Q I have to wear my hair up for the office but often go straight out to dinner or drinks. How can I create a sassier look for the evening without carrying around loads of products and curling irons?
A Rain Baxter, senior stylist at Ted Morgan, says, "Changing your hair style from day to night doesn't have to involve an overflowing handbag full of straighteners and serums. At the end of the working day, simply pull your hair into a low side ponytail, adding a pretty accessory to transform your look for evening. Leave loose tendrils for a softer, more playful style. If you're a hair-up kind of girl, messy buns look great, and are quick and easy to create. If you want to leave your locks down, backcomb the roots at the crown, tip your head upside down and scrunch spray with Redken Spray Starch 15, Dh70, for a volumised, tousled, sexy look, transforming sensible day hair into evening chic."
Q My teenage daughter has started to experience problems with her skin. Should I let her use my products?
A Definitely not! Teenage skin can't cope with the volume and potency of ingredients that come in beauty products aimed at older women and it will only make it worse. Dermalogica has just launched a new range called Clean Start, which has been designed in collaboration with teenagers. There are eight products altogether (all are free from fragrances, alcohol and artificial colourings) that tackle daily grime and breakout problems. Visit cleanstart.dermalogica.com for stockist and product information or call Dermalogica on 04-3398250. A
Q Whenever I try to conceal a nasty spot, I seem to make it look worse and it goes cakey. What is the best technique for applying concealer?
A The most common mistake made when covering up is applying too much makeup. First you should make sure the area is thoroughly cleansed, before applying an oil-free, mattifying lotion on the affected spot. This will help calm the blemish down and provide a good base for your concealer to sit on. Another mistake is dotting on concealer with your fingers — this is not just clumsy, it's also unhygenic. Sacrifice one of your clean makeup brushes — preferably a lip or thin eyebrow brush — as this way, concealer can be applied directly on to the blemish, as opposed to around it, and gets right into the creases. Finish by blending foundation powder over the top. Our favourite concealer is Estée Lauder Re-Nutriv Intensive Concealing Duo, Dh135.
Q I have just entered my 40s and want to keep my hair long, but all around me I see older women going for shorter hair. How can I avoid looking like mutton dressed as lamb?
A Raymond Moussa, hairstylist and owner of Moussa's salon (04-2242294) says, "Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles just because of your age. What style will suit you is down to how you feel about yourself — so if you feel young, modern and trendy, you should go for a hairstyle to match. I recommend a style that is layered on the sides and not too long and heavy at the back as this will weigh your look down. Give it some sliced layers, which shape the hair nicely. And remember, hair that is well-looked after always looks stylish, so keep it healthy and go for regular trims with a hairdresser you trust. Use the Tresemme Heat Defence Styling Spray, Dh42, on a daily basis — it's a light mist that will protect your hair against sun damage, not just from heat styling."
