National radio presenter and midlife make-up aficionado Pandora Christie shares the latest additions to her make-up box, with some great multi-taskers and beauty bargains.
Words: Pandora Christie. Images: Various brands, Shutterstock.
Bag a bargain lippy
You really can’t go wrong with the MINISO Classic & Elegant Matte Lipstick in Shade 12 (£4.99, minisoshop.co.uk). The formula is smooth, sleek and matte without drying – which is a rare find at this price point. Shade 12 is one of those easy, flattering colours that works just as well for daytime as it does for an evening out.
It lasts, it doesn’t smudge, and it feels light on the lips. Honestly, it’s the sort of lipstick I like to keep in my bag because I know it will pull any look together in seconds. Reliable, chic and budget-friendly – exactly what I want from an everyday lipstick. Definitely worth a try!
Preen brow queen
Cue winter as the perfect time for preening – and give eyebrows all your attention. The Doll Smash Sculpted Brow Pomade (£22, dollsmash.com) lets you define and shape with ease.
I love how just a little blended through the brows instantly lifts my face and makes me look more polished, even on no-make-up days. It builds fullness and precision without harsh lines, and the formula won’t smudge, fade or flake… perfect for taming those unruly brows.
Stroke of genius
The way your foundation is applied has everything to do with how it finishes. This No7 Oval Brush (£18.95, no7beauty.co.uk) will have your foundation or BB cream gliding on with extreme precision due to the extra bristles and denser brush head.
I apply my foundation direct to the brush head and then onto my face – it works best for me that way, leaving my skin with a really smooth finish. I have two: one for liquid foundation and one for loose power.
3-in-1 lip hero
Why juggle three products when one does it all? The Dr PAW PAW Nude Pout Tinted Lip Oil (£5.99, lookfantastic.com) is 98% natural and pulls triple duty as treatment, gloss and tint, with “pawpaw” (papaya) fruit to nourish, aloe vera to soothe, plus castor and olive oils for hydration that actually lasts. And the payoff? A dewy, high-shine finish with a stunning buildable nude tint you can wear sheer or bold.
Glow with gold
Nothing shouts “Glam!” than sweeping a bit of gold across your eyelids – and the Odylique Organic Eyeshadow in Gold (£8.50, blommabeauty.com) is just beautiful. Made with a skin-loving blend of plant extracts, natural clays and mineral pigments, this little gem is kind enough even for sensitive eyes.
The best bit? You can build it up as much (or as little) as you like – from a subtle daytime gleam to deep gold hue at night. Plus, the packaging has a sustainable edge, so your sparkle comes with a clear conscience. Nicely done!
Listen to Pandora on Heart FM from 10am-1pm weekdays. Follow her at instagram.com/pandorapresenter
