The Little Black Book Of SL's Beauty Editor
To cleanse…
I absolutely swear by micellar waters when it comes to cleansing. It’s partly because they’re easy and don’t require 10 different steps and don’t overload the skin. Nothing is more of an irritant than slathering on six different brands and blocking your pores. My favourites are Bioderma’s cult Sensibio H20 and Garnier’s Micellar Water for sensitive skin. Both feel fresh like a toner but contain microscopic oil spheres that cleanse without stripping. If you’re not already, I guarantee you’ll become addicted.
On eyes…
I’m an absolute mascara fiend and have tried countless formulas over the years. But I’m a sucker for ones that contain dual brushes for different effects. My current go-to is Pixi by Petra’s LashLift 188 Mascara. The bigger brush delivers full, inky lashes in one swipe, while the smaller brush makes lashes look super natural, like they’ve just had a subtle tint and lift.
Favourite fragrance…
Tom Ford White Suede will always be the love of my perfume life. It’s an addictive mix of musk, rose and leather. It’s also very warming and comforting – perfect for winter, though I do wear it all year-round.
Hydration hero…
Clinique’s Moisture Surge is an everyday essential for me with hyaluronic acid and aloe water keeping my skin hydrated and bright. My complexion is noticeably duller when I’ve skipped using it.
For lipstick I love…
There are so many lip products I could wax lyrical about, but the one that stands out for me is Laura Mercier’s Velour Extreme Matte Lipsticks. They appear like twist-up eyeshadow sticks, but for lips and the rounded tip makes them so easy to use. They sculpt even the thinnest of lips (like mine) and leave a pretty, opaque finish. My go-to shade is ‘Control’, a deep wine burgundy that suits most skin tones.
To repair hair…
L’Ore Originals launched their haircare range in 2018 and I’ve been using their cult ‘Legend’ mask ever since. Packed with amino acids and vegetable-protein, it works to strengthen broken strands, which is perfect when for me when bleach has taken its toll. Another bonus is the mask comes in single-use sachets – great for holidays, but also a handy way of knowing exactly how much product you need.
Quick skin fixes…
I’m a big fan of sheet masks especially when my skin needs a quick-fix, and South Korean brand Seoulista delivers speedy results every time. The sheets all target different skincare concerns and are packed with everything from brightening vitamin C to AHAs that leave your face looking even and refined. They also do masks for hands and feet which are a real treat for knackered, dry skin.
Brow buys…
I can’t choose between Benefit’s Gimme Brow and Glossier’s Boy Brow, both gels give great colour and so easy to use. Nothing whips my arches into shape quite like them and they deposit even amounts of pigment that’s never lumpy or too dark.
For a glowing base…
I never stop raving about Lumene’s Instant Glow Beauty Serum (I promise I’m not sponsored) and for good reason. It gives skin a sheer finish that’s like a glowing Instagram filter. It’s radiance in a bottle and I just can’t get enough of it. I always have two on rotation in case I suddenly run out.
Quick fire-round:
1. Best place to get a facial? I love the Elemis speed spa. Tucked away in Mayfair it offers something for everyone – and every budget. But their facials stand out for me, for the dewy, radiant results they give.
2. Where do you go for hair colour? Lustig & Webb back home in Brighton. I’ve been seeing Stephen Webb (fun fact: he’s off Gogglebox, for those who love the show) for years and am very loyal to him, he really understands blondes. But for a speedy overhaul in London? It would have to be John Frieda; I love their Margaret Street salon.
3. One desert island beauty product? Mascara. You’d be hard-pushed to ever find me not wearing it.
4. Any niche products you love? DHC Virgin Oil Cotton Swabs are amazing. I frequently mess up my eye make-up and have these to hand. They’re pre-soaked and make quick work of removing any errors – honestly, everyone should own a pack.
5. What’s your favourite budget beauty buy? OGX shampoo and conditioners from Boots. My favourite is biotin & collagen for the addictive smell, plumping results and the fact that it’s under £5.
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