Beauty

Establishing a good skincare routine is essential. Don't worry, I'm not suggesting you spend hours on your face. I'm a firm believer in not doing any more than you have to, but you really will see the benefits of a sensible routine that suits you and that you're happy to stick to. The right skincare will set you up for the day and help your skin to recover at night, which are both vital if you want your skin to remain clear and youthful.

I'm not a particular believer in fancy, expensive products. There's only so much you can do with creams, but I do think it's worth taking time to find products that suit you and that you enjoy using. The right cream will glide into your skin, leaving it softer and feeling more comfortable. Plus if you enjoy the sensation of the cream being smoothed on and its smell, you're going to feel happier, which in turn will make you feel and look younger.

I also advise making seasonal adjustments to your skincare. For instance, in the summer you will probably need a lighter moisturiser than in the winter, but a higher sun protection factor is a must. As a general rule, most people's skin is drier in the winter and needs a more intense moisturiser because of harsher weather and greater extremes of temperature, with cold winds outside and hot, dry central heating indoors.

Always cleanse your face and neck thoroughly morning and night. In the morning, cleansing helps freshen and prepare your skin. At night it's even more important to cleanse skin to remove all the dirt it's accumulated through the day. Removing your make-up only takes a minute, and as night time is when skin repairs and rejuvenates itself, it's vital your skin should be able to breathe. I really think this is the key if you want to keep signs of ageing at bay.

Don't forget to moisturise - you need a moisturiser with at least SPF 15 in the winter and SPF 30 in the summer. This helps to seal in moisture and hydration, and protects your skin from the environment. Even oily skin needs moisturizing otherwise normal enzyme activity will slow down, leaving skin prone to irritation.

Cleansing and moisturizing your skin well will give you a good base for any other cosmetics you use, making them look better and last longer. Exfoliating once a week is also essential if you want to keep your complexion bright, glowing and youthful.

Nicky's top beauty tips for holding back the years

• Drink plenty of water - it's your skin's most important beauty treatment. About 2 litres a day will keep skin hydrated and help plump out fine lines. You'll notice a difference within hours.

• Skin experts recommend sleeping on your back to encourage blood flow and reduce puffiness. You're also more likely to develop deeper wrinkles on the side of your face on which you sleep.

• Easier said than done, but try to avoid stress. It triggers the release of cortisol in your body, which weakens your immune system and the skin's ability to act as a barrier, leaving it prone to inflammation and irritation.

• Skin problems are often a sign of an unhealthy gut. A balanced, nutritious diet is vital if you want healthy skin. Vitamins A, C and E and essential fatty acids are particularly important in the fight against premature skin ageing.

• Treat yourself to regular facials. They help to relax muscles and tone the complexion. They are also a good way of keeping up to date with new products and understanding what your skin is like now.