However, help is at hand – this is the definitive list of products that I’m going to be carrying around in my suitcase/handbag this summer, as they’ve smashed all my expectations and become tried and trusted allies. So, without any further ado, here’s my shortlist…
Clarins Double Serum: I’ve been using this wonder product (and no, I don’t use that term lightly) for a few months, and it’s definitely improved how my skin looks and feels. Winner.
Ark Anti-Ageing Skin Protector: It’s worth splashing out on this for the lovely smell alone. My skin felt smoother and looked more refined after using this – and the high SPF makes it perfect for holidays.
KeraStraight Protect: KeraStraight’s sun protection spray is essential for people who find their hair misbehaves the minute they get off the plane.
Moroccanoil: I’ve loved this stuff for years, and I was recently able to try their Glimmer Shine spray, which performs equally well. Even if you’ve got thin hair. Pop it on before you hit the beach and your hair will love you.
Origins GinZing moisturiser: Suffer with shiny skin? Not any more, you don’t – this delicious-smelling moisturiser works wonders, as promised.
Lash Fibres: I initially wondered how effective this product would be on my hard-to-please lashes, and I was pleasantly surprised. I use this every day – yes, I am a convert, and you will be too.
bareMinerals Prime Time: If you’re after a staple that you’ll use every day, it’s worth splashing out on this hardworking primer.
Lipsy Glam perfume: It took me a while to get to love this, as it’s very different to what I normally wear, but it’s never out of my handbag now. The bottle looks pretty cool, too.
L’Oreal: If you’re after a primer that’ll keep you shine-free and poreless all day, L’Oreal’s Studio Secrets Primer should be on your shopping list. Their nail varnishes last for yonks, too – my favourite’s Rouge Cancan.
Billion Dollar Brows: This kit is all you need to get your brows looking fab. The pencil’s especially good – and stays on all day.
P20: I used this sun cream on my holiday last year, and I’ll be doing the same this year, as it stayed put throughout swims and sunbathing with no problems.
L’Occitane’s Thirteen-Piece Delight Collection: This would make a perfect Mother’s Day gift, but you could always be selfish and keep it for yourself as the soaps are magnificent.
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Liz Earle Colour Signature Foundation: This foundation goes on like a dream and stays on all day – I even noticed that a somewhat-sweaty spinning class didn’t budge it.
Scaramouche & Fandango: You didn’t think I’d leave the boys out of this list, did you? My boyfriend, who is not known for his devotion to toiletry brands, has been using this shampoo and conditioner every day since apprehensively giving it a go. I think it’s fair to say he loves it.
Ayo: This body polisher is one of my new bathroom faves, as it performs brilliantly, especially when paired with the cloth it comes with. You only need to use it once a week to see results.
Naked Fake It: I’m frightened of fake tan, and I always will be, but this lotion was a) easy to use and b) looked great, and didn’t make me look like someone from TOWIE. Their shimmer powder adds a bit of sparkle, and a little goes a long way.
Lumière d’Opale: This shimmering, iridescent body oil looks fab paired with a tan. You won’t need to use too much, and the bottle lasts for ages.
Revlon: If you’re after a foundation that won’t budge on a budget, Revlon’s ColorStay is a good bet – if you use it sparingly afterwards, you won’t even need powder. Their gel eyeliner is equally good – and can be smudged easily if you’re after a less severe look.
Image credit: Thinkstock
