Three weeks into January and applying makeup still feels laborious. Hence easy and natural is ideal. That said, “natural” is totally subjective; for some, natural is a full face of maquillage – contouring, powder, falsies, the works. For those with a minimalistic outlook, here’s the tip. A foundation or concealer that feels and – when applied – looks like skin, an elevated, grownup lip balm that you can use sans mirror, a mascara that gives you full, thick lashes in seconds (Sculpted by Aimee is phenomenal) and a highlighter to dot on your cheekbones so you don’t look as dull as January.
1. Byredo Lip Balm £40, cultbeauty.com
2. Sisley Stylo correct Concealer £46, net-a-porter.com
3. Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Care & Glow Foundation £30, lancome.co.uk
4. Rare Beauty Positive Light Silky touch Highlighter £28, sephora.co.uk
5. Sculpted by Aimee My Mascara £17, sculptedbyaimee.co.uk
I can’t do without… An entry-level retinoid serum that won’t make your skin shed
There are not many products I would slap on without batting an eyelid. But I barely read the blurb on this retinoid serum before covering my face in it. I had immediate trust. That’s because the woman behind the brand is Caroline Hirons – the skincare guru with more than 25 years of expertise. What Hirons doesn’t know about skincare is probably not worth knowing. And so Skin Rocks, her skincare line, is founded on all the principles that have made Hirons one of the most powerful voices in beauty: transparency, honesty and education. Her initial launch includes two products which are retinoids – an ingredient every skincare expert will tell you we should all be using to get the best skin ever. Retinoids are a much-lauded wonder ingredient because they are excellent for everything from fine lines to hyperpigmentation. However, many are really harsh and leave you looking tight, red raw and shedding like a snake in a heartbeat. While many are still happy to go through that, Hirons has created two retinoid products so you don’t have to. If you have never tried retinoids before, or you’ve never got on with them, or are prone to sensitivity or a little bit terrified, try Retinoid 1. It is a fantastic entry-level serum. Use it nightly (always wear sunscreen in the morning) and in a few days you’ll notice clearer, brighter, smoother skin. No shedding, no pain, just great results. Skin Rocks Retinoid 1, £65, skinrocks.com
On my radar… Three hair treatments for lusher locks
Smooth operator This multitasking antioxidant-rich oil can be used as intensive treatment or for styling. So expect softer, shinier hair and a quicker blowdry. Moroccan Oil Treatment, £34.85, lookfantastic.com
While you sleep An overnight serum that nourishes the skin barrier on your scalp so it produces healthy hair. Hyaluronic acid keeps moisture levels intact. Aveda Scalp Solutions Overnight Serum, £42, aveda.com
Working wonders Damaged hair and looking for a brilliant fuss-free treatment? Try this no-rinse hair-bonding complex. Use weekly to repair hair and make it stronger. Living Proof Triple Bond Complex, £43, livingproof.co.uk
Follow Funmi on Twitter @FunmiFetto
