The office junk trip is coming up and you have hairy armpits, chipped nails and a bikini line that's travelling south. Don't take the risk. It's much more enjoyable to board a boat with confidence in summer by doing a little maritime maintenance beforehand.
Jade Chan Kwan-chung, co-founder of the Hong Kong-based skin care group Menthoderm, and its spa, the Skin Nursery in Central, says there is usually enough advance warning of a boat trip to get prepped.
'I would do a body scrub to slough off the dead skin so it looks smoother and more even,' Chan says. 'I would also apply body lotion after this as it is better absorbed after a scrub and keeps skin hydrated.'
If you don't want to mince about the bow with a towel around the waist, de-fluffing is a good way to go - but not on the eve of the trip, in case there is a rashy reaction. 'Two to three days before the trip, I would do a waxing - bikini, half leg and underarms,' Chan says.
Justine Grier, manager of the Beautiful Skin Centre salon and spa in Admiralty, takes a head-to-toe approach. Depending on how much advance notice there is, anyone can shine despite being exposed to the elements on a sweltering day, she says, suggesting a rehydrating facial with vitamin C. This is a great way to strengthen the skin against any unwanted pigmentation that may come with sun exposure. (Vitamin C is an antioxidant and helps prevent skin damage).
Then she recommends an infra-red sauna that heats the body, not the air. This is in contrast to a conventional sauna which heats the air and only superficially the skin. The infra-red heat penetrates the skin, causing the body to expel excess moisture, salt and subcutaneous fat. 'Also remember to body brush until the cows come home - think of it as an extension to brushing your teeth. And don't forget to moisturise, moisturise, moisturise. A healthy looking skin that is hydrated is far more attractive than dry, blotchy skin regardless of size, shape or cellulite.'