KEEPING UP APPEARANCES:All set for tomorrow? I'll be watching through the night, even though intending to catch only the red carpet arrivals. Fast forward to the wee hours and I'll still be there when they announce the best picture award.
While it’s nice to escape for a while to the glamorous world of Hollywood, you don’t have to spend the earth to get star looks. You can do very well on a budget if you buy beauty products wisely.
Best skin care range
OLAY TOTAL EFFECTS €19.99
Close your eyes and this super-hydrating formula could be out of a far more expensive container. Although nourishing, it absorbs quickly, leaving a perfect base for make-up. There’s an SPF 15 too.
Best beauty serum
NO7 PROTECT PERFECT €24.50
Since studies showed this formula to be as effective as more expensive brands, sales have rocketed and the range has expanded, but the firming and antioxidant properties of the serum wins it the top spot.
Best face mask
THE BODY SHOP VITAMIN E MASK €15.40
This sumptuous, whipped mask gives skin a real moisture boost, and preps skin for special occasion make-up.
Best foundation
MAX FACTOR MIRACLE TOUCH €18.59
Featherlight formulation sinks into skin leaving a flawless finish. A terrific product, regardless of price.
Best mineral foundation
ISADORA €19.95
Many of the top brands are launching mineral foundations, which are growing in popularity as they are kind to problem skin, cover fine lines, and have a lightweight feel. My pick for value for money is the Isadora range which is finely milled and comes in a flattering colour range.
Best tinted moisturiser
AUTOGRAPH BY MS €14.50
Smooths on to skin, leaving a firming, matt finish with SPF 15. Comes in three shades that give a healthy glow.
Best concealer
RIMMEL HIDE THE BLEMISH €5.55
This little wonder stick has been covering up for many years now, and its winning formula and ability to zap imperfections makes it a top seller.
Best mascara
MASTERPIECE BY MAX FACTOR €12.59
Mascara is has the shortest shelf life of all make-up, as it is can harbour bacteria which may lead to eye infections, so spending less and changing it more often makes sense. This cult product has all the oomph you could ask for and gives the more expensive lines a run for their money.
Best blusher
BOURJOIS LITTLE ROUND POTS €9.99
These cute little pots belie their low price tag. They come in soft and flattering hues, in a finely pressed powder with a pearlised finish. They are very easy to blend and, if all that wasn’t enough, the powders are infused with a rose scent.
Best gradual tan
JOHNSON’S HOLIDAY SKIN €3.54
The original and still the best. This comes in a choice of shades, plus it’s a great moisturiser to boot.
Best instant tan
COTY SUNSHIMMER €11.99
This is perfect for adding a tanned glow to the body, or for perking up an existing tan.
Best hand cream
NEUTROGENA €5.49
Intensive care for hands in this rich and nourishing balm. Sinks in quickly, forming a protective shield.
Best hairspray
ELNETT SATIN €3.69
Forget the rest – this is the choice of the pros and is seen on every catwalk backstage. The secret of its success? Although light and easy to brush out, it gives strong hold.
Best hair serum
JOHN FRIEDA FRIZZ EASE €6.49
Many have tried, but have never bettered this iconic product. The original and the best serum to tame unruly locks.
Best face lift
EVA FRASER FACIAL FITNESS €24
Yes, it is possible to have a credit crunch face lift. Fraser’s DVD of facial exercises will lift and firm facial muscles to energise and rejuvenate, without a surgeon’s knife or hefty bill in sight. www.santum.ie
Best overall collection
BARBARA DALY FOR TESCO
She did it for the Body Shop and now she’s doing it for Tesco. The foundations, eye and lip shades are sophisticated, and the eye and face primers are terrific. Well designed and available with your weekly shop.
Best all-rounder
VASELINE PETROLEUM JELLY €1.59
It’s a lip gloss, highlighter, eye slicker, eyebrow groomer and a hand or foot treatment. Say goodbye to chapped skin when you smooth on this jelly, which melts into skin at body temperature.