While recent research has shown that upping your water intake may increase hydration in the stratum corneum (outermost layer of the skin), a lack of science to back that up means that we can’t definitely conclude that drinking fluids is a fast track to plump, hydrated skin. But we need water for whole-body functioning – and it certainly can’t hurt.
Skip that second application of shampoo – especially if you wash your hair every day. One lather is enough if you’re using a well-made shampoo. Manufacturers write ‘Rinse, lather, repeat’ on the back of their bottles because they want you to use up more of the product. (Better still, try to wean yourself off your daily shampoo/conditioner, which will not only save you time but your hair condition will appreciate it. Oily-haired types excepted, daily hair washing isn’t necessary for most of us.
We love this quote from fellow beauty editor Sarah Jossel (of The Sunday Times Style): ‘Whatever time of day – or night – season or occasion, blush is pure joy… Blush is caffeine for the complexion, the make-up equivalent of Berocca for a hangover.’ So: when’s the best time for a new blusher? Anytime.
As we move towards winter, when skin dehydration levels peak, scale back exfoliating to once a week. Any more frequently and you can interfere with skin’s barrier function.
Feeling anxious today? Add a few drops of orange, geranium and nutmeg essential oil onto a tissue, then inhale at any moment to instil a sense of calm.
The worst reason to buy a new fragrance is because it smells great on your friend. We all have a unique odour fingerprint – a combination of many factors including heredity, complexion and even diet. Fragrance develops and lasts differently on dry skin to oily skin, for example, while eating spicy or fatty foods can alter how something smells. So your friend might smell of delicious sun-drenched citruses – while on you, that same scent is more G&T. There is never a substitute for trying a fragrance on your own skin, before buying…
The worst reason to buy a new fragrance is because it smells great on your friend. We all have a unique odour fingerprint – a combination of many factors including heredity, complexion and even diet. Fragrance develops and lasts differently on dry skin to oily skin, for example, while eating spicy or fatty foods can alter how something smells. So your friend might smell of delicious sun-drenched citruses – while on you, that same scent is more G&T. There is never a substitute for trying a fragrance on your own skin, before buying…
If you have coloured hair, avoid deep cleansing or clarifying shampoos which can lift the colour from hair faster.
It’s definitely lip balm season. But don’t just apply it to your lips; include the whole area, as it’s often the lip-line that gets the driest and most uncomfortable.
Try this smoothie to start the day – the favourite of Ella Woodward: frozen banana with spinach, oats, almond butter, almond milk and blueberries. ‘It’s the easiest breakfast ever.’
Don't book a facial for just before any important event (interview, first date, wedding). But if your face does look red and patchy, the quickest fix is a washcloth dipped in ice water with a splash of cooling witch hazel, held against the skin.
The texture of a concealer can tell you a lot about its coverage. The wetter the concealer, the sheerer it will be. The drier, the more dense the coverage. (Those tend to come in pots.)
Most of us have experienced a too-short fringe at some point. If yours shrieks 'geek' (or even Richard III!), slick it to one side with pomade while it grows out.
If you struggle to fall asleep at night, avoid naps entirely. That way you'll build up lots of healthy sleepiness during the day to ensure a full night's kip when your head does hit the pillow.
If you've ever wondered why it's so hard to find the perfect mascara, you may be interested to know that according to experts, there are SEVEN different 'lashtypes'. That's why mascara's such an individual thing. What we've found, though, is that the new rubber wands work well whenever you need extra 'grip'. Maybe try one of those, next?
Confused about the order in which to apply products? Oils go on last of all, to ‘lock in’ hydrating ingredients, notably hyaluronic acid. Always apply your serum or moisturiser before a facial oil.
A quick guide to determining which kind of foundation you need. Take a piece of sticky tape, apply it to your cheek, pressing it on, then leave for 30 seconds. If there are small flakes of skin stuck to it when you remove it, your complexion is dry and in need of a moisturising foundation. If you think you have oily skin, wash your face and leave it for two hours; press a piece of tissue against the side of your nose and leave it for five seconds. If it becomes transparent, you’re oily and should look for an oil-free or fresh-matte foundation. For combination skin, go for a light and dewy formulation. (If you’re confused, well… that’s what beauty counter consultants are for.)
‘Tis the season of the lip, once more. But they don’t have to be Marilyn Monroe flawless. A great way to take it down a notch is to buff out the edges with your fingers or a tissue for a diffused finish. (Velvety lipsticks actually look better when they’re not perfect.)
Start each day with a stretch. Become aware of every part of your body – from toe to toe, fingertip to fingertip. We like to imagine a surge of energy running up along the spine, starting at the lowest end and running up the neck and through the head as you stretch your hands up to the ceiling. End the stretch with a moment of calm, focusing on feeling strong and energised before you start the day.
Not working out doesn’t just affect the waistline – it can also show up in our faces. When our cardiovascular system is functioning optimally, we have proper circulation, which ensures optimum flow of blood and nutrients to the skin. (Working out in the lead-up to an important event is one of the beauty secrets of those who walk the red carpet…)