ABOUT FACE:WE'RE RIGHT SLAP BANG in the middle of the silly season, and we won't be able to swing into autumn mode before we've actually had a summer
The cosmetics counters are already filling up with gorgeous shades for the coming season, but, as Frankie said - relax, don't do it - or at least don't do it yet. Resist. Sure won't the winter be long enough? Those autumnal shades can wait another couple of weeks. I admit that it is difficult to leave the shops without a small cosmetic treat, especially after having your hair done, so here are a few suggestions to put a spring in your beauty step.
St Tropezcan't put a foot wrong in the tanning world and their latest product will cheer up the dullest day. A swish of Automatic Bronzing Shimmer Powder with its built-in brush (€24.95) will add a bronzed glow to your face and décolleté, and give a lovely finish to the skin which is not too shimmery.
The world loves Touche Éclat for its under-eye brightening properties, and YSLhas added to its beauty range with Top Secrets Flash Radiance (€50), a skin enhancer that promises to conceal imperfections and refine skin, leaving a radiant healthy glow with or without make up. They do love their brushes at YSL, and this product has one built-in for easy and professional application.
How about a new foundation? The mineral trend shows no signs of abating and the latest brand to join the club is Prescriptives(€38). It has gone the extra mile by including radiance emitting crystals to the formula, giving skin a silky feel and a luminous finish. It has SPF 15 and comes in a choice of 18 shades.
Nothing cheers a girl up like a new lip shade, and transparent colour maintains the seasonal feel. Chanel'sAqualumière Lipgloss (€23.50) is a sumptuous gel that feels divine on the lips. My favourite shade is the supremely natural Glass Quartz, a creamy praline which looks great alone or over lipstick. With this product you know you're treating yourself, and sure, aren't you worth it?
Chantecailleis a shudderingly expensive range, but the quality is superb. Try the gorgeous Fruit and Flower Acid Mask. It costs the same as going for a facial, but you can do it at home and there are at least six applications in the €86 jar. It is hydrating, reviving and refreshing, the wonderful scent and velvety texture encourage you to relax while it works its magic. Available from Nue Bleu Eriu, Dublin 2 and spacenk.com
Cellulite is the bane of most women's lives and even celebrities don't escape the dreaded 'C' word. Dr Howard Muradis based in Hollywood and has a client list that reads like a who's who - Beyoncé, Uma Thurman, Hillary Clinton and Scarlett Johansson, to name but a few. His body firming treatment is now available in Ireland for the first time at Oceana Beauty in Malahide. This treatment (€65) lifts and tones in an hour-long indulgent and relaxing treatment. If you can't get there in person for the treatment, the Body Firming products are available to buy (from €42.75). Tel: 01-8283901.
And finally, next to a new lip colour, there's nothing like a new nail colour to lift your spirits, and Rebel Yell (€18) from Nars fits the trans-seasonal bill perfectly. It is a glorious dusty pomegranate shade, which is both a statement colour and yet neutral enough to match any outfit. Grown-up glamour. pclarke@irish-times.ie