B-B-Beautiful
BEAUTY: It’s barely a year since blemish balm creams hit the shelves yet they’ve quickly become the beauty trend of 2012 with brands falling over themselves to bring out their own version of the skincare hybrid.
It’s not difficult to see why the balms, or BB creams as they’re more commonly called, have caught the public’s imagination.
What’s not to like about a product that combines moisturiser, concealer, primer, sun block and colour – ah now, there’s the rub. To date, I’ve found the shades either very pale or too yellow in tone, so I’m happy to report that La Roche Posey’s version includes a touch of pink in its two beige-toned shades. Suitable for sensitive or reactive skin types.
La Roche Posay Hydreane BB Creme costs €18 and is available at pharmacies.
TREND ALERT Eye Brightening Mascara
Origins GinZing Brightening Mascara €20 contains a subtle navy tint that makes eyes appear whiter. Clever, non?
Max Factor Eye Brightening Tonal Black Mascaras €8.99 A quartet of black mascaras with light reflective particles to enhance green, brown, hazel and blue eyes.
I Can’t live Without... Clare O’Malley, actress
BreakfastI am a big breakfast person and can’t function if I skip it. I love my mom’s homemade granola, with low-fat Greek yogurt and fruit. Sometimes I like a rasher sandwich, or poached eggs on brown bread. I also take vitamin B supplements in liquid form, which are great for the immune system.
Rockstar Entourage Gradual Tan MoisturiserI usually embrace my pale skin, red hair and freckles. But sometimes for stage lighting or for a night out it’s nice to have a bit of a glow without having to go orange. After years of blotchy fake tan I have discovered Rockstar Gradual Tanner, which is Irish made and a real find.
YogaI love yoga as a way to start or end my day, whether it’s taking a class or just doing my DVD at home – Gaiam DVDs are my favourite. Yoga leaves me stretched, open and ready to work. I’ve tried hot Bikram yoga, but think I’m better with something less extreme. It’s a good way to unwind after a show, without having to hit the pub!
Badger BalmBadger makes a “sore muscle rub” and a “sleep balm” that smell amazing and the small tins fit in my bag. They have a wider selection of products in the States but usually have these two in Boots. It’s a simple way to relieve tired feet and hands and can even help a headache.
A good bookMy granny says you’re never alone with a good book. I’ll read anything: plays, poetry, novels and biographies. I have a Kindle for when I’m touring and I also love a root around in a second-hand bookshop – Chapters, by the Gate Theatre, has a massive selection. Switching off with a book definitely makes me a happier, healthier person.
