Well the skin is the largest organ in the body, there are loads of really impressive stats about how big and complicated it is, skin protects us from infection (hence why washing your hands is so important), it keeps all the fluid bits of us inside, it stretches and holds up together, so it's worth looking after.

There are lots of different skin problems and it's not worth going into details about all of them so we've tried to pic the top few thought would be useful to know about.....

1 - Acne, spots and zits

Most of us have had spots at some point, some of us grew of them, others still have spotty skin well into our thirties and forties. Spots can be caused by all sorts of things and there are hundreds of old wives tales on what causes them and how to fix them, as well as a host of spot creams, facial washes and cleansers, and unfortunately it's a case of try and find something that works for you.

It's generally agreed that drinking lots of water helps keep your complexion clear and improves your skin tone.

If you have very bad acne then it's worth going to see your GP or practice nurse to discuss some of the drugs that can help clear up your skin. Most of them have quite nasty side effects while they sort out your skin, like flaking and peeling and very red skin, but the end result can be really good and utterly life changing......

If you get spots in other places they can sometimes be infected hair follicles and if they don't settle in a few days or are very painful then it is worth going to the GP to get an antibiotic or antifungal cream which can help them heal.

2 - Sweat Rash

If you have curves or rolls of fat these can sometimes get quite sweaty underneath and it's important to try and keep them clean by having regular showers or baths. If the persperation builds up it can irritate the skin and you can get fungal infections like thrush which like warm, moist folds of skin. It often helps to put on some talc before you exercise to help reduce the build up of sweat but make sure to wash it off afterwards otherwise it will rub and irritate the skin....obviously doesn't work if you're swimming!

Sweat rash is often sore and itchy. You can try treating it with Canestan or Dackort cream which have some anti-inflamatory and anti-fungal components. If it doesn't settle down then go and see your GP or practice nurse for something a little stronger.