Sugar, sleep, sex your skin and

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You say “When I stay away from sugar, my skin is normal; not too dry, not too oily. But if I eat sweets or chocolate multiple days in a row, my face looks lacklustre and breakouts begin, especially on my cheeks and my chin.” – Sally, 20

Yes, says Beverly Hills dermatologist Dr Harold Lancer, “Just about all the structures of the skin benefit from sexual intimacy.” Number one, sex and orgasm increase blood flow – so all organs get a flood of oxygen, including the skin. Two, sex stimulates oestrogen, thus maintaining hydration and increasing lymphatic drainage, which is good for your skin. Third, it stimulates testosterone production, which can slow wrinkling. Want a natural boost? TRY Maca Root from health shops (from R175).

ome women seem to rock major ab definition after just a few weeks of clean eating and amped-up workouts. For others, it feels like it would take months of perfectly portioned meals, marathon workouts and a nonexistent social life to get to #Absgoals territory. The truth is that our genetics plays the biggest role in our six-pack potential.

But regardless of the raw materials heredity hands you, there are variables you can control to maximise your core strength. One key: a resistance training programme that works all of your muscles, not just your midsection. “You can’t spotreduce, but you can shape your abs and obliques with targeted training the same way you can increase definition in your biceps or glutes,” says trainer Hannah Davis.

As a bonus, resistance exercises improve your posture and boost your performance in every athletic move. Find the key components to a solid core, including diet, cardio and adequate sleep, here.

Your DNA determines where you store body fat and plays a role in how quickly you can reduce it. “How much testosterone you have also makes a difference,” says exercise physiologist Dr John Porcari. “The higher your levels, the more easily you build muscle everywhere, including your core.”