Back to basics: Get your skin ready for warm weather and backless tops

There really is no greater inspiration to don a backless gown than seeing Margot Robbie in the jaw-dropping fire-engine-red Valentino dress she wore at the UK premiere of Babylon in January. It was completely covered at the front and deeply exposed at the back, paired perfectly with matching red lipstick and a low messy bun.

The boys have also been embracing the look, with rapper Bad Bunny and designer Simon Porte Jacquemus both wearing backless suits to the 2023 Karl Lagerfeld-themed Met Gala.

But a red carpet-worthy back can be hard to achieve because parts of the back are difficult to reach, which can make them a cleansing and treatment nightmare. A common problem is bacne (back acne), which flares up when pores get clogged.

“One of the most common causes of back acne is sweaty clothes,” says dermatologist Elizabeth Hale. “Hair follicles on the back can trap sweat and bacteria and cause breakouts, especially after working out.”

To combat this, shower with a body wash with salicylic acid, such as Murad Acne Body Wash ($129) and use a handy back exfoliating tool like Manicare Exfoliating Back Scrubber ($14.50) – it has stretchy fabric and handles, perfect for hard-to-reach areas. If the body wash isn’t doing the trick, head to your doctor for a prescription treatment such as peroxide foam, which kills inflammation-causing bacteria.

As we tend to store stress in our backs, try a regular therapeutic massage. The Sydney master of unknotting backs is Kosta Stavrinos ($250 for 90 minutes; try kinematics.com.au in Melbourne). Stavrinos uses soft-tissue massage, dry needling, red-light therapy, electrotherapy and stretching.

For extra glow, complete the process with a perfectly applied fake tan. Go to Tan Temple in Sydney and Miss Fox in Melbourne for an in-salon tan. For a DIY application, try Bondi Sands One Hour Express Foam ($25).

As with all fake-tanning, prep is key, so exfoliate well before going in. For an even application, apply the mousse to the soft foam Loving Tan Easy To Reach Back Applicator ($25), using it in circular motions to get good coverage. It packs away neatly, too, so is great for travel top-ups.

To extend the life of your fake tan, apply Spray Aus Tan Extender ($28) before bed each night. It’s a lightweight, hydrating and moisturising gradual tanner.

Ask Steph

How often should I floss?

Sydney dentist Andy Kumar suggests brushing teeth for two minutes twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day. White Glo Flossers Eco Friendly Mint ($8 for 70) is a good option.

Send questions via Instagram, @mrssdarling.

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