Spring is here and as the weather warms it’s time for feet to come out and be seen in flip-flops, sandals and sexy slings. If you haven’t been kind to your feet all winter, now’s the time to get them in super shape with an invigorating scrub.

You’d be surprised at the number of scrubs on the market that are specifically for feet. A good number of them contain menthol or peppermint, which leave the feet feeling fresh and renewed. But there are other options available as well.

A scrub will exfoliate dead and dry skin, leaving the feet smooth. Nothing looks worse than flaky, dry heels and in sandals your feet are on display. Soak feet in warm water, then massage the scrub all over feet. Rinse with warm water. Follow up with a lightly scented moisturizing lotion and your feet will feel brand-new.

Researchers at the Université Lavel’s Faculty School of Medicine have discovered that a common ingredient in many anti-wrinkle creams and products causes a pathological reaction in skin cells.

The substance, DMAE (2-dimethylaminoethanol) first causes a rapid swelling of fibroblasts. Fibroblasts act as reservoirs and interface between the inside and outside of the cell.

But after a few hours there is a noticeable slowing of cell division and a dying off of fibroblasts. The initial thickening of the skin from the swollen fibroblasts is probably what causes the “anti-wrinkle” effect.

Cosmetics are not subjected to the same rigorous testing and safety trials as medications or other regulated products.

The researchers aren’t saying whether or not DMAE poses a health risk. But many compounds used in cosmetics are absorbed by the skin and enter the bloodstream, they may even be stored in the liver. That’s why Dr. Francois Marceau, one of the authors of the study, thinks it’s time that the possible dangers and health risks of cosmetic ingredients be studied.

Université Laval

It’s definitely too early in the season to spend a day at the beach or in the tanning booth (not good for your skin, either) and probably a bit early for self-tanning products unless you’re gearing up your color for a special event or a cruise. With no base color your trusty bronzer may not look as healthy and blended as you’d like. Plus, your skin is still recovering from winter’s harsh weather (even this spring is cooler than usual).

How about a moisturizer, sunscreen and skin tint all in one? Sephora’s Tinted Moisturizer is sheer with just a hint of color. It leaves a satin finish to your skin, so you never see or feel anything heavy or caky. On top of that it nourishes your skin with Vitamins A, C and E. The perfect foundation for the transition into spring. Comes in 5 shades from light to deep and bronze.

Neutrogena introduces do-it-yourself microdermabrasion in a kit that includes everything you need to give yourself professional results at home.

The Neutrogena Advanced Solutions At Home MicroDermabrasion System contains:

* Advanced Solutions Micro-Oxide Crystallized Cream 2.5 oz - Contains the same aluminum-oxide crystals used by dermatologists and salon professionals for professional level microdermabrasions.

* Advanced Solutions System Applicator - This tool has two speeds to allow you to control the intensity of your treatment for maximum results without discomfort.

* Advanced Solutions Soft Foam Sponge Head - Two sponges are included in the system.

* 2 AA Batteries and Custom Stand for convenient storage when not in use.

The instructions say to use for 5 days in a row to start, then give your skin a week off to adjust. After that you can use the system 2-3 times a week to maintain your results. Neutrogena says that using the microdermabrasion system will exfoliate and lift dead skin, lessen fine lines and wrinkles, fade sun and age spots and give you finer, softer and younger-looking skin.

I approached this product with a slightly scrunched up look, one that sort of says “ouch”. But after reading what others are saying about it, I think it’s a wonderful alternative to paying high prices for similar treatments in a salon or spa. Retailing at about $39.99, it pays for itself with just one use. Future expenses will include replacing the micro-oxide cream and the batteries.