Question I am 14 and I really want to decorate my room. The only thing I don’t know what to do with is my wardrobe. Should I organise it in sections, colours or what goes with what? Jess, via e-mail. Answer We suggest breaking it up into sections. Try these sections which you can then […]

Question: I have dry skin but working in an air-conditioned office is making it even worse! I apply moisturiser every day and drink water through the day — what else can I do? Alison Slyns Answer: The best advice I can give you is to give yourself a moisturising mask once a week and a […]

Question I’m starting to get crow’s-feet. I know there are lots of great creams on the market, but why do we get wrinkles and how else can I avoid them besides using these creams? Ingrid, Caloundra, Qld. Answer Tom Mammone, director of Clinique Biological Research and Development, says, “Sunlight causes approximately 90 percent of what […]

Question: I never wear eyeshadow because I don’t know where to apply it, what colours to use or how many. Can you tell me what to use for the best effect? I have light-blue eyes. Vanessa, via e-mail. Answer: Richard Dean of Max Factor suggests some very simple rules to follow for foolproof, flattering eye […]

Question: My hair is broken from root to tip — how can I repair it? Sondra, via e-mail. Answer: “Just stop whatever you’re doing right now,” says Robert Maiolo of Maiolo Copeland Salon in Sydney’s Darlinghurst. “A few things could be causing the hair to break. One of the biggest offenders is the straightening iron. […]

Question: Could you tell me what make-up blotting paper is and where I can get it? K Answer: Blotting paper is very thin pieces of tissue paper with a dusting of translucent powder. You gently press them onto any shiny bits of your face to soak up excess oil. The Body Shop has a brand […]

Question My nails have become weak and flaky. I have recently started swimming and was wondering if it’s related to chlorine or other chemicals in the pool? Is there any way I can protect my nails so they will once again grow long and strong? Jacci, via email. Answer Nails are normally highly flexible and […]

Question How can I get rid of blackheads and stop my pores filling up with what causes them to form? Jane Markby, Glen Waverley, VIC. Answer “Blackheads are composed mainly of a mixture of sebum [the skin’s natural oil] and dead skin cells, which have oxidised at the surface of a follicle,” Emma Hobson, from […]

Question: I suddenly have a whole head of grey hair! What’s the best way to look after it? Sangetta, via email. Answer: Grey hair happens when the hair follicles stop producing melanin, the substance that gives colour to our hair. As we age, melanin production decreases, hence the increase in the appearance of grey hairs. […]

Question Is there a way to reduce cellulite? Shona Jackson, via email. Answer Dreaded cellulite can be made to appear less obvious in just a few weeks. It’s all to do with circulation. Cellulite consists of toxins and lymph fluid that have become trapped in the skin’s support tissue because of poor circulation. In its […]

Question What’s the best way to apply a fake tan? Liz Johns, via email. Answer Unless you’re a professional, you are bound to end up with a streak here and there, or patchy spots on your elbows and knees. “It pays to have a professional spray tan,” advises Martina Parker, from the Sydney-based mobile tanning […]

Question During summer, my skin seems to be a lot oilier. Is there anything I can do to counteract this? Lou Hampton, via email. Answer Some skin types may seem oilier in summer, but it may be that you are perspiring more, which can make oily-skin problems seem worse. Be careful not to over-cleanse in […]

Question I’ve been suffering from a few breakouts during the summer holidays and am not sure why. Is it something to do with the weather do you think? Sandra Aventis, via email. Answer “Take a look at your sunblock,” says Dr Tom Mammone, Clinique’s director of biological research and development. “There are two types of […]

Question I have terrible psoriasis and I’m dreading baring my skin with summer approaching. What’s the latest treatment? W. Harris, Surry Hills, NSW. Answer Dermatologist Dr Jo-Ann See explains that psoriasis is a skin condition partly caused by overactive T-cells in the immune system triggering an inflammatory reaction in the skin. This causes skin cells […]

Question: Could you please tell me what makes a lipstick long-wearing? I’m so confused by matt/demi-matt/cream/gloss formulations. Please explain! Sonia Schwartz, via email. Answer: “The longest lasting lipsticks are matte,” says Poppy King, colour designer for Prescriptives and former lipstick creator. “They have a high level of pigment and no shine. Pigments come in a […]

Question: Why does my hair colour fade so quickly in summer and what can I do to prevent it? P. Burke, Fitzroy, Vic. Answer: While long, hot summers and lazy days at the beach are some of the best things about living in Australia, a less desirable side effect is overexposure to the sun and […]

Question Is it appropriate for the mother of the bride to wear a black dress? If not, what would you advise? I don’t want to wear a fuddy duddy suit as everyone seems to be suggesting. Sue Thomas, via email. Answer Traditionally, black would not be the ideal colour for the mother of the bride. […]

Question I am going to the beach on the weekend and I haven’t lost any weight since I having my baby so I am quite large. What should I wear in the water? My thighs are covered in cellulite and I am a size 18. Brianna, via email. Answer Stripping down to your swimmers can […]

Question What colour and style heels would best suit a pale yellow, shimmery cocktail dress? Kim, via email. Answer Sounds like you need a strappy, gold or bronze shoe. Silver could also work if you had some silver jewellery to tie it all together. Look in stores like Zu, Betts, Mollini, Myer, David Jones, and […]

Question: How do I keep my eyeliner from smudging? I wear good foundation and concealer, but my eyes look like they have been out all night, while the rest of my face is glowing! Anna Cosic, via e-mail. Answer: “To start, you need to determine if it’s actually your eyeliner or your mascara that’s smudging,” […]

Question: What is the best treatment for removing vertical lines on your upper lip? Sue, via e-mail. Answer: According to Sophy Dennett, from the Avana Clinic in Bondi, Sydney, “The latest treatment that’s giving the best results for ridding lines above the mouth is Botox, an injectable substance used to temporarily paralyse muscle function. When […]

Question: I have reddish-brown hair and would like to dye it blonde, without having to spend a fortune at the hairdressers. How can I use home products? Tracey, via e-mail. Answer: It can be tricky dying brown hair with red undertones blonde without going “brassy”. When trying this yourself, the Schwarzkopf Advice Line suggests starting […]

Question: I have just had my hair permed and now I find it a little dry. What is the best product to put on my hair to help nourish it? Tania Atkins Answer: There are a number of over the counter treatments that you can buy to help nourish hair. My favourite is the VO5 […]

Question: I have tried almost every eyeliner on the market and spent a lot of money trying to find one that does not smudge under my eyes. It’s driving me crazy. Any suggestions? Tamara Answer: You need to apply a primer or foundation over your lids to allow your pencil to stay put. Once you’ve […]

Question: I am right-handed but the cuticles on my right hand are terrible. How can I get nice cuticles which will make my hands look better? Christine Answer: You need to apply a nourishing hand and cuticle cream such as Cutex Hand & Nail Cream. It is available at supermarkets, variety stores and chemists. Alternatively, […]

Question: I have really thin, straight hair, especially from the front — how can I get it to look fuller? Anita Answer: Start by using a volumising shampoo and conditioner and a styling mousse. When drying your hair use a large, round bristle brush first and then roll hair up into Velcro rollers. After you […]

When to plant your roses Now — spring to early summer. Because most roses bloom most magnificently in spring, so you can see them in bloom to choose which one you want to buy. Winter is the time to buy bare root roses, ones that have been dug out of the ground when they are […]

Shade Roses won’t bloom in dense shade. Check they haven’t been overgrown by a tree or shrub. Roses grown against the house wall may be shaded by the eaves as they grow taller. Prune them lower or cut away vegetation around them. Starvation If the flowers are small or lose their petals after a day […]

Question I’m a 30-year-old woman and my scalp is very oily. I colour my hair every 15 days to cover up the grey. My hair falls out a lot and has started to thin. What can I do to prevent this? Kiran Benjamin, via e-mail. Answer “Stop what you’re doing right now!” says hairstylist Andrew […]

Question I have terrible ingrown hairs on my bikini line from waxing. They are very painful, not to mention unsightly. Are there any treatments to stop them? Samantha Michelle, via e-mail. Answer If you’re prone to ingrown hairs, there’s nothing more frustrating than watching your beautiful, just-waxed bikini line erupting into a mass of red […]

Question: I’m getting married in March next year and I would like some help with how to apply my eyeshadow. I am going for the smoky/romantic/sexy look. I have blond hair and blue eyes. Thanks, Nikki Answer: If you are doing your own make-up, stock up on waterproof mascara and eyeliner. Apply a beige eyeshadow […]

Question: How do I know which foundation to use, and what brand do you suggest for a natural look? Thanks, Amber H Answer: For a natural look you need to use a liquid foundation and you need to apply it with a damp make-up sponge. My favourite brand at the moment is L’Oreal.

Question: Which is the best and most economical eye cream on the market? I have tried most — even collagen eye cream — nothing helps. Lee Answer: An eye cream is a must but your choice depends on what sort of problem you have. If you get dark circles you need a product that contains […]

Question: l have curly to wavy hair which is very thick. How can l wear my hair in a stylish way without always having it in a ponytail? Brooke Answer: Everyone I know is curling their hair! You have the perfect hair for all the backswept and up-dos around at the moment. What you need […]

Question After the winter months, my skin always looks so dull and dry. How can I freshen it up for spring? L. Davis, Croydon, NSW. Answer We spoke to dermatologist Karen Grossman, who suggests starting with a comprehensive skincare regimen. “Make sure you use a mild cleanser, followed with topical anti-oxidants and sunscreen every morning. […]

Question: Do I have wear eyeshadow that matches my eye colour? S. Lucas, Newmarket, Qld. Answer: Thank goodness the days when accessorising meant matching your bag to your shoes are long gone and the same applies to make-up. Forget co-ordinating lip and nail shades! Kent Vaughan, international make-up artist for Estée Lauder, says, “I like […]

Question: I’m sick of fighting my natural curls. How can I keep them looking good all day? B. Watson, Camberwell, Vic. Answer: Stylist Shane Henning offers the following curl-taming advice. “Only shampoo two or three times a week — hair needs some natural oils to help form the curls. Rinse with cool water, to close […]

Question: I want to get an eyelash perm. I just want to know if it’s safe and will it damage my eyelashes? Where is a good salon I can go to? Ava June Answer: I would suggest you invest in a great eyelash curler instead. There is no need to perm your lashes, especially with […]

Question: I have hazel eyes, brown hair and a warm skin tone. What eyeshadow would compliment my eyes for the day and evening? Thank you, Serena Beke Answer: You could wear just about any colour. But the lovely greens that are around would really bring out the colour of your eyes. Mix them up with […]

Question: I have a very pale face with a few freckles and have trouble finding eyeshadow and lipstick colours that look good and don’t make me look sick or paler. Can you suggest colours that will look good and are in fashion? Janelle Answer: You would probably look great with soft browns and apricot shades. […]

Question: I can never find an all-day lip gloss or lipstick. It either always rubs off or just somehow comes off. Please help, it’s really annoying! Taylah Answer: Max Factor and Rimmel have just released their latest smudge-proof lippies and glosses. They are available at your local supermarket.

Frost-free climates Plants for beauty: Seeds or seedlings of ageratum, alyssum, amaranthus, carnations, celosia, coleus, cosmos, dichondra, echinops, erigeron, gaillardia, gazania, gloxinia, gourds, hymenosporum, impatiens, nasturtiums, phlox, salvia. Very hot and dry gardens: move a shade cloth to cover veggie and flower gardens now to shelter them from the worst of the heat, pull out […]

Question Is there really an effective treatment for cellulite? Karen, via email Answer According to Howard Murad of UCLA (university of California Los Angeles) the answer is yes. “Cellulite is fat in the skin. No amount of exercising or liposuction will correct cellulite. It needs to be treated by repairing the damaged cell membranes and […]

Question I’m in my 40s and my skin is quite sun-damaged, with bad sun spots and pigmentation. What’s the most effective treatment? Erin, via email Answer Pigmentation and sun damage are closely related, but the good news is that both conditions can be reversed. Kaye Scott, director of The Clinic, in Sydney, says, “Intense pulsed […]

Question The skin on my neck is getting crepey and is not as firm as it used to be. Is there anything I can do to tone it up? Anne via email Answer Oil glands are scarce around the neck area, so the skin is very fragile and, according to Judith Korner of Madame Korner […]

Question: I’m thinking of getting microdermabrasion as I have a few minor acne scars. However, I’m under 21 and my skin is fairly sensitive. Is microdermabrasion recommended for any age? Kathryn Answer: Microdermabrasion is quite safe as long a qualified technician performs the treatment. I can highly recommend a clinic in Bondi Junction, NSW. Phone: […]

Hanging baskets are a cheat’s way to get early flowers. Baskets heat up faster than soil in the ground and you can hang them over nice hot paving, beside brick walls or on warm patios too. In fact you can REALLY cheat and buy your flowers already blooming – just bung them in the basket […]

Chokoes are a no-fail veg. Starve them, forget them, and they’ll still give you an autumn filled with so much fruit you’ll be pestering the neighbors to take some and looking up recipes for choko chutney, choko pie, choko and ginger jam (which isn’t bad, actually). My favourite way of eating chokoes depends on growing […]

Question I can never find a pair of jeans that really flatter my figure. I am not overweight, but in many jeans, my bottom looks too big. To compensate, I wear long, flowy tops to hide my bottom. I have lots of pretty, shorter tops that I love and I want to wear them with […]

Question Who does Botox suit? Kathryn, via e-mail Answer The best candidate for Botox is someone in their late 20s to early 50s who is concerned about wrinkle lines in their forehead region and around the eyes. Botox eliminates the frown lines temporarily and prevents long-term formation of permanent wrinkles. Unfortunately Botox can’t treat all […]

Question: I want to know how to choose the correct blush colour for my skin. Liz Answer: The best time to determine which colour best suits your complexion is to have a look at your flushed cheeks after a workout or shower — the natural flush is the best shade for you. The safest colour […]

Question: What products can be used to create a glossy look around the cheekbone area? I like the way Olivia Newton-John always has a healthy gloss look to her make-up. Jan Reynolds Answer: Pout cosmetics make a wonderful shimmer gloss that has a slight pink to it. It will give you the effect you are […]

Question: Hello Mary! About two months ago, I had my salon change my platinum blonde hair to a deep, dark auburn brown. I went through all the required things, like treatments, a new trim etc but now I’m considering going back to my blonde look. My hairdresser has told me that to go back blonde […]

Question: I have recently flown overseas and my skin and hair is very dry. I have exfoliated and used moisturising cream — what else can you suggest? Patsy Answer: You may need a professional facial as it sounds to me like your skin has some dry surface skin build-up or you may be using the […]

Question: When I wake up I have extremely puffy eyes! I moisturise the night before, and do not want to stop doing this, but I do think this might be the problem. Any quick and easy solutions? Clare Answer: You may be using a moisturiser nightly, which is great, but you really need to keep […]

Mooch around your garden before breakfast and see where it’s coldest, where frost has gathered, or where there seems to be a sunny, sheltered patch. Most gardens have these “microclimates” – cold spots where bulbs may thrive, warm spots where heat-lovers will thrive. Warm yourself up with some heavy work in the garden – dig […]

Frost-free climates Plants for beauty: any ornamental shrub in the nursery; seeds or seedlings of alyssum, Californian poppy, calendula, cleome, coleus, gerbera, helichrysum, honesty, impatiens, kangaroo paw, marigold, pansy, petunias, phlox, salvia, sunflower, Swan River daisy, torenia, zinnia. Temperate Plants for beauty: Bare-rooted or potted roses and other deciduous shrubs; seeds of alyssum, calendula, heartsease, […]

Which variety? Grow at least two varieties, or three, for better pollination, and choose Hass as one of those, as it ripens much later than the others so you’ll get fruit for longer. Avocadoes are VERY easy to grow from seed – but you MAY need two varieties to cross-pollinate each other or you won’t […]

Wondering how to grow kiwi fruit in Australia? Look no further.

Mulberries can be delicious, if they’re perfectly ripe and from a good tree. They will also stain clothes, fingers and paving, but that’s no excuse for not growing them – just bung them down the backyard where the kids can climb the tree and eat the fruit – just make sure they’re wearing old clothes […]

Which variety? Eureka lemons give year round fruit – a thick skinned, tough cold and heat resistant lemon. Most other lemons give most of their fruit in winter. Lisbon has the most beautiful flavour and aroma. How to grow Lemons need sun, frost protection and dislike wind, relatively rich soils and a reasonably constant supply […]

Which variety Usually only Nelly Kelly is a available – a good, vigorous passionfruit. Avoid seedlings, as they don’t grow as strongly as grafted ones. Banana passionfruit are best for cooler areas, with long yellow fruit, not as sweet as the black ones. In tropical areas try Granadillas too. How to grow My favourite passionfruit […]

Question What’s the difference between a moisturiser and a serum? Should I be using both? Sally, via email. Answer Moisturisers hydrate the upper layers of the skin and generally come in a cream form. By comparison, a serum can deliver potent ingredients which repair and restore long-term changes in the skin through a lightweight, gel-like […]

Question Is there a secret to making fragrance last longer? Janet, via email. Answer The secret to making fragrance last longer is layering. Build up layers of scent on the skin by using different forms of the same fragrance – perfumed soap, bath oil or gel, body lotion or cream, dusting powder and eau de […]

Question: What sort of hairstyle would suit a square shaped face and chin? Kay, via email. Answer: A good cut that suits your face shape is important to flatter your features. For a square shaped face you should choose any style with an off-centre parting, graduated layers or soft curls. However, if you have a […]

Question: I’ve been quite sick with the flu. Do you have any beauty tips so I can make myself look better when I go back to work? Anon. Answer: Dab yellowish concealer over any redness, especially around the nose. Apply tinted moisturiser to bring back your glow, then add a creamy pink blush. Use clear […]

Question: I usually use a facial scrub every two weeks but was wondering if I should do it more often because my skin gets very dry and flaky. Kylie Answer: Use an exfoliant once a week for dry skin, up to twice a week for combination skin and every other day for oily skin.

Question: For eyebrows that have been over-plucked, what options are available to fix the problem other than tattooing? Vivian Thai Answer: Investing in a great eyebrow kit which contains a powder and cream eye-shadow and a pencil is one solution. Laura Mercier has a great kit, which is available at David Jones. I would also […]

Woman’s Day beauty editor Mary Zavaglia headed to Denmark to interview ‘facialist to the stars’ Ole Henriksen, the LA-based Dane who advises Mary on skincare, and Soren Hedegaard, the Princess’s personal make-up artist. Ole Henriksen is the man responsible for Princess Mary’s healthy, glowing complexion. His products are delivered to the Palace, and when Ole […]

Mary’s favourite make-up artist Soren Hedegaard shares his tips for modern beauty. Soren Hedegaard has helped polish Princess Mary’s appearance on many occasions. We asked him to share some of his tips and views on the latest trends. What brand of make-up do you use? I am using a simple and effective Danish make-up range […]

Question: I have wavy hair with a huge cowlick at the front. I desperately want a fringe but know that’s fairly impossible for people with cowlicks. Is there any fringe I can get apart from longish bits framing my face? Abbie Answer: Unfortunately, no. If your cowlick wasn’t as strong you could get away with […]

Question: Are facials essential once a month for great skin or is a good moisturiser more than enough? I know facials are nice but are they a waste of money? Hailee Answer: Facials, if you can afford them, are great, as the massage that the therapist gives you stimulates the skin. It’s almost like a […]

Frost-free climates Plants for beauty: alyssum, Californian poppy, calendula, cleome, coleus, gerbera, helichrysum, honesty, marigold, pansy, petunias, phlox, salvia, sunflower, sweet peas, torenia, zinnia. Temperate Plants for beauty: seeds of alyssum, calendula, English daisy (pictured), heartsease, lunaria; seedlings of evening primrose, gazanias, Iceland poppy, love-lies-bleeding, pansies, polyanthus, primulas, sweet peas, viola. Cold Plants for beauty: […]

Question What type of make up can I get to disguise the black bags or circles under the eyes? Margaret, via email. Answer Disguising black bags or circles is notoriously difficult, however a proper concealer should do the trick. Concealers come in three forms: liquid, cream and stick. For darker circles a liquid concealer probably […]

Question I use night cream during day and also at night to moisturise my skin. I feel comfortable in it as it provides all day moisturising. Are night creams also suitable for daytime use? Swati Dave, via email. Answer Technically, night creams are designed for night use. They’re usually a thicker consistency and provide reparative […]

Question: I go off to work each morning wearing foundation and makeup, including mascara. I find throughout the day my mascara smudges just a bit under my eyes. Can you please tell me why it’s smudging? Am I wearing too much foundation? Lyndy, via email. Answer: Mascara smudges around the eye due to too much […]

Question: What are the best beauty investments I can make? Is it buying the best skincare? Having regular facials? Going to the hairdresser? Please streamline my beauty budget. Irene, via e-mail. Answer: There are lots of good beauty investments, but I have a few must-have suggestions for you. A compact mirror with a normal mirror […]

Question: My nails are really weak and brittle. They split before they even have the chance to grow and they grow really slowly. Is there anything I can do or any products I can use to strengthen them? I have been told this is due to lack of water intake but I drink about two […]

Question: For a general all-over body moisturising cream, is Sorbolene better than Vitamin E? Please note there are stretch marks here to eliminate also. Deb Answer: Sorbelene cream will not eliminate stretch marks. There are, however, a number of over the counter products available, such as Skin Doctors Stretch Away Stretch Mark Reduction Cream, which […]

Question I never know how to select the correct colour foundation for my skin tone – a friend advised me that because I am fair with pink undertones, I should look for a more yellow-based foundation. Is this true, or should I be trying to match my skin colour? Narelle, via email. Answer When selecting […]

Question I have very soft nails. Is there anyway I can strengthen them? Kim, via email. Answer In order to strengthen weak nails you need to start by keeping them short, rubbing lanolin in every day and keeping the cuticles pushed back so they grow strong from the base. Also, using a three-way buffer, use […]

Question: I want to dye my hair at home, but when I go to the chemist to by a colour I get really confused by what type of dye to buy? I’m a bit nervous about it because I don’t want to do something shocking to my hair! Please help! Kate, via email. Answer: Depending […]

Question: I have dark circles — not bags — under my eyes. Regarding make-up, what is the best way to conceal them? Which concealer should I use? Marie Answer: You need to invest in a pink-based concealer. Lancôme have a wonderful compact that you should look at. Also, any eye cream that contains Vitamin K […]

Question: How do I apply eyeliner on the bottom of my eyelash line without putting eyeliner in my eye? I have small eyes and can never seem to make the bottom part of my eyes look bigger. Help! Carol Answer: If you want your eyes to look bigger, avoid applying eyeshadow and eyeliner to the […]

Question: I am nearly 40 and have noticed the wrinkles on my face are quite pronounced. I don’t want Botox. Are there any products that can help me to reduce the signs of aging? Steph Answer: Yes, there are a number of different companies that have creams specifically designed to relax wrinkles. Avon has a […]

Question: I usually have good skin but when I have breakouts, I can’t seem to conceal them properly. What should I do? Ann Bui Answer: The best thing to use is a medicated concealer — I recommend the Bonne Bell one. I would also suggest that you invest in a range of skin care products […]

Question: It’s fine if you have time to use curling tongs, but what if you don’t? Is there a cream you can put in your hair that will make it curly? There are hair straightening products — are there hair curling products? Stephanie Ross Answer: Yes, there are a number of products you can use […]

Question Do you know the long term effect of bleaching the hair on ones face? Will it get thicker? Do I need to moisturise more? I would like to know more please. Lorraine, via email. Answer Bleaching your hair won’t cause it to get thicker, but it could irritate your skin and there is always […]

Question I’m a little confused about body exfoliants. Why use them? Do they actually do anything? Which one is the best to use on the body? And how do I use them? Sam, via email. Answer I hope I can assist in clearing up your confusion. Firstly, you need to exfoliate your body twice a […]

Question I’ve noticed with age that I have developed cracked heals. Is there anything that I can do to stop this from happening? Joan, via email. Answer Cracked, dry and/or calloused heels can generally be blamed on open backed sandals or slides. Cracks occur when the skin is too dry or too thick, so you […]

Question I was just wondering if you could provide me with some insider tips on how to apply eye shadow like a pro. I find when I apply it, a greasy looking crease forms on my eyelids. Emma, via email. Answer To start with, you need the right tools. The best shape brush is one […]

Question: Hope you can help! Can you tell me what make-up ranges have a foundation that does NOT contain SPF? I get an allergic reaction even to the ones with only 5% SPF and it would seem that every foundation i pick up in the stores has a SPF in it. I have been using […]

Question: I am newly arrived in Australia from the United States. I have been advised that tipping employees of many establishments is not customary here. My question is: do I tip the hairdresser and beauty therapist? I want to make sure I am giving my girls proper compensation. Melissa, via email. Answer: No, unlike the […]

Question: I have blue eyes. What colour eyeshadow should I use to bring out my eyes? Thanks. Kelly Sloan Answer: The best colours are warm browns and of course, the new pastel blues that are available. Keep the rest of your make-up simple and wear a lip-gloss instead of lipstick.

Turn those horrible stretches of concrete out the back or front of the house into flowers and greenery with these six tricks to make your balcony flourish.

Question: I have a lot of trouble with blackheads on my nose. I have tried everything — pore strips, cleansing, toning, steaming, creams, but nothing seems to work. Is there a new way to solve this ugly problem? Chanelle Answer: I think what you need is a proper deep clean from a professional beauty therapist. […]

Question: I wear contact lenses and my eyeliner has a tendency to run away by the end of the day. Is there such a thing as waterproof eyeliner? Grace Answer: Companies such as L’Oreal and Maybelline have smudge-proof eyeliners, but not waterproof. However, one tip is to keep your eyeliners in the fridge so they […]

Question: I don’t wear make-up on a regular basis and need to find something simple that I can wear every day. I can’t seem to find a foundation that suits my extremely pale skin — any ideas? Lisa Answer: For starters, go shopping armed with a mirror. Go to one of the make-up counters of […]

Question: I have recently bleached my hair and it is extremely coarse and brittle, and breaks off after each wash. Will protein spray help strengthen it? Leesa Answer: Yes, but once hair starts to break off you would be better off going for a very short style and having professional protein treatments at a salon. […]

Question: I have very curly, wavy, bushy-type hair. I want to do different things to it every day but there’s just no style for my hair that suits me. Can you please help me? I’m sick of going everywhere with the same hairstyle every day. I need help! Genevieve Answer: There are numerous products on […]