Emergency Repair

Over the winter months I played a game with my friends - we called it, "Count how many layers I'm wearing." I think you can guess the rules.

Slowly (very, very slowly) spring seems to have (almost) sprung, and the layers are being peeled away to reveal a me that isn't quite ready for my close-up. And based on the emails and texts from friends, a lot of us aren't quite ready to expose much more of ourselves any time soon.

If your own hair has been hidden under hats so long that you no longer remember its color; or if your lips are so chapped and elbows so rough they best resemble sandpaper, consider some of these quick seasonal repair tips.

1. Really deep condition your hair. Not a quick rinse, but one that takes a half hour or more. Better yet, raid the kitchen for some coconut oil and coat your hair from roots to ends (or avoid roots if your hair tends to be oily) and wrap your hair in plastic wrap for a couple of hours and let the oils really penetrate.
2. While you're at it, start to condition cuticles, heels, elbows and other body parts that aren't having their softest moments.
3. Take a good look in the mirror. How are your brows? Are they scraggly and overgrown, or do they still retain their shape? Spring for a professional shaping, or start to trim and shape them on your own.
4. Scrub. Not the sinks or counters, but your face. Try to find gentle, skin loving scrubs that rub away the layer of skin that might be looking dry and drab. Exfoliate and moisturize and then do it again.
5. Tinted lip balm. It is your friend. Use it.