The countdown has started and summer is just around the corner, but are you ready?

All winter sections of your body have barely seen the light of day and have been hidden under coats, sweaters, socks and shoes. But, before you know it shorts, tank tops, sandals, and don’t forget the swimsuits, will be the mainstay of your wardrobe.

Have you taken a good look at your skin lately and is it ready to meet summer head on? If not you might want to give some consideration to getting your skin ready for some fun and sun.

Chances are you haven’t given much thought to your skin since it has been barely visible, but being inside for long periods of time with the heater going and very little moisture in the air can leave your skin rough and dry. One important step is to exfoliate your entire body.

Every minute of every day your body discards old and dying skin cells. You can apply as much lotion as you can find, but if old cells are allowed to remain they will simply build up on the skin’s surface making it appear dry and lifeless. Hit the shower with a gentle scrub, start at the top and work your way down. For year round, great looking skin do this a couple of times a week.

The legs have it and summer means exposing them to the light. How many days go by during the winter that you simply "forget" to shave? Certainly a no, no during the summer months.

But, great legs need to start with a great shave. Stay away from the fifty cent razor since they are notorious for razor burn, cuts and nicks. Spend a few cents more and get a good razor and use a good shaving lotion to help with hydration, if you’re a little short this month you can substitute your conditioner. Or, better yet turn to waxing to help avoid those unsightly bumps shaving sometimes creates.

While you’ve done a number of things, like exfoliating, shaving and maybe exercising, to get your skin ready, but to really have beautiful skin and a healthy glow you need to prepare from the inside out. Eating healthy and fresh foods will provide the vitamins and nutrients every part of your body needs. Add salmon and green tea to your diet. Salmon is full of omega 3s, green tea has antioxidants, but both contain compounds that offer protection against the damage UV rays can cause.

Don’t forget the water. With a busy summer schedule it’s easy to forget to drink enough water. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty, keep a bottle handy at all times.

Eat fruits containing vitamin A and C on a daily basis. Fruits like cherries, oranges, raspberries and grapefruits do wonders for your skin. And, you probably thought they were only good for fighting a cold. Not so. A and C are excellent companions for your skin and help keep it soft and younger looking.