A Closer Look
The area behind the ears is easy to miss but easier to maintain. If unclean, the skin gets itchy and irritable. Rub the area gently with a towel after a shower.

The back of the neck too is easy to overlook. When neglected, the area appears dark and grimy. Women with long hair have to be especially careful about cleaning it daily. Make sure to soap thoroughly to avoid bacteria.

Pigmentation around the neck is another common problem. Use a lime-honey mix to lighten the skin. Use a toner to remove the excess oil and dirt.

Creams such as Melacare and Melalite help lighten the skin and are available at any chemist.

Beautiful fingers are often marred by ill maintained knuckles. The skin around the area becomes rough and dark at times. To avoid, keep your fingers clean and moisturise your hands twice daily.

The area under your nail needs close attention too. Dirt accumulates near the cuticles and makes them look unkempt. Keep nails short. Manicure nails regularly and clean the area with the tip of a nail file daily.

The skin on the elbow becomes rough and coarse. It appears black because one tends to lean on the area. Home remedies include the regular use of lemon juice on the elbow as it has a lightening and softening effect.

The back is easily neglected in one's daily hygiene regime. Some may view the area as 'difficult to reach', especially when it has to be rubbed dry after a shower. Simply dabbing the back dry or not doing it at all leads to dead cells and dull skin.

All that is required is a good, dry rub after a shower. Indulge in a back massage once a week. You can visit a spa or salon and even the neighbourhood beauty parlour.

Watch for pressure sores if you are prone to lying down for long periods. Change your position frequently and protect vulnerable areas with 'floatation cushions.

The knees are the roughest and driest areas of the body. They also appear black if not scrubbed thoroughly in the shower. Regular moisturising will keep knees soft and supple.

Finally, the feet need special care as well. Wearing open shoes daily, exposes the feet to the elements. This not only results in rough, dry and cracked soles but also calluses and rough spots. Moisturise daily and pedicure every fortnight to keep feet healthy and beautiful all through.

Scrubbing, rubbing, massaging and moisturising are the ways to keep all blind spots clean and visually appealing.

(With inputs from; Dr. Nishita Sheth, professional Aesthetician and Cosmetician)