Phyl Clarke on how latecomers to make-up can give their faces a naturally polished look
It rarely occurs to me that some people don't spend at least a couple of minutes grooming their faces each day. There are women who can face the world without their "armour". But there are fewer vocations nowadays, and, anyway, have you ever noticed that nuns always have the most beautiful skin? It must be their pure lives; I'm sure they're not buying state-of- the-art creams. Ladies, it's all in the mind. If you feel good, you look good, and if that's without a scrap of make-up, more power to you.
I have a friend with a dilemma that faces many women in their mid-30s. Whereas you may well get away with the natural look in your 20s, when things start losing their glow, you need help. So how do you go from never wearing make-up to putting on the stuff regularly, without looking like a trollop? What you want is the naturally polished look; here are my must-haves for it.
Consider having a makeover at an established brand counter. The consultants are usually founts of knowledge, with great tips. Be honest and don't be too ambitious if you're new to the game. Keep it simple and you will learn more.
Concealer is your first weapon, and if you take the time to apply it with a brush, it will last all day. Go right underneath the lash line and apply to that dark inner corner of your eye. Mac Select Cover-up, which costs €17.50 and comes in 19 colours, does a great job. Face and body foundation, also by Mac, at €36, will give you a believable finish, as it resembles skin texture very well. Alternatively, you can use a two-in-one product, such as the brilliant Bobbi Brown Stick Foundation/Concealer, at €35, which you can apply to suit you, and it won't spill in your handbag. To keep eyes subtle, Clinique Touch Tint for Eyes (€19) glides easily across the eyelid and won't crease. The colours are ultra-flattering neutrals in tawny, caramel and peach shades that won't look over the top.
You will need a hint of colour on your cheeks to balance the look; try Benefit Benetint, which costs €33.50. This scary-looking vivid-pink liquid imparts a natural flushed rosy glow, which you can build up very easily. Or try one of the dual cheek and lip products that guarantee a harmonious match. Stila Convertible Colour, at €29, is a lightweight cream that gives an outdoorsy fresh look on cheeks and lips. The Multiple from is a handbag favourite of mine which can be used on eyes, cheeks and lips, three products in one for €40.50. If you prefer a stand-alone lip colour, go for a matte stain (apply with brush and blot back) such as Bobbi Brown Slopes, which costs €26 and is a gorgeous neutral. Clinique Sheer lipsticks cost €19 and are also winners. is renowned for exceptional textures and colours.
Bronzer is optional, but can be useful for dusting the neck area and decollete. Finish with a sweep around the face for a natural glow. Terracotta Moisturising Powder by Guerlain costs €36, comes in six colours and delivers just the right amount of shimmer to the skin. If using bronzer, apply before mascara and lip colour, and get ready for the compliments.