Perfect your back for spring fashions

For back troubles, it’s often out of sight, out of mind. But as warmer weather rapidly approaches, back-baring dresses and tops are coming out of the woodwork. Even if you haven’t been hitting the gym or moisturizing daily, there are still some quick fixes out there for blemished skin. Here are some tips on how employ these fixes and rock that that new backless dress. Keep your hair off your back. Constantly letting your long tresses hang down can prevent your upper back from getting sun, and your hair’s natural oils will clog pores. Invest in a loofah on a stick. They are sold at any home goods store or even Walmart, and are invaluable when it comes to scrubbing those hard-to-reach places on your back.

Use self-tanner. Melanoma is real, and the effects of UV rays are undeniable. Plus, this ensures that your skin will be evenly coated and free from sunburn. Whether you use self-tanner, natural sunlight, or elect to stay inside, applying lotion liberally on a regular basis helps combat dry skin that hot weather invariably brings. Work your back muscles. Easy exercises that work your delts, lats, and lower back include planks, reverse sit-ups, and pull-downs. A few weeks to a month of doing three sets of 15 apiece, four times a week should tone you up in time for beach season. Drinking lots of water keeps you hydrated and always helps flush out impurities to clear up skin.

Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate. A coconut scrub from Bath and Body Works is especially good at sloughing off old skin, giving you a radiant glow and sweet scent in the process. Studies show that drinking tea and spreading lemon juice on your skin helps protect you against skin cancer, removes dark circles under your eyes, and fades freckles.

Make sure your tops and dresses fit. The best way to look fierce and feel great is by knowing your clothes fit you well. Check out fashions that reveal the parts of your back you like best. For instance, you could get a top that’s solid in the front but has a sheer back. If you want to accentuate your upper back, get boat-neck shirts with a deep V cut in the back. Look for shirts or dresses with cutouts in places with which you feel comfortable. Wearing a shawl with backless clothing can help cover your upper back while exposing your lower back.