Prepping Your Legs for Spring Just Got Easier

This week, temperatures are expected to reach 65 degrees, and while we can’t wait to break out our new suede miniskirts and denim midi lengths, the thought of exposing skin that has not seen the sun in months is, well, slightly terrifying. Before the panic sets in, remind yourself that you can in fact get your pasty legs back to their original glowing state, with the help of a few miracle products and advice from New York City dermatologist Elizabeth Hale, M.D.

“Throughout winter, skin severely dehydrates, but it’s our legs and feet that dry out the most due to poor circulation,” says Hale, who advises patients to start with a good exfoliation. “It’s important to slough off dead skin buildup,” either with a gentle scrub, sonic brush, or a moisturizer that contains an alpha hydroxy acid, like glycolic or lactic. “Be extra careful if scrubbing manually,” explains Hale, as dry skin may become inflamed if you don’t follow with a thick moisturizer. Hale suggests opting for a concentrated formula packed with ceramides, like CeraVe’s Moisturizing Lotion.

If you plan ahead and have some time before the big leg reveal, Hale recommends using a gradual self-tanner to camouflage discoloration or spider veins. While an overnight tanning formula is a great last-minute option, “start gradually so the color appears more naturally.” She also strongly advises against indoor tanning. It may be a fast solution for bronzed skin, but “it’s the worst thing you can do to your body, and just one session multiplies skin cancer risk by 20 percent,” notes Hale.

For a quick fix or a shiny, finishing touch, spritz on a hydrating oil, like argan or coconut, or something with shimmer, like Tom Ford’s new Soleil Body Oil. It’s guaranteed to transform any pale patches into Gisele-worthy, just-got-back-from-St. Barth’s limbs. Kiss your winter skin goodbye with these eight hydrating solutions for legs that need a little help.

 

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