That fragile container we possess really requires a fair amount of maintenance. Taking some extra time each day to condition it will reward you with much healthier skin with a positive afterglow.

• Keep environmental pollutants from being absorbed into the skin with a good moisturizer that also acts as a skin barrier. Check the labels for those with as many natural ingredients as possible. Oils, such as Jojoba are a lubricant. They activate the formation of new skin cells, prevent wrinkles and help regulate moisture balance and act as a natural preservative.

• As always, give your skin a drink too. Those eight glasses of water a day your mom always told you to be sure to drink are essential to maintaining your skin's elasticity and suppleness. And don't count coffee or any of the caffeinated sodas as part of the eight glasses because caffeine is dehydrating. The water you choose can be sparkling water, mineral or straight from the tap. Keep a liter-size bottle close at hand, or simply drink a glass or two with your meals, and a few in between.

• The skin on your legs, arms and torso deserves as much attention as the skin on your face. The majority of soaps and shower-gels on the market are way too harsh for most skin types and overdry or strip the skin. Exfoliate the skin with conditioning and skin smoothing agents to nourish and replenish the natural oils.