Skincare for your body: what makes sense?

Body serums, retinol lotions and sprays against back acne: in Knack Weekend, Dr Griet Voet shares her insights on the growing body care market. According to her, the skin of the whole body deserves attention at every stage of life, but a routine does not need to be complicated: cleanse, moisturise and protect against UV in the morning, and cleanse and moisturise again in the evening.

Using face products on the body is no problem; the other way round calls for caution, because body products are often richer or harsher. Back acne is harder to treat, and she advises against viral remedies from social media: if complaints persist, professional help is better.

She also rejects the idea of fighting sweat odour with a glycolic acid toner. Good hygiene and a suitable deodorant are the basis; beyond that, there are medical options.

• Keep your body routine simple: gentle cleansing, moisturising and UV protection.

• Do not simply use body products on your face.

• For stubborn back acne: seek professional help rather than social media tricks.

• Against sweat odour, hygiene with a good deodorant works better than glycolic acid.

Want to know more? Read about Acne at Clinique Dermatologie Gent.