We've all done it - skipping body lotion after a shower as we hurriedly scramble to dress and dash out the door. So when you do find time to moisturise, you need a bit of extra help - especially when your skin is parched from having to bare your limbs now that it's no-tights weather. Add to that the onslaught of shaving, waxing, tanning and copious amounts of sun and sea and you end up with skin that's practically crying out for water like a pilgrim in the desert.

Which is why using a body cream several times a week is a good idea (ideally in a heavy jar which you could easily knock out an intruder with). This is no pop-in-your-bag-en-route-to-the-gym product - it sits majestically on your dressing table and requires time devoted to it, where you can draw the curtains and apply it languorously in the manner of a pampered courtesan, then relax as it takes its time to sink into the skin, savouring its rich scent (if there is one). 

So give your skin a treat this spring and summer, take a look through our gallery to find out the best body creams for parched skin. Your scaly limbs will thank you for it.