Flower power
Orchids are one of the most beautiful flowers – so delicate, elegant and graceful, yet they are very resilient, with an ability to store water and nutrients. Garnier's new Vital Restore range for mature skin combines orchid extract with soy proteins to hydrate and firm post-menopausal skin. The range includes an anti-age spots serum, along with day, night and eye creams. Prices are from €13.99.
Perfect match
Here’s a perfect example of a product that is greater than the sum of its parts. The combination of Olay skincare with a soupçon of Max Factor foundation is the latest in tinted moisturisers. Where did that fresh-faced look come from? That even-skinned glow? Ah, that’s why they’ve called it Olay Complete Touch of Foundation. It’s the answer for women on the go, comes in three shades and costs €13.99.
Eyes right
I don’t know of many eye creams that contain sun protection. It seems we can protect our faces, our hands, even our lips, but when it comes to the finest skin on our entire bodies, we must rely on sunglasses for protection. Guinot Age Sun Yeux (€64.55) addresses this with a whopping SPF30. A cocktail of anti-ageing and eye-brightening ingredients covers all aspects of eye care. Stockists nationwide. (For Mykita glasses shown above, see page 17.)
In the genes
As time goes by, cell turnover is slower, resulting in drier, more lined skin. This fact was the starting point for 10 years of research done by Lancôme. They identified a protein profile specific to young skin, and bottled it. Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate (€70) has a velvety texture which smooths and tones, leaving skin plumped and radiant.
Body issues
With money too tight to mention, finding products that perform at a reasonable price reaps its own rewards. The Earth Spa range from Marks Spencer includes three lines which either purify, pamper, or treat the body. Ingredients such as seaweed extracts help to detox, while exotic flowers soothe. My personal pick is the wonderfully versatile Bath and Body Wonder Oil (€10) which can be used in the bath, on the body or hair.
Oil right
We know that olive oil is good for us, and beauty comes from the inside . . . blah de blah. A new skincare range from L’Occitane combines the nourishing benefits of the olive fruit and its leaf extract with hydrating mint water, sweet almond and macadamia oils. Light and comfortable on the skin, with a delicious scent. From €21.50.