A great winter pick-me-up

Compiled by PHYL CLARKE

TAKE 3 Winter Tans

WORK IT UP

St Tropez Gradual Tan €17.75 A hydrating body moisturiser which builds a gradual tan with daily use. No tell-tale self-tan aroma either, the fragrance is subtle. Widely available.

INSTANT SUCCESS

Rimmel Sunshimmer €7.95 For an immediate colour, look no further than this classic skin enhancer, which dries instantly, gives a natural finish and won’t come off on clothes. As if that wasn’t enough, it comes in two shades and a matte or shimmer finish. Widely available.

SLEEP ON IT

James Read Sleep Mask Tan £25 A great winter pick-me-up, this overnight beautifying treatment mask has self-tanning agents added to the skin boosting ingredients. Massage on to face before bed time and wake up glowing. From jamesreadtan.com

I can't live without, Emma Sheehan, managing director, Bombay Pantry

12-week blow-dry: This is an absolute necessity to tame my unruly hair. Brenda in Vanilla Rathmines looks after me and it makes life so much easier . I also love Batiste dry shampoo, another hair saving product.

Jo Malone Orange Blossom: This gorgeous scent is perfect for winter months when you dream of summer and holidays. Every time I wear it I feel like a new woman.

Benefit’s They’re Real mascara: This little wonder wand really opens up my eyes, especially when I am tired.

Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick in Pink Quartz: This is great for highlighting and giving a soft warm glow. It is one of my favourite highlighters.

Perfect match

Since Alber Elbaz joined French fashion house Lanvin more than 10 years ago, women have not been able to get enough of his ultra flattering dresses which combine fluid lines with a mastery of the bias cut.

Now turning his talents to the beauty world, Elbaz has teamed up with Lancôme to produce a make-up line that reflects his vision of contemporary femininity – easy glamour with a quirky twist. If this collection makes women feel half as good as his dresses do, we’re in for a treat when it hits counters in June.

Handbag essential

It’s quick and versatile, gives a flawless finish and is the ultimate touch-up product. The women of Ireland love MAC Studio Fix Powder (it’s a regular on the I Can’t Live Without slot) and the company has returned the lurve by expanding its shade range to include some for paler Irish skin tones.

According to MAC senior artist Lesley Keane, although we are a small country we are the drivers behind the new foundation shades, specially developed for our famous porcelain skins. It’s great for maintaining make-up on a night out – a real handbag essential. €31.50