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Shaping up for summer

Sarah O'Meara
16/ 5/2008

The eyes have it

Sparkling eyes are very attractive but, according to Kevin Lewis, former president of the College of Optometrists, they can be the first thing to suffer as the weather gets warmer.

He says: "Hayfever can make eyes tired and red. So if you're suffering, go to the pharmacy and get over-the-counter drops. If you're on any other medication, make sure you ask the advice of the pharmacist.

"Many people also find that excess light makes their eyes water and itch. If you are `photo sensitive' then make sure you get good protection from sunglasses.

"Look out for spectacles that have a complete UV block. Often cheaper frames don't have any block at all, which means your pupils will open up under the lens and let in ultraviolet rays, doing them more harm than good.

"Sunglasses are very important because the sun's rays can do long term damage to the eyes, causing everything from burnt eyelids to small tumours.

"Dry eyes are another problem in hotter weather conditions. If you're suffering, get artificial tears from the pharmacist to keep them from drying out."

For more information visit college-optometrists.org

Get under your skin

Nina Goad of the British Association of Dermatologists explains that a few simple additions to your routine, could iron out many summer skin problems.

"If you suffer from dry skin and want to get it silky smooth in time for summer, the key is to moisturise often - not just once a day," she advises.

"Steer well clear of harsh cleansing products containing alcohol which can strip the skin of its natural oils, so use a mild, hydrating cleanser instead.

"Swapping regular products for a pH-balanced, soap free cleanser followed by a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturiser will help to protect the barrier function of your skin.

"Oily and acne prone skin benefits from oil-free, non-comedogenic products, which means they won't block pores. If you suffer from spots, look out for products containing salicylic or azelaic acid, or benzoyl peroxide, which can help stop the blocked pores that lead to spots. These are available in products available from the chemist.

"Many people find tea tree oil helpful in combating problem skin. If this doesn't work after a couple of months, talk to your GP.

"Lastly, it's natural to want smooth skin in time for swimsuit season, but be careful. Exfoliation can actually damage the skin by removing its protective layer, so be gentle, and only exfoliate once a week," she adds.

For more information visit British Association of Dermatologists website, bad.org.uk

Tummy troubles

There's nothing worse than a pot belly when summer and its clinging and revealing fashions come around. But before you start daily stomach crunches, take note that your round tummy could be a health issue which is easy to solve.

"Although every person is different, there are some basic ideas to control bloating that are easy to follow," says nutrionist Dr Carrie Ruxton.

"Many people suffer from constipation and bloating because they're not getting exercise and not eating enough fibre. The gut needs fibre to keep it working efficiently. And exercise literally encourages food to move around the system. But be careful how you introduce fibre into your diet. Do it gradually so your body can get used to it and doesn't bloat," she says.

Over the last few years probiotic yogurts, containing `friendly bacteria' thought to encourage a healthy gut, have become very popular. But Carrie believes that maintaining a varied diet is probably the most effective way to get a flat, healthy stomach.

"Friendly bacteria can be helped by gradually increasing your intake of fruit and vegetables and then keeping the levels high. With summer approaching, we've got a fantastic range of seasonal produce here in Britain, including terrific berries."

Another source of a round tummy could be a high salt diet. "Lots of salt can lead to water retention and bloating," Carrie explains. "Constipation can also be caused by dehydration. So drink lots of water."

Swapping to wholegrains can also help, adds Carrie, by upping your fibre intake.

Lovely legs

Varicose veins are depressing at best, and completely confidence shattering at worst. But luckily getting them removed is no longer the long and painful process it once was.

According to cosmetic doctor Dr Robin Stones, member of the British Association of Cosmetic Doctors, you can be back at work the next day.

"In the old days, before the advent of special scanning, the surgery was hit and miss. Now, new techniques means we can investigate the problem more thoroughly and perform less invasive surgery.

"Often the patient will walk out the same day in compression stockings. In more extreme cases you may end up having the veins stripped out - but the recovery time is still only a week."

For more information please see the British Association of Cosmetic Doctors website, cosmeticdoctors.co.uk