Expert beauty advice

Q l used to suffer from acne in my teens and even though I don't get it anymore, I still have quite a lot of scars, and not just on my face. Is there anything that can help?

A I was recently introduce to Bio-Oil (Dh70 or Dh100) by a friend who was using it to clear up scars from an accident, and she discovered it was also great for clearing up her face. The oil boasts a secret ingredient - Purcellin Oil - which acts as a ‘carrier' for Vitamin A and E, in turn making sure they are delivered directly to your skins' cells. The oil works to reduce scar visibilty, stretch marks and even out skin tone. You can apply it directly on to your face both morning and night (you may find you won't need an extralayer of moisturiser as it can be quite oily). For your body, again you can apply directly, or add five drops to your evening bath to help clear up any acne scars across your back. Available at Boots.

Q l'm really concious of the large pores around my nose and cheeks, what can I use to help reduce them?

A Large pores are a menace and ifyou're really suffering, then I suggestyou book in to see a dermatologist who can set you on the right skincare course. In the meantime, you can minimise their appearance with Benefit's POREfessional, Dh129. This nifty product is a translucent primer for your skin, which you can apply directly on to your problem zones to keep them covered. Because it has a nice lightweight texture, foundation sits easily on top of it, and you can even pat it on over your finished makeup throughout the day if you need a touch up.

Q l have a black tie dinner to go to and have my dress sorted, but I'm not sure what to do with my hair. I usually wear it straight, but I'd like to try some big-curls. I can't afford a trip to the salon - how can I get the look at home?

A Sacha Mascolo-Tarbuck, Toni & Guys Global Creative Director, says, "This is easily achieved by preparing the hair with Toni & Guy Beach Curl Spray (Dh39), and then scrunching a cocktail of Toni & Guy Soft Curl Cream (Dh45) and Toni & Guy Tame-It Serum (Dh63) through towel dried hair. Tong the hair in large sections, then gently break up and loosen the curls with your hands. Finish off with a spritz of Toni & Guy Hairspray for hold (Dh43)." Toni & Guy products are available at Boots and Spinneys.

Q l've recently had the stress of moving house and starting a new job. Unfortunately my skin is now paying for it. Can you recommend a good facial?

A It sounds like your skin is quite sensitive, so I wouldn't like to recommend one facial in particular. However, the Thai Privilege Spa has some wonderful fruit facials on the menu at the moment, and the very experienced facialist, Virginia, is happy to tailor-make a treatment to suit your individual needs. I recently had a combination of the orange facial and the problem skin facial to combat a breakout. Virginia took bits from each facial for what would work best for my skin. The orange facial uses an actual piece of orange directly on the skin, which then reaps the benefits. This is a great treatment for when your skin is feeling weather-worn. Call 04-3489679 to book an appointment with Virginia. A

Top tip

After cleansing and toning your face, rub a piece of ice over your skin - the coldness helps close your pores, preventing daily grime from clogging them up.