Miracle workers

We’ve all had an unfamiliar beauty challenge crop up that we’re not sure how to fix. It could be dark circles under our eyes, a blemish that makes a sudden appearance before a big event, or a new hair colour that turns into a disaster. But here’s some good news, in most case there’s no need to panic, there is a quick-fix miracle solution and we’ve found it.

Diminish fine lines around eyes
Electric light can add lines and shadows that don’t really exist. So before you become too critical about around eye ageing, check how you look in natural light. Wearing an eye cream will protect this delicate area from time and UV rays. Try L’Oréal Plenitude Revitalift Eye, $62, that helps minimise the appearance of fine lines or In Essence Aromatherapy Express Eye Lift, $59.95, that contains powerful skin-firming marine extracts as well as vitamins A, E and rosehip oil to nourish and protect. For an instant pick-me-up, make-up artist Kimberley Forbes recommends the SK-II Signs Eye Mask, $120 for 14 pairs, that provides a moisture boost that lasts up to 12 hours.

Fix broken nails
Brittle nails can be a symptom of iron deficiency, says naturopath Deborah Cooper, author of Women’s Health in Women’s Hands (Random House, 1999). So boost the amount of dark green, leafy vegetables in your diet and add a little more lean red meat. Taking a regular silicone supplement can help strengthen nails, as can a product like Avon Nail Experts Strong Results Length and Strength Complex, $10.99, that contains an oil complex and AHAs. 

Banish dark under-eye circles
Skimping on beauty sleep or water can cast a shadow on your looks. But if your lifestyle’s not to blame, dark circles may simply be due to age or genetics, says Marionne De Candia, spa director at Rae’s on Watego’s, in New South Wales. Your skin thins with age, so underlying veins and tissues begin to show through, she says. Try Estée Lauder Future Perfect Anti-Wrinkle Radiance Eye Creme, $83, that contains fine pigments and soft-focus powder to downplay dark circles; or Avon’s Anew Clinical Eye Lift, $49.99. A touch of concealer can also help disguise shadows. Use it after applying your foundation, not before, as this moves the concealer, says Sydney-based beauty therapist Trudi Ritchie. She recommends ID Bare Escentuals mineral make-up that can be pressed on with a brush and not rubbed into the skin.

Say goodbye to cellulite
We know you want orange-peel skin gone right this minute, but try dry body brushing before you shower each morning to rev up circulation and help eliminate impurities and you’ll soon see results. Regular exercise, especially with weights, as well as a low-fat, high-fibre diet low in toxins such as caffeine, sugar and alcohol will also help. Mim Beim and Jan Castorina, authors of Help Yourself (Doubleday, 1999) suggest taking pectin, a water-soluble fibre with detoxifying properties, or the herb gotu kola which is reputed to help diminish cellulite. Clarins Total Body Lift, $69, uses caffeine, geranium and mint oil to encourage drainage and improve the quality of the skin surface; while Thalgo Gommage Thalgomince, $55, helps activate circulation and drain tissue before Crème Thalgomince LC24, $90, is applied. In Essence Aromatherapy Body Firming Solution, $39.95, goes to work with purifying juniper, cypress and grapefruit as well as stimulating rosemary and lavender. For a professional spa treatment, try Skeyndor Cellulite Reduction, that uses a combination of ultrasound and pressure/suction. $189 per session. 

Soothe cracked lips

Dry, sore lips can be a sign you need B vitamins as lips tend to dry out under stress. Consider taking a supplement. Wind and heat can also take their toll so hair and make-up artist Nadine Monley always carries Lucas’ Paw Paw Ointment, $9.10, in her professional make-up kit. It nourishes and soothes cracked lips as well as the skin on hands and feet.

Words: Helen Hawkes.  Photography: Corrie Bond.  Make-up: Claire Thompson