Rub-a-dub, dub

The body Shop, black olive and argan oil scrub. Photo / Babiche Martens

A rub down is envigorating and good for you. Exfoliated skin looks fresher and better absorbs moisturisers, so if you're starting to bare your legs and arms keep them in tip-top condition.

Think of the bending down and round in the shower to rub your elbows, knees and feet as a little light exercise before breakfast. Use a loofah or massage glove to work down your limbs and get your circulation going.

There's plenty of exfoliants out there (or you can make your own with a little oil and sea salt), so adding their use to your beauty routine a couple of times a week is no real trouble. You'll get silkier skin in return and fake tan will adhere more smoothly.

If you follow exfoliation by rubbing a little oil or body lotion along your shins you'll really be ready to step out for summer. Or choose an exfoliant with moisturising properties for a two-in-one treatment.

Many exfoliants contain polyethylene, little particles of plastic so micro-sized they can pass through our water treatment facilities and eventually end up in the ocean.

A doctoral student who flagged this is advocating more research be done on polyethylene's long-term effects on the environment.

I've made a personal decision to avoid polyethylene - not because I know if it's causing harm or not - but on the basis it's one additive we could easily do without, with plenty of natural alternatives available.

If you start checking body and facial scrub labels, you'll be surprised how many brands - across the price ranges - contain it.

1. Evolu Exfoliation Body Polish 200ml, $41

This botanical gel smells great, thanks to lavender, eucalyptus and menthol. It's brown and speckled with black bits that I became obsessed with seeing disappear down the plughole. They're crushed kiwifruit seeds which, with ground walnuts, provide the exfoliation which leaves skin feeling satin smooth. (From selected department stores, pharmacies, gift and health food stores. evolu.co.nz)

2. Roger & Gallet Shiso Smoothing Exfoliation Shower Gel 150ml, $19

Shiso is an addition to this French range which has a host of fragrances to appeal to everyone. This one is delicate, like the polyethylene exfoliating particles which seemed too micro to do much.
(Selected department stores and pharmacies).

3. Sukin Body Scrub 200ml, $13.99

Micro particles of bamboo extract and walnut shells are in this fresh, light cream from an Australian natural skincare range, along with moisturising aloe vera, sesame and rosehip oil. (From selected Farmers, pharmacies and health stores. Stockists Ph 0800 118311, sukinorganics.com)