The time has come – I’m off on holiday. In fact by the time you read this I will be in an undisclosed European location trying to pretend that a relaxing vacation is possible with two children under five.

I didn’t really bother with a ‘bikini body’ this year. After all, as the wonderful beauty writer Grace Timothy advised recently on Twitter: “Want a bikini body? PUT A BIKINI ON YOUR BODY. Done.” But that said, I do need a little assistance – not body changing stuff, more smoke and mirrors. A bit of exfoliation here, some fake tan there. Here’s what has got me ready over the last two weeks…

I’m developing quite a crush on new brand Ruby Red. Chunky, pharmacy-style packaging, plant formulas made in the UK and free from all the nasties. I am currently addicted to the gigantic tub of Smoothing Body Scrub (£35) in my bathroom: red mandarin, lemon and wild cedarwood organic essential oils give it the most delicious zingy fragrance, and it leaves skin super-soft.

Post-shower, I’ve taken a shine to Famous Dave’s latest addition: Tan & Tone (£24.99), which combines the brands super-natural gradual tanning ingredients with horse chestnut to boost sluggish circulation and butcher’s broom to help banish fluid retention. A real body perker-upper, if you know what I mean.

Speaking of toning, there’s a lot of talk these days about cellulite creams ‘working’ – or not working. Personally, I’m in the ‘if it makes my backside a little smoother, I’m happy’ camp. And Cinq Mondes Crème de Café (£43.00 from Spa Voyage Ltd, 01483 450 830) does just that.

For an all over body treatment, Cold Plasma Body from Perricone (£78) is a real game-changer. It only takes a week or so to notice the promised increase in firmness and smoothing out of imperfections. One area I see this one get to work especially well, is on upper arms and décolletage. Doesn’t smell fabulous – but does a fabulous job so I can live with that.

Finally, Caudalie Divine Legs (£26), which has restored my faith in non-developing fake tans. I always found them streaky, unnatural and prone to coming off on clothes. This one – not so. In fact, it’s a damn near perfect product that you can use anywhere you like for an instant, natural but temporary bit of colour.

Happy holidays.

For more holiday inspiration see StyleNest’s roundup of best summer nail polishes.