Beauty

Compiled by PHYL CLARKE

Consider this The Smoky Eye Powder Pencil

Create an easy peasy smokin’ eye by lining along top lashes with this wonderful powder pencil by Elizabeth Arden (€18). The consistency is perfect for easy application and the built-in smudger has just the right shape to soften the line to your desired intensity. Available in six shades, espresso being a gorgeous, rich chocolate brown. From Elizabeth Arden counters nationwide.

Saving your blushes

It’s easy to get stuck in a make-up rut. I’m all in favour of having an occasional make-over at your favourite counter to update your look. From what I hear, wearing blush is an issue for the more mature woman, which is a pity as it’s one of the key colour items in your make-up bag. A pop of blush is marvellous for restoring that youthful glow that is lost as we age and skin colour diminishes.

Start by finding the right spot to place colour – a tiger stripe high on the cheekbone will fool no one and send you back to the 1980s.

Here’s the modern way to a realistic glow:

When choosing a shade, the most natural one for you is the colour of your cheeks after exercising. You can also check this by pinching your cheek if you don’t fancy a run around the block. A cream formula is most natural – your lipstick can often double up beautifully here.

Apply blush before eye make-up as once cheek colour is in place, you may find you need less eye shadow. It’s also helpful to fill in and groom brows before applying eye make-up for the same reason.

Where you apply product is key to keeping it real. Place a finger at the edge of your nose and slide outwards towards your ear until you reach the point directly under the pupil of your eye. This is your starting point.

Tap a small amount of colour at the start point and blend upwards and outwards – following the curve of your eye can be a good guide. Don’t rub it in as this can lead to spreading colour beyond where you’d like it. Tap, tap, tapping gives much more control. A little goes a long way. Remember, it’s much easier to add than take away.

The Multiple by Nars is the original multi-use product – a creamy stick that can be used on cheeks, lips and eyes, depending on the shade chosen. For a really natural cheek tint, choose the shades Portofino or Malibu, a coral shimmer and pinky brown respectively. Available from Brown Thomas and spacenk.com

Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge in Powder Pink is a suits-all, instant face freshener without any hint of sugariness.

Max Factor Miracle Touch in Soft Murano is a lovely pinky coral at a purse- friendly price.

Mac Cream blend blush in Tea Petal is a natural reddish brown, which gives a non-pinky flush.

AT YOUR SERVICE Your questions answered

Q. Maryanne Comiskey from Mullingar writes: I go the gym three times a week and always finish up with a swim, but the negative effect that chlorine has on my hair is really bothering me. My regular shampoo doesn’t get rid of the smell. Is there a magic product out there that I don’t know about?

A. This is a common problem. Chlorine is a powerful chemical that keeps bacteria at bay in swimming pools, but can damage the delicate structure of the hair shaft by sucking out the sebum and leaving it dry and brittle. It can also have a drastic impact on coloured hair, especially blondes, who may notice a greenish tinge after regular exposure to the chemical. Then there’s the lingering “eau de chlorine” fragrance, which annoyingly stays with you all day.

You can prevent some of the damage by applying conditioner before putting on your bathing cap, which should be made of rubber and be as close-fitting as possible. After your swim, rinse your hair thoroughly before shampooing and conditioning again.

There are shampoos that specifically target this problem. Pureology Shampoo (€18.30), available at L’Oréal hair salons, removes chemicals and is a popular choice with regular pool swimmers. The K-Pak Hair Protection System from Joico (€16.90) is a chelator that removes chlorine and mineral deposits caused by hard water. Tel: 045-856490 for stockists.