And now for a prep talk…

Perk up your skin and pep up your make-up in one easy move with these hardworking ‘hybrids’

The other week I wrote about my current headliner skincare products keeping my complexion in good shape. Now I’d like to shine the spotlight on some of those products that lie in between skincare and cosmetics – they’re a little bit of one and the other at the same time.

First up is Hourglass and its new Vanish Airbrush Primer (1, €56.50, cultbeauty.com). It’s like a translucent serum that you put on after your skincare routine but before your foundation. Now I’m not usually a big primer wearer. So often I feel they make me appear more ‘done’ – like a full-on, card-carrying Make-up Wearer – whereas I’m much more of a natural look, but better, kind of a gal. It’s just my personal preference. However, this is a primer that even people who aren’t usually fans can get on board with. It feels like nothing on the skin yet delivers so much in results: it helps to blur lines, even out skin tone, can minimise the appearance of pores and absorb oil to control shine. Foundation does look that bit better for it. But crucially, for me, the result is natural rather than made up and skin still feels hydrated at the end of the day.

Also aiding the look and glow of make-up is Real Techniques Glow Finish Blend Extender

(2, €12.99, mccauley.ie). The brand recommends applying with its own dedicated Miracle Complexion Sponge (3, €6.99, boots.ie), which you can deploy either wet or dry. The spray is packed full of vitamins – including radiance-boosting vitamin C – as well as electrolytes to improve hydration, all of which contribute to the promised facial glow. As with the Hourglass primer, I apply this after skincare but before make-up and it really does make a difference. You can also spritz it on throughout the day if you feel you need a refresh, although I’ve found that a morning application is enough for me. 1 2

Lastly, for a serious complexion boost and to banish any dullness, try Biotherm Aqua-Gelée Face Self-Tanning Serum (4, €39.95 beautyshop.ie). It’s a clear formula, but still super easy to use: just pump a couple of drops, apply evenly and make sure you take it up to – but not on to – the hairline. Sweep any excess down your neck so you aren’t left with a tan line around your jaw. One use will give a bit of warmth but it’s easily buildable if you want more – just apply morning and evening to speed things up. It’s also a great unisex option and any man I know who has tried it has become a dedicated user.