Beauty solutions
Our beauty team answers all your questions
Q Is there an easy way to keep on top of dyeing my hair? It’s such a laborious process and I don’t want to pay to go to the salon. Sarah Smith, 50 A Unless you want to embrace your natural hue (or you’re one of those lucky people who hasn’t got a single speck of silver) then colouring your hair is an inevitable part of the ageing process. However, with a good root concealer you can blend regrowth to save money at the salon and extend the time between your dye jobs. Sprays are great when you’re in a hurry – just pull the hair taut then mist over your parting. If you have more time and just a sprinkling of grey, use a powder or touch-up stick for a flawless finish. Q I really wish my pores weren’t so noticeable. Is there anything I can do to shrink them? Kate White, 41 A Sadly, there’s no getting rid of pores, but there are things you can do to make them less noticeable. Excess oil stretches pores, so start by adopting a thorough cleansing regime with an oil-sapping foam cleanser. A weekly clay mask will also help to draw out oil and water to shrink the look of pores temporarily. For an instant fix, use a pore putty, which works like Polyfilla for your face, filling in pores for a more refined, even complexion. Q A My make-up never seems to make it past lunchtime. How can I get it to stay where I want it? Cheryl Irving, 59 Primer is the answer. It seals in your moisturiser and creates a smooth, even canvas for your make-up. If you have combination or oily skin, look for a foundation with ‘matte’ or ‘oil-free’ on the packaging to help prevent a slip up – literally! Apply the rest of your make-up in light layers and set your finished look with powder.