More important than an expensive or extensive array of products, consistency in your skincare regime will pay off. Here, an expert charts daily, weekly and monthly skincare steps, so you can set up your own schedule to ensure a glowing face and body.

Skincare : Beauty is, to a large extent, about having visual appeal; something people can see and appreciate. As Jean Kerr, an American author and playwright, put it: "I'm tired of all this nonsense about beauty being only skin-deep. What do you want? An adorable pancreas?"

You really do not know what is going on inside your skin and body, but if you are glowing on the outside, it likely means all is well.

"There is a direct and definite link between your skin internally and externally," says Sally-Ann Simmons, a Dubai-based facialist and skincare expert.

"This obsession among women makes them spend hours in front of the mirror in the struggle to keep a check on ageing. What they need to understand is that creams, lotions and magic fixes may promise timeless beauty, but it is only a diligent skincare routine that will give them great skin.

"If you love your skin, it will love you back," says Simmons.

"You will see that for yourself over time. The cleansing, toning, moisturising regimen is a tried-and-tested way to care for your skin. But first, know your skin type.

"I would suggest you seek expert advice to help determine that. How you care for your skin is entirely dependent on the type of skin you have: oily, normal, combination,dry or mature."

Here, Simmons charts a skincare regimen for women with differentskin types and needs.

Cleansing : For the face, a cleanser is the first product your skin will touch and respond to. This is why it is imperative to find a good face cleanser and stick to it. However, the best cleanser to use first thing every morning is plain water which helps remove excess oil residue from your night cream.

Cleansing is equally important for the body and a daily bath just isn't enough. You should also invest in specialised body cleansing treatments periodically.

Toning : The second step after cleansing,toning removes traces of make-up and dirt on the face and helps close pores. Unlike the face, when it comes to the body, the word ‘toning' does not refer to the use of a toner gel or toning water. Rather, we are talking about a rigorous session of body exfoliation and thorough cleansing, preferably by means of a Moroccan bath.

Moisturising : We know a good facial moisturiser hydrates, but how much should you moisturise and when? Simmons says, "When your facial skin feels tight, it means it is thirsty. But if you overmoisturise, your skin's pores can get clogged."

The same moisturising rule applies for the body. Body moisturisers usually have a richer texture than facial moisturisers to cater for the body's rapid loss of moisture through the course of the day. Use a moisturiser after bathing when your skin is still damp.

Night care : At night, while you rest, your skin is actively repairing the damage done to its cells in the course of the day. Night creams are richer in texture so it's best to apply them 30 minutes before you go to bed so as not to transfer the cream to your bed linen.

Although some of us have been putting it off for years, those in the beauty business swear by night-time body care. Applying a rich body moisturiser every night can bring about a dramatic improvement in skin quality as the skin gets the most from the cream during the recommended eight hours of sleep.

Sunscreen : Sun damage is by far the leading factor behind premature facial wrinkles, which is why experts constantly remind us about including sunscreen in our daily routine all year round. In the UAE, an SPF 30 is ideal. Reapply after four hours.

A 10 - Point Plan

* Know your skin type - normal, oily, dry, combination, mature or sensitive. It's a good idea to arrange a consultation with an expert in order to be sure it is what youthink it is.
    * Be clear about what results you are looking for.
    * Be realistic when it comes to your budget and results
    * Choose a beauty therapist who has been well recommended.
    * Be consistent with your routine.
    * Always get a second opinion and try samples before splurging on expensive products.
* Opt for consultations before you go for the actual treatments to find out exactly what you are getting yourself into.
    * Keep your routine simple and do not overload your skin with too many products.
    * Set aside a 3-4 hour ‘me time' slot every week for do-it-yourself treatments for the face and body.
    * Be sure to back up your beauty regimen with a healthy diet and by following a healthy lifestyle.