Don't take the weather with you

This is the hardest time of year to keep skin clear and bright, with freezing conditions outside and the dry atmosphere of centrally-heated homes.

"Constantly moving from one extreme to another can send our skin into overdrive and as people turn up the heating to full power in their homes, walking in from the freezing outdoors can be somewhat of a shock to the system," says Leeds-based skin specialist Peter Beard, of non-surgical cosmetic clinic Skin Genesis.

"For skin to look more youthful and radiant and to be on top form, you need to ensure that you are getting enough vitamin C, A and E. Eating citrus fruits will boost your vitamin C levels and restore the structure of the skin by boosting collagen production."

Vitamins can also help undo any damage caused by the sun's harmful UV rays

He adds: "Taking the time to run a gentle exfoliating glove across the face and body once to twice a week will ensure that those pesky dead cells are kept at bay. Investing in a quality daily exfoliating face wash will also have the desired effect."

For more tips, check out www.skingenesis.co.uk

Simple says that its Derma range of products developed especially for very dry, sensitive skin has seen an almost 30 per cent increase in sales since the start of this extreme cold snap – mothers have even been popping Simple Derma Hand Cream 3.79) into school bags. The range is suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive. Use Simple Derma Cream (from 2.19) around dry, chapped lips and spread a thick layer over areas prone to chapping.

STOP PRESS

Atomic Kitten Natasha Hamilton, pregnant with her third baby due in May, and Radio DJ mum Sara Cox, also pregnant, are fronting the My Selfish Hour, a campaign by Radox, encouraging women to have a little bit of "me time".

"We girls have enough to contend with – jobs, kids, family, partners, and friends – not to mention keeping on top of the housework. While I wouldn't swap any of it for the world (well maybe the housework) I sometimes need to 'Be Selfish' and spend a bit of time on me."

The Radox Selfish Sanctuary, a mobile spa will be in Sheffield at Barkers Pool on Friday and at Briggate in Leeds (with Natasha) on Saturday. Check www. be-selfish.co.uk for details.