance and preventing ingrown hairs. Use a gentle body scrub or exfoliating mitt in the shower. Focus on areas that tend to be rough, like the knees and ankles.

La Fragancia, a body care specialist in the UK, say exfoliating twice a week is ideal. This frequency keeps the skin clear without causing irritation. Additionally, it helps other products, like moisturizers and self-tanners, absorb better into the skin.

2. Moisturise with Body Butter

Hydration is key to maintaining soft and smooth legs. After exfoliation, it's crucial to lock in moisture. Body butter is thicker than regular lotion and provides intense hydration. Look for products with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and essential oils.

Applying body butter daily can significantly improve skin texture and elasticity. Massage it into your skin after your shower when your skin is still slightly damp to maximize absorption. Body butter can be helpful for people in the UK and in other countries that experience abrupt changes in weather during spring and summer. 

3. Shaving or Waxing

Don't worry, achieving a smooth, hair-free finish is easier than you think. Whether you prefer shaving or waxing, mastering the proper technique is within your reach. With a little practice, you'll be able to avoid irritation and achieve the best results.

Shaving

Use a sharp razor and a hydrating shaving gel or cream. Shave in the direction of hair growth to minimize razor burn and ingrown hairs. Shaving during or after a shower when your hair is softened can result in a closer shave.

Waxing

This method removes hair from the root, resulting in smoother skin for longer. Ensure your hair is long enough for the wax to grip, and consider doing it professionally to avoid mishaps.

4. Self-Tanning

A sun-kissed glow can enhance the appearance of your legs, making them look more toned and even. Self-tanners are a safe alternative to sunbathing, which can damage your skin.

Exfoliate your skin before applying self-tanner to ensure an even application. Choose a product that suits your skin tone and use it in circular motions to avoid streaks. Let the tanner dry completely before dressing to prevent staining your clothes.

5. Fitness and Toning

Exercise keeps you healthy and helps tone and sculpt your legs. Incorporate exercises like squats, lunges, leg presses, and calf raises into your fitness routine. These target key leg muscles, improving their shape and firmness. Don't forget to warm up before exercising and cool down afterwards to prevent injury.

Even simple activities like walking or cycling can contribute to more defined legs. Regular physical activity also boosts circulation, which can enhance the overall appearance of your skin.

6. Hydrate from Within

Healthy skin starts from the inside out. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain your skin's elasticity and reduces the appearance of cellulite. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day to keep your skin hydrated and flush out toxins.

Adding hydrating foods to your diet, such as cucumbers, oranges, and watermelon, can also help keep your skin supple and glowing.

7. Professional Treatments

Professional treatments like laser hair removal, body wraps, or lymphatic drainage massages can benefit those looking to go the extra mile. These treatments can address specific concerns such as stubborn hair, cellulite, and skin laxity. However, it's important to note that these treatments may not be suitable for everyone and can have potential risks. Consult a qualified professional to determine the best options for your skin type and goals.

Achieving summer-sensational legs involves a combination of proper skincare, regular exercise, and healthy hydration. Following these seven steps, you can enjoy smooth, toned, and radiant legs all season long. Start your routine now, and get ready to show off your gorgeous legs with confidence.

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