MARIE HELVIN

MARIE HELVIN, 65, modelled for designers including Yves Saint Laurent and Valentino. Once married to photographer David Bailey, she has mastered the art of looking great in front of, and away from, the camera.

As A model it’s been second nature to take care of my skin. I cleanse thoroughly twice a day. I have four or five different cleansers but the erno laszlo soap has been my staple for over 40 years. I remember when the brand first launched in Harrods in the seventies. The most sought-after product was the black soap, but it ruined my normal/dry skin and I soon switched to the gold one. I’ve used it ever since.

I don’t like people fussing round my face so I’ve maybe had five facials in my whole life. This Ren Facial mask is now the closest I get. It doesn’t feel like a mask, more like a serum and, afterwards, my face feels smooth, like it’s had a gentle peel.

As I’ve got older I realise you don’t have to spend a fortune on beauty. The Weleda night cream is great and not expensive. I use it everywhere — on my face, but also on my elbows and my knees.

And I buy the maybelline mascara in bulk when I’m in America where it’s even cheaper. It’s really thick — but perfect for me.