I thought using our hands to blend moisturiser into our complexion was a given, that was until I saw Reese Witherspoon's rather unusual skincare application method and I questioned whether I was doing it all wrong.

Your skincare arsenal most likely makes home to one of the best cleansers or perhaps the best hyaluronic acid serum for a hit of hydration. But, when it comes to application, one thing's for certain, our palms are one of the most used (and most effective) tools we're equipped with.

So, you can only imagine how taken aback we were when we saw Reese Witherspoon's unconventional application method of choice for one of the best face moisturisers. As someone who is always raring to trial new beauty tricks, naturally, I just had to try the uncommon method for myself to see whether it actually made a difference to my skincare routine. Plus, we get an expert dermatologist's opinion as to whether it helps or hinders the health of your skin.

My honest review of Reese Witherspoon's unusual moisturiser application trick

Posting a 'Get Ready With Me' style video to YouTube, Witherspoon lifted the lid on her go-to three step skincare routine to help prep and hydrate her complexion. While we were excited to get a peek into her beauty collection, it was her method of choice that left us intrigued.

After applying her eye cream in order to boost hydration, the actress began applying her rose-infused moisturiser with the tips of her fingers before revealing her top tip: "I’m going to show you what I do sometimes, which is take a little brush and brush it in," she says. Witherspoon adds: "It kind of goes in deeper and is really brightening."

Expert dermatologist weighs in on the method

We must admit, this trick left us slightly bewildered, so naturally we called in Dr Jonathan Kentley, consultant dermatologist at Montrose London and The Lister Hospital, to share his expert opinion: "Applying skincare with a brush is not generally necessary, but it can be beneficial in certain situations." While there aren't many clear advantages to using a brush for your skincare, Kentley notes: "It allows for a smooth and even distribution of product, particularly with thick masks or treatments [and] it can also be more hygienic if the brush is properly cleaned, as it prevents bacteria from transferring from the fingers to the face."

That said, there are also potential downsides to adopting the actress' methods, the consultant dermatologist stresses: "If the brush is not cleaned regularly, it can harbour bacteria, leading to breakouts or irritation." Kentley particularly advises anyone with sensitive or acne-prone skin to avoid trialling this trick: "Overuse of a brush, especially with firm bristles, may also cause unnecessary friction on the skin, which can compromise the skin barrier over time. For those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, this added friction could lead to redness or flare-ups."

As for the application method Kentley does recommend for your skincare routine, he suggests: "For daily skincare like serums and moisturisers, using clean hands is typically the best approach."

My verdict on Reese Witherspoon's moisturiser trick

Despite my scepticism, I decided to try my hand at this intriguing skincare application trick. Although I have used brushes in the past to apply the likes of the best face masks or face tanning drops, there was something about this method that felt strange - perhaps as I've always applied my moisturiser with my hands and nothing else.

Once applied, it felt like it sat on the top of my skin rather than sinking in, which did give my complexion a smooth, hydrated and tackier-feeling base which helped give my makeup something to stick to for a seamless appearance. However, I think I would need to use more product than I usually would, as the brush soaked up a lot of the moisturiser.

As someone with fairly sensitive, blemish-prone skin (and a slight germaphobe), the lack of cleanliness of the brush after continued use does concern me. The thought of it being a hub for breeding bacteria is enough to put me off this trick - albeit a luxe method of application. In all honesty, I found this trick to be slightly unnecessary, I didn't see any revolutionary changes to both my skin and makeup application that would make me incorporate this application method into my daily routine.

A sneak peak into Reese Witherspoon's skincare arsenal

For those intrigued by Witherspoon's skincare arsenal, we've rounded up her go-to buys featured in her three step morning routine, to prep her complexion ahead of long filming days.

Offering intense hydration and nourishment, this £10 celebrity-loved moisturiser is a cult classic, must-have buy for the colder winter months - and it now has 45% off...

With the bitter weather in full swing, your complexion is likely to be showing the classic winter skin signs we try to avoid, meaning you may find yourself reaching for the best face moisturiser or one of the best face masks for a hydration boost.

While we'll always happily listen to any celebrity skincare recommendation, especially during times like this, they can also often boast a hefty price tag that makes them somewhat unattainable. Thankfully, this iconic Nivea Creme is both A-list-approved and kind on the purse strings - oh, and it's currently on sale for even less, making now the perfect time to snap it up...

The affordable moisturising cream that many A-listers swear by

While Nivea Creme is touted as an affordable alternative to La Mer's luxury Creme De La Mer on social media, it's the iconic cream's celebrity clientele and drugstore price tag that makes it a must-have buy.

Speaking in an interview with the Express, actress Joanna Page admitted she steers clear of high-end skincare buys, instead relying on the £10 cult classic cream: “I love Nivea and I stick to the cheapest one as expensive moisturisers bring me out in spots.”

But it's not just Page who raves about this cream, her Gavin & Stacey castmate, Alison Steadman revealed in an interview with The Mirror that she also loves Nivea Creme - while it's rumoured to be loved by Dame Joan Collins and Kate Winslet, too.

It may be a popular item in a celeb's skincare arsenal, but the moisturising formula is loved by many, just one glance at Amazon shows nearly 7000 reviews, with an impressive average of 4.7 stars out of five...

This affordable buy doesn't just have celebrity fans, it's also hailed as a skincare staple by woman&home's Ecommerce Editor, Heidi Scrimgeour, who casts her luxury moisturisers aside when she requires the ultimate hydration hit: "I'm a BIG fan of fancy face creams, but post-40, sometimes I just need a really rich moisturiser to combat dry and dull skin, especially in winter."

Relying on the trusty tin to quench her thirsty complexion, Heidi opts for applying it overnight so it can work its moisturising magic as she sleeps: "It's a bit like needing a big drink of water for my skin as it changes due to perimenopause, so at times like that I love a big dollop of Nivea Creme - especially overnight as it's a bit too thick to wear under my daily makeup."

But it's not just any old face moisturiser, Heidi also highlights the versatile nourishing nature of this nifty buy: "Even though I don't use it every day, it's a good one to keep in my handbag for all sorts of little skincare needs: from smoothing dry elbows and soothing chapped lips to recovering from all the extra hours with my hands spent in dishwater over Christmas!"

With an indulgent, butter-like texture, this richly nourishing and hydrating face cream is the gift my post-festive season skin has been yearning for - and here's why you should invest too...

The new year is the perfect time to treat your skin to some well-deserved TLC, whether that be with the best face moisturiser or the best face masks. The festive season is full of fun, late nights and social gatherings, but your skin can often take the brunt of it all.

Thankfully, I have just the moisturiser for the job in my go-to skincare arsenal. With a cocktail of skin-loving ingredients that offer long-lasting hydration, here's why I'm turning to Dr.Jart+'s Ceramidin Cream to combat the effects of winter and the party season.

The only moisturiser I'll be using to nourish my tired, post-festive season skin

I swear by Dr.Jart+ as a skincare brand, and I have done ever since I first tried their products last year - honestly, you'll never be able to stop me raving about their Cicapair Tiger Grass Colour Correcting Treatment. So, naturally, I had high expectations for this Ceramidin Cream, and (spoiler) it went above and beyond what I had imagined...

I first tried this moisturiser after a long day at a spa, and I must admit, I had simply chucked the compact tube into my bag due to its travel-friendly design, in order to give me a quick hit of hydration. You can imagine how dry and parched my skin felt after sitting in hot tubs and swimming in chlorinated pools, but as soon as this moisturiser touched my face, it immediately quenched my complexion's thirst.

While it boasts an incredibly thick buttery consistency, it also doesn't weigh your skin down - a huge plus point in my book. My blemish-prone combination skin can be incredibly unpredictable (it flits between dry and oily day-to-day) but this cream thoroughly hydrates and nourishes my complexion - without breaking me out.

I found my skin felt noticeably moisturised for hours after application, and it even works very well as a smoothing base before makeup - plus, it gets extra points for not pilling underneath. Its indulgent formula works as an instant boost of hydration, especially when your skin is feeling particularly dull, dry and tired, making it the perfect treat for your skin to combat the festive season blues.

Although this buy is on the pricier side of moisturisers, a little does go a long way. It has a super nourishing formula, so you only need a pea-sized amount to moisturise your entire complexion. To top it all off, it also boasts a subtle spa-like scent that only enhances the skincare application experience.

With our jobs quite literally being to test an array of different of beauty products, it’s no surprise that our team have collectively reviewed dozens of moisturisers - from high-end to budget, and everything in between.

Since being founded back 2009, Tatcha has gone on to become a globally-known brand thanks to their lineup of luxury Japanese skincare, including the best face moisturisers and the best vitamin C serum. Even if you’re not acquainted with the brand, you might still recognise their Dewy Skin Cream, housed in its iconic purple tub and dressed with an opulent gold spatula, as one of the best Tatcha products.

Despite its gorgeous packaging, it’s the formula nestled inside that has impressed our entire beauty team, so much so that it has earned a spot in our daily skincare routines. We’re talking, a much-needed dose of hydration (which we’re especially grateful for as the temperatures begin to dip) that leaves us with the smooth, plump and radiant complexions we’ve been longing for. Here’s why the cult classic face cream is a worthy investment this winter…

Why Tatcha's Dewy Skin Cream is the moisturiser we've been dreaming of

Coinciding with the rise in popularity of the glass skin trend, Tatcha's Dewy Skin Cream gained cult status in the beauty world thanks to its hydrating and glow-boosting formula. As for its luxurious packaging, the moisturiser is housed in an opulent, heavyweight lilac pot, equipped with a beautiful gold metal spatula located on its lid.

While our beauty team are avid users of this moisturiser (we'll never stop raving at how impressive it is), it's also rumoured to have a number of celebrity fans, including the likes of Meghan Markle and Jennifer Aniston...

Digital Beauty Writer, Sennen Prickett hails Tatcha's Dewy Skin Cream for its ability to unlock a healthy, radiant complexion on her combination skin type. She says: "It hydrates dry patches on my combination skin excellently, without any irritation or leaving a greasy film. For the most part, the formula dries down to a comfortable tackiness while also locking in the moisture all day long, leaving my skin with a supple bounce."

Not to mention, it passes the test when worn underneath a full-face of makeup too, Sennen adds: "Whether I'm having a no-makeup day or opting for full coverage, its hydrating formula makes a perfect base for makeup - especially as it doesn't pill."

It might be on the pricier side of moisturisers available on the market, but Sennen notes: "A little does go a long way, with just a pea-sized amount needed to moisturise your entire complexion," meaning a tub will last you a fair while before having to replenish your stock.

After hearing our team's raving reviews, Digital Beauty Writer, Naomi Jamieson had to get in on the action by trying the Dewy Skin Cream for herself - and hasn't looked back since. "I have dry skin, but am also someone who loves dewy-looking makeup (a tragic combination), so naturally, I'm always on the lookout for a daily moisturiser that can supercharge my skin with hydration, while also working harmoniously with my foundation and other base products to give me a healthy glow," says Naomi.

As for the formula, it easily ticks both of Naomi's boxes, she says: "It's luxuriously thick and enriched with nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, red algae and Japanese Purple Rice, and always leaves my complexion looking fresh, plump and incredibly radiant."

But it doesn't stop there, our Beauty Ecommerce Editor, Aleesha Badkar is also a fan of the luxurious moisturiser, she says: "I love the velvety satiny texture of Tatcha's Dewy Skin Cream, it feels incredibly comforting and nourishing on the skin - without giving the complexion an oily appearance."

Not to mention, Aleesha also praises this formula's layering abilities: "It also layers well with serums, sunscreen and makeup, giving the skin an even, glowy and almost photo-like finish."

Alternative hydrating moisturisers

While Tatcha's Dewy Skin Cream has become a staple in my everyday beauty routine this season, we can appreciate that it is on the pricier side of skincare buys. However, there are some great alternatives that provide similar results and boast slightly more affordable price tags, such as picks from Glow Recipe and Beauty Pie...

Victoria Beckham's morning skincare routine is so simple, with just three steps - and a handy de-bloating trick - to her radiant glow.

Having worked for years now with skincare experts on her own products, we're always interested to hear what Victoria Beckham uses herself. So when she revealed the details of her morning skincare routine, we were all ears.

And pleasantly surprised to learn that we wouldn't need to spend, well, anything really because her top skincare advice is all about the way you apply products, not necessarily which products you use - though she does have a few beauty favourites our beauty team swear by.

Taking to Instagram post-shower with her hair expertly wrapped up in a towel, Victoria shared the ins-and-outs of her simple three-step skincare routine.

Starting by cleansing her face to remove any oil and product residue from her nighttime routine, Victoria applied her beauty brand's Cell Rejuvenating Power Serum to the skin. The serum is formulated with calming niacinamide to reduce redness and boost radiance – but it's the way you apply it, or any serum of your choice, that brings noticeable benefits to the texture of your skin.

Victoria explained that she 'presses the product into' her skin and 'really, really pushes' with the palms of her hands and her fingertips to massage it in. This, she says, helps to combat any puffiness or 'bloating' on the face and she 'pays special attention to the eye area' when doing this to help minimise the appearance of fine lines.

She also uses this massaging, pressing motion when applying her moisturiser. "I also press this into the skin and then use upward motions to massage the formula in," she said. "It gives the skin such a beautiful radiance."

Shop Victoria Beckham's Skincare Favourites

As Beckham's go-to serum is on the more premium side, we've also rounded up a few of her budget-friendly beauty buys, like Weleda's Skin Food, to consider.

Boosting the elasticity and suppleness of the skin, the iconic Elemis Marine Cream has gained cult status in the beauty world and amassed several celebrity fans on the way - plus, it just so happens to have 25% off right now...

When it comes to investing in quality skincare, Elemis is one of our go-to destinations and is home to some of the best face moisturisers, the best cleansers and more. However, the brand's beauty gems tend to be slightly on the pricey side, which means we're always on the hunt for the very best Elemis deals, so we can snap up leading skincare for less.

Speaking of bestsellers, the brand's legendary Pro-Collagen Marine Cream has only grown in popularity since its launch in 2003, thanks to its innovative gel-cream texture that leaves the skin feeling hydrated and looking youthful. So, with colder months (and the dehydrating effect they have on our complexion) looming, what better time to invest in a rich skin-loving moisturiser? If you need any more signs to convince you, its price tag is also currently marked down by 20%...

Why celebrity-loved Elemis Marine Cream is a cold-weather skin essential

Thanks to its nourishing and results-driven formula, it's unsurprising that Elemis' Marine Cream has also gained a celebrity following. Back in 2015, Kate Hudson posted the iconic moisturiser to her Instagram before attending the Golden Globes, detailing the must-have products she uses for her red carpet look. While Victoria Beckham and Catherine Zeta Jones are also rumoured to use the popular skincare brand within their beauty routines.

The cult classic cream not only boasts several celebrity fans, it's also gained over 6000 highly-rated reviews on Amazon, averaging an impressive 4.7 stars out of 5...

Where are the best places to shop Elemis deals?

Elemis themselves offer savings on curated bundles, but when it comes to shopping specific deals on the brand's best-sellers, we have to say Amazon comes out on top with their generous savings - we've seen buys with up to 58% off. However, Look Fantastic and Sephora also deserve notable mentions as they regularly present significant discounts between 10-20%.

Does Elemis do Black Friday?

Yes, Elemis are known to take part in Black Friday sales, last year offering a impressive 25% discount across their entire site. Other retailers followed suit, such as Cult Beauty and Look Fantastic who boasted discounts of 25% and up to 30% off respectively. So, if you're looking to snap up an Elemis bargain, it's certainly worth shopping around before hitting checkout to see if you can find a great money-saving deal...

Does Elemis do Prime Day?

Set your alarms, Amazon's Big Deal Days have been announced as taking place on Tuesday 8th October and Wednesday 9th October 2024. Amazon regularly run great Elemis deals all year round, boasting discounts of up to 56% off, so we can expect to see some sizeable discounts across the brand's best-sellers on the Big Deal Days. Whilst we're still unsure on the exact savings that will be featured in the sale, we'll be sure to keep you updated as soon as we know...

View the latest Elemis discount codes from woman&home's voucher team to get some money off your luxe skincare purchases.

As we head into the cooler half of the year, we're relying on Jennifer Aniston's 'must-have' moisturiser to keep our skin hydrated and healthy.

Going into autumn, we might be excited to break out the classic deep red lipsticks and trending hair colours we love about the season again, but the cooler months pose beauty problems as well as delights.

You might have noticed that, as the temperature drops, your complexion has started playing up, with your skin drying out and becoming irritated and inflamed. It's likely you're suffering with 'winter skin.' It's a super common problem in the colder months and, thankfully, there is an affordable, and celebrity endorsed, solution.

Jennifer Aniston's favourite moisturiser, the Daily Moisturising Body Lotion by Aveeno, has long been loved by the actress. In fact, in an interview with InStyle, she said she’s been using the product since she was a teenager! It's no surprise why she's never strayed from the product. Fragrance free, with naturally derived oats underpinning its nourishing formula, it's a staple to keep dry skin supple and hydrated.

Jennifer isn't the only one who loves the moisturiser, woman&home Digital Beauty Writer Sennen Prickett can't get enough of it either. “I have unpredictably sensitive skin, so a body lotion with an unscented, kind-to-skin formula, such as this Aveeno option, is an absolute must," she said.

"I found its nourishing blend of oats to offer a gentle and soothing boost of hydration, which is great for those with dry and sensitive skin. What I especially love about this moisturiser is how quickly it sinks into the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple without that dreaded greasy film - another huge positive for me, as I’m not a fan of body lotions that take a while to absorb. It’s certainly a post-shower must-have product."

Shoppers are raving about the moisturiser too, with it boasting an impressive 3,662 five-star reviews on Amazon.

"I love this Aveeno moisturiser, it's suitable for use all over the body including the face, and it's suitable for everyone," one reviewer wrote. "It's instantly soothing and moisturising, it's a thick creamy texture and absorbs into the skin really well. I use twice a day and my skin is soft and smooth."

Another added, "I've tried various moisturisers, including expensive ones, and I keep coming back to Aveeno since it's the best one around - light, unscented, non-oily, and always leaves my skin feeling lovely. All that for a bargain price!"

We'd expect nothing less from a Jennifer Aniston staple. She's recommended a whole host of products over the years, from the luxe hair oil she uses for her sleek, glossy bob to the powerhouse concealer she uses to get her flawless, glowing skin, and we've loved them all.

When thick primers and creams are no longer welcome in your hot weather beauty regime, this is the lightweight and multi-tasking base product to reach for - per a beauty writer...

As someone with dry skin, having one of the best face moisturisers in my regime is a must but come summertime, even I - a glowy-skin enthusiast - loathe the feel of heavy creams on my face. With every passing moment, you can practically sense their formulas clogging your pores when the hot weather strikes, while at the same time, leaving a thick, claggy film that (whilst protective and even nourishing in winter) feels sweaty and uncomfortable - especially when layered under your best foundations. But when forgoing moisturiser isn't an option, what's the alternative? I have four words for you: ILIA's The Base Face.

With the liquid consistency of literal milk - or for a nicer analogy, serum - and all the hydration powers of a classic moisturiser, here's why ILIA's skin-barrier-loving formula is a must-try this summer season...

Why ILIA's Base Face Milk is the only moisturiser I reach for in summer

Housed in a luxe, cloudy glass bottle and laced with the hydration-locking powers of hyaluronic acid, this milky essence is not to be confused with one of the best hyaluronic acid serums. For all intents and purposes, it's a moisturiser but not as we know them to be...

On discovering this product, I was sceptical, after all, how could such a lightweight liquid manage to nourish my skin as well as my thicker creams, whilst also not causing my makeup to pill or separate? As it turns out, very easily.

This milky formula layers beautifully under primers and foundations, offering a very fresh and natural gleam to the skin that, in my experience, doesn't cross into the realm of greasy. Applying it feels like drenching your skin in hydration but despite its viscosity, it melts right in -without leaving an overly tacky residue.

Speaking of the formula, as mentioned, it features hyaluronic acid and works to hydrate, soothe redness, strengthen the skin's barrier, and prime it for your next skincare steps. It's described as being the perfect pre-serum and foundation base, making it quite the versatile staple in routine.

And while it is a tad pricey, I've found a little goes a long way and with it fulfilling both my hyaluronic acid, moisturiser and primer needs, it's allowed me to really streamline my routine.

How to apply the ILIA Base Face Milk

Like you would with any of your moisturisers, simply apply it to cleansed skin, either before or after your favourite serums. I tend to use it as a last step before my primer and foundation. Application-wise, I pour a few drops into my palm, rub my hands together and then, gently pat the product into my skin - focusing on my cheeks and around my nose.

Does it work well under makeup?

As a glowy-makeup lover, I've found that it gives me a lovely, healthy radiance and have experienced no foundation piling or obvious lifting of any of my other cream products whilst wearing it.

We're big fans of Jennifer Garner here at woman&home. Despite being a Hollywood A-lister, she comes across as being really down to earth in her social posts, and, well, she looks amazing. So any beauty recommendation she has, we're keen to know about. 

Finding the best face moisturiser is not only the key to beautiful skin and lasting hydration, but also smooth makeup application. Thankfully, Jennifer's envy-worthy complexion doesn't cost a fortune – her favourite moisturiser Neutrogena Hydro Boost is currently on sale for less than £10.

She has previously praised the Neutrogena's formula for filling in her micro-wrinkles in an instant, with a real visible difference. If that wasn't enough, the water gel formula is also perfect for cooling the skin in the summer months with lasting hydration. 

In an interview with InStyle, Jennifer said that the Hydro Boost moisturiser makes her skin look "fresh and plump and better" overall, but it is particularly helpful for lines. "There are all these little micro-lines [on my face] that once I put this on, they go away."

Although things like the best retinol creams can help with fine lines, those with sensitive or very dry skin will find that a gel moisturiser will agree with their skin much better. Plus, our team can attest to the powers of this simple yet effective product.

"This is actually one of my favourite moisturisers too," says our beauty editor Aleesha Badkar. "I love the low price point for such a quality product - it means that I don't feel guilty about using too much of it because it's so easy to stock up on!

"The lightweight and very refreshing texture makes this a go-to for me during the warmer months of the year. It quenches skin without feeling too heavy and doesn't leave any kind of sheen over the top. It also sinks into skin really nicely and it layers beautifully with other products - whether that be a light serum underneath or one of the best facial sunscreens over the top."

Shop more Neutrogena discounts

The Duchess of Sussex always looks fantastic and is clearly a woman who spends time looking after her hair and skin, as well as somebody who has got her signature make-up look down to a fine art. 

If you’d like to recreate her signature glow, you’re in luck, as some of Meghan Markle’s beauty secrets have been made available to the public over the years by the duchess herself as well as members of her glam squad. 

Not only did Meghan share some of her beauty favourites on her lifestyle blog, The Tig, but during her time as an actress she discussed her hair, make-up and skincare routines in several interviews. To that end, we’ve done extensive research on the subject to put together a list of the beauty tips relied upon by the Duchess of Sussex, including her favourite moisturisers, her go-to blushers and so much more. Here’s what you need to know about her routines…

32 of Meghan Markle's beauty secrets

Always wearing fragrance

An invisible but important part of her routine, Meghan Markle has revealed she wears perfume every single day. Per a 2016 interview with The Express, she said, "Fragrance is my favourite thing – so much so that if I leave the house and I don’t put any on, I’ll turn around and go back home." 

If you’re wondering what her signature scent is, you're in luck as she’s previously shared that exact information with fans. Two of the best Jo Malone perfumes hold that accolade – namely Wild Bluebell and Wood Sage and Sea Salt – as well as Oribe’s Côte d’Azur.

Have a signature lip colour

Everybody has their go-to shade of lipstick, be it the best red lipstick or a more neutral shade, and the Duchess of Sussex is no exception. In the aforementioned Express article, Meghan said that she loves Charlotte Tilbury’s lipsticks (don’t we all) and that her favourite shade is Very Victoria, which is a browny-pinky nude colour. Fun fact: this shade was named after none other than Victoria Beckham.

Lightweight foundation

When it comes to make-up, Meghan likes her freckles to be visible, telling Allure that it’s one of her “pet peeves” when they are airbrushed out. Her solution? To reach for one of the best lightweight foundations.

Her former make-up artist Lydia Sellers told Refinery29 that she often used Giorgio Armani’s Luminous Silk with a beauty blender to get sheer, natural-looking coverage. 

Don't neglect body care

Many of us have our skincare routine nailed but may not put quite as much effort into our body care routine. Not the Duchess of Sussex – and one of her go-to body lotions is a bargain. In an interview with Beauty Banter, Meghan explained that she uses Nivea’s Q10 Firming Body Lotion “religiously”. 

Face exercises

“I do facial exercises from one of my favorite aestheticians, Nicola Joss, who basically has you sculpt your face from the inside out,” Meghan said in an interview with Birchbox. “I swear it works, as silly as you may feel. On the days I do it, my cheekbones and jawline are waaaay more sculpted. There’s a reason she is in high demand around awards season when every actress wants to look A-plus.”

Maintain your brows

The eyebrows frame the face and maintaining their shape makes a huge difference. Sherrille Riley, founder of Nails & Brows Mayfair, told PEOPLE that Meghan has The Audrey Brow treatment, which is inspired by Audrey Hepburn. This consists of shaping and tinting, ending with the application of brow makeup.

This smart lip liner trick

According to Popsugar, it looks like Meghan makes use of an easy lip liner trick that perfectly accentuates their shape. The trick is to over-line the centre of the lip but not the sides. "Choose a lip liner one shade darker than your natural lip colour," make-up artist Nikki Wolff told the publication. "[Then] with a well-sharpened pencil, draw slightly over your natural lip line, focusing on the centre of your mouth."

Curl your lashes

Curling your eyelashes before applying the best mascara is your one-way ticket to opening up the eyes and making them look longer. Clearly, the Duchess of Sussex knows this, as she previously praised the iconic Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler in her Beauty Banter interview. While her go-to curler clocks in at just under £30, many of the best eyelash curlers retail for around half that price, so you don't need to blow the budget to get some serious results. 

Gently exfoliate

Gentle exfoliation is another step in Meghan’s skincare regime that contributes to her signature glow, telling Allure back in 2014 that she likes to use Tatcha’s The Rice Polish, an exfoliating enzyme powder. “It just sort of foams on your face and gives you a really subtle exfoliation,” she said. 

The hair flip

The trick to Meghan's bouncy hair? “There is nothing like a hair flip!" she said in an interview with Birchbox back when she was in Suits. "When my hair is feeling a little weighted, Suanne, my hair artist on set, has me bend forward and she sprays a little Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray or nothing at all, and then has me ‘flip back hard’ to give my hair a little extra bounce.”

Bridal shimmer

Meghan’s make-up always looks fantastic, so we expected nothing less on her wedding day (and she didn’t disappoint). Daniel Martin was the MUA behind her wedding day glow. "Meghan likes a shimmery look, so when I did her makeup for the royal wedding, I used the Dior Backstage Glow Face Palette, a powder blush and highlighter," he told Harper's Bazaar. "Then I tapped Honest Beauty Magic Balm onto her cheeks to give them a little bounce; since it’s glossy it really pumps up the highlight in photos."

Use a nourishing hair oil

Hair oils can really help to nourish and add moisture to strands, as well as improve shine – something Meghan makes use of in her haircare routine. She told Beauty Banter that one of her favourites was the Wella Reflections Luminous Smoothing Oil for making hair “slippery and touchable”. That's welcome news to us, as it retails at around £23. 

A messy bun can work for all occassions

When she started making public appearances in the UK, the messy bun quickly became considered one of Meghan’s signature hairstyles and it’s one that she’s been pictured with almost countless times over the years. It’s a chic look that works for just about any occasion – the duchess even wore the style on her wedding day. 

Always wear SPF

Wearing SPF year-round is one of the best things you can do for your skin and, living in California, we’re sure this is something Meghan is diligent about. According to Meghan’s Mirror, she dedicated an entire post on The Tig to the subject and we’ve previously spotted her with Nivea sunscreen in public. 

Her shimmery smokey eye

One of Meghan’s go-to pencils for a smokey eye is MAC’s Teddy Pencil Liner. “[It] is a really beautiful brown that has some gold in it,” she told Allure. “A makeup artist I work with often, Kayleen McAdams, turned me on to it. It's what she uses on Sofia Vergara, and who wouldn't want those gorgeous brown almond eyes?"

Use a hydrating serum

Kate Somerville is one of Hollywood’s go-to aestheticians who has counted Meghan Markle among her famous clientele. The Duchess of Sussex told Beauty Banter that she’s a fan of the Quench Hydrating Face Serum to help “maintain her glow”.  (While that specific product is now discontinued, you can still buy the DermalQuench Liquid Lift Advanced Wrinkle Treatment). 

Hair masking

Taking the time to apply a hair mask once a week or so can do wonders for its condition and nourish strands. Meghan has previously cited the Kérastase Nutritive Mask as one of her favourites, as well as the brand’s Oléo-Relax line, which she told Beauty Banter she uses “religiously”.

Glowy blusher

Using one of the best blushers instantly perks up the complexion and adds a youthful glow – and Meghan is a fan of a classic buy. In her interview with Beauty Banter, she described NARS Orgasm Blush as having “a perfect rosy flush tone that brightens the face.”

Lash serum

Using a lash serum is a great way to strengthen and help them grow longer and Meghan is a fan of the iconic RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner. "I also use RevitaLash on my eyelashes, and I swear they are as long as they could ever be,” she told Allure. 

Eye-brightening liner

The Duchess of Sussex is also thought to make use of a clever eye-brightening make-up trick. "Meghan appears to be wearing a nude eyeliner in her lower waterline," make-up artist Francesca Abrahamovitch told Femail. "I love this look and use it a lot on my clients, especially when they have super-early starts. It's a really effective way of making your eyes appear bigger and brighter [and] also hides any redness or tiredness making it look as though you've had a full eight hours sleep –even when the reality is very different."

Buccal massage

Meghan’s plump and youthful-looking skin can also be credited to, in part, the use of an unusual facial technique: buccal massage. As part of the Inner Facial™, her facialist Nichola Joss massages the muscle from inside the mouth, which she tells PEOPLE "allows the muscle to be healthier and more youthful [and] adds vitality to the muscle. It makes it softer but stronger, and obviously working from the inside of the mouth really addresses the core element of the muscle.”

Skin-smoothing gel

One of Kate Middleton’s make-up and skincare products also apparently counts Meghan Markle as a fan: the fine line-smoothing Biotulin Supreme Skin Gel. According to reports, Kate recommended the gel to Meghan (as well as Michelle Obama).

Her sleek bun trick

Over the years Meghan Markle has picked up some great hair and make-up tips, like this one that helps her create sleek updos. “For my flyaways, I spray hairspray on a small boar bristle toothbrush (a regular toothbrush also works great!) to lightly brush them down or smooth the hairline,” she told Birchbox. “This is especially good for a sleek bun when I am off-camera.”

Use a balmy highlighter

Highlighter adds instant radiance to your skin, but you may have noticed the Duchess of Sussex’s make-up tends to have a dewy rather than sparkly glow. Meghan’s former hairstylist and make-up artist Lydia Sellers told TODAY Style that the now-duchess was a fan of RMS Beauty’s balmy Living Luminizer.

Her signature loose waves

Another of Meghan’s signature ‘dos is her glossy, loose waves – AKA the perfect “effortlessly chic” hairstyle. George Northwood (the hairstylist behind many of her looks, including her wedding hair) told Vogue that the trick is to use a large barrel tong and “tong away from the face at the front of the hair, and focus on the mid-lengths”. 

Facials

We’re confident that regular facials are part of Meghan’s beauty routine and facialist Sarah Chapman, who has a clinic in London, has been credited with helping to create her glowing skin. According to PEOPLE, the duchess reportedly called in to see Chapman for a catch-up and a facial while she was in the UK for the late Queen Elizabeth’s platinum jubilee celebrations. 

Her eye-brightening trick

Meghan has another trick for waking up tired eyes in her arsenal. “To open up your eyes, apply a highlighter like Yves Saint Laurent’s Touche Éclat in the inner corner," she told Birchbox. "This trick is especially good when we are filming at 3am and I need to look bright-eyed and bushy-tailed.”

Affordable nail polishes

Though Meghan wore dark nail polish to the British Fashion Awards in 2018, she is usually seen wearing a barely-there pink or nude shade. Like Kate Middleton and the late Queen Elizabeth, she is reportedly a fan of the affordable brand Essie – according to Marie Claire UK, she has previously worn the shades Marshmallow and Limo Scene for royal engagements. 

False lashes

From time to time, the duchess makes use of the best false eyelashes and has previously spoken about how much she likes Velour Lashes’ Whispie Me Away style on The Tig. Not only that, but Meghan also reportedly wore these very lashes on her wedding day.

Refresh with a mist

Using a hydrating mist is a great way to refresh the skin through the day – and Meghan’s former make-up artist Lydia Sellers noted Tatcha’s Luminous Dewy Skin Mist as one of the duchess’s favourites. "This is amazing because it tones the skin and preps it for foundation while leaving it with a dewy surface. It also freshens up your makeup after a few hours of wear," she told TODAY Style. 

Her secret to frizz-free locks

Another product behind Meghan’s soft and shiny hair? According to Sellers, the Kevin Murphy SMOOTH.AGAIN Anti-Frizz Treatment was one that she’d regularly use on the now-duchess before blow drying her hair, per her TODAY Style interview. 

Her go-to mascara

One of Meghan Markle’s go-to mascaras has long been reported as being a high street favourite: Maybelline’s Lash Sensational Luscious Mascara. One of the best Maybelline mascaras, the formula is infused with oils to nourish the lashes. MUA Lydia Sellers told HELLO! that Meghan introduced her to the affordable buy when they worked together on Suits. 

Finding that your signature scents fade throughout the day? According to the experts, simply applying moisturiser before perfume can make all the difference...

While the best long-lasting perfumes are guaranteed to leave a lingering, good-smelling impression, we're always looking for ways to push our favourite notes even further. After all, there's nothing worse than discovering that your fragrance has seemingly evaporated from your skin when you're not able to reapply and are still hours from returning home. Even more so, when the best perfumes for women are often the most premium of our beauty buys.  

According to the pros though, there is one simple and inexpensive bodycare step that could help those luxe scent molecules cling to your skin for longer...

The easy and inexpensive trick to lasting signatures

So aside from applying our scents to our pulse points and then refraining from rubbing the perfume into our wrists, how else can we try to boost the lifespan of our favourite milk perfumes and floral fragrances? The answer: moisturiser.

Michelle Feeney, Founder of Floral Street says to, "moisturise the skin well before applying [perfume], as this helps with longevity." This step is especially key in the winter months, as Feeney notes that, "perfume won't cling as well to dryer skin." 

Several iconic brands - from Chanel and Jo Malone to Le Labo -  have actually capitalised on this trick, offering body washes and lotions that are infused with their hero perfumes, to double up on the scent.  As Jo Malone's Fragrance and Lifestyle Expert, Emma South explains, layering our perfume with its corresponding moisturiser can indeed boost its lasting power. "At Jo Malone London, many of our fragrances are available in a lotion or crème, providing a way to layer and intensify the fragrance whilst increasing the longevity." All the while, leaving your skin nourished 

Perfume is known to cling well to damp and oily skin, so it makes sense to prep with a hydrating lotion, before then spritzing yourself in perfume. This also offers the opportunity to slightly customise and experiment with your signatures, as you can layer them with a vanilla-scented moisturise, for example - to create a unique aroma. That being said though, an unscented lotion is preferable (unless you're opting for the corresponding lotion, as mentioned) if you want your chosen perfume to take centre stage - and not risk disrupting or compromising the delicate balance of notes. 

Woman&home's Beauty Writer, Naomi Jamieson is a big advocate of this trick, "Every morning without fail, I cover my entire body in a lightly scented moisturiser. This creates a subtle but good-smelling base, the slight residue of which my perfume can then cling to. My go-to is a cocoa butter and vitamin E lotion (from Boots and under £2) as it smells so soft and comforting - like a skin scent - and pairs beautifully with my preferred woody/floral scents. I really find that this helps my fragrances to melt into the skin and linger."

Our perfume and body lotion staples

And for anyone looking to add a scented or budget-friendly cream into their routine - to push their perfumes to the next level, here are a few body lotion for fragrance options to consider...

Aldi is set to launch a £3.99 moisturiser that is set to rival the celebrity-loved brand Weleda and their signature 'Skin Food' product that retails at £14.99.

Of all the best celebrity tricks and tips for glowing skin, one of our favourite tips comes from Victoria Beckham, Posh Spice herself, who has revealed that she loves a relatively inexpensive moisturiser. Victoria revealed years ago that she's a huge fan of Weleda Skin Food, and claims that it's her 'body secret.

"My body secret is Weleda Skin Food. What I love about it is that it’s not particularly expensive and you can find it anywhere. The formula is so thick and buttery," Victoria told Into The Gloss."When I have a tan, I’ll mix it with coconut oil - the same you use to cook with - and cover my entire body with it. I suppose some people may not like the greasiness, but it helps me hold on to the colour. And by the time I leave the house, I feel as if it’s really sunk in. Like my skin’s had a good drink. I go through so many of these…I wish they had bigger ones."

Well, Victoria's wishes may have been granted as Aldi has just launched an incredible rival for this product which is far less expensive than the Weleda product. This means she can spend the same amount but get almost four times more moisturiser from the Aldi brand.

Aldi revealed that a new skincare range will be available in stores from January 25th and will feature the new Lacura Rich Moisturising Cream, a direct competitor product of the Weleda Skin Food.

Aldi said, "With prices starting from just £3.99, the latest collection boasts formulations designed to shield and nourish skin throughout the colder months – much like specialist brand, Weleda, which has gained a celebrity following from the likes of Victoria Beckham and Hailey Bieber."

Julia Roberts has also previously sung the Skin Food moisturiser’s praises, telling InStyle Magazine, "I put it on my hands after I wash the dishes, and wind up putting it on my elbows and feet. Before you know it, I’ve squeezed this poor little green tube into a twist."

The Lacura Moisturising Cream is a multi-purpose cream that can be applied to all areas of the body. The rich cream is formulated with organic sunflower oil, calendula, pansy and chamomile extract, which helps skin to feel stronger and protected. 

Aldi is also launching a light version of this moisturising cream also priced at £3.99, which is similar to Weleda's Light Skin Food, which typically retails at £14.99 for a 75ml bottle.

Before diving into my NARS Tinted moisturiser review, it's probably good to clarify something: I’m not really a tinted moisturiser person. My favourite foundation or base makeup products are long-wearing with high to medium coverage – not exactly things these lightweight formulas are known for.

To me, even the best tinted moisturisers have always sat in a sort of airy-fairy space, embodying the romantic idea that all you need is a quick swipe of tinted moisturiser and a slick of rosy lip balm to be ready to face the day. If you have been blessed with the kind of flawless skin that you can barely perceive a pore upon, let alone a blemish or a spot of hyperpigmentation, then, sure, I can see why you wouldn't give this approach to makeup. But that’s never been me.

My skin is combination with congestion, a chance of blemishes across the t-zone, dehydration and dryness towards the outer edges. It’s prone to redness in hot or cold temperatures, too. So, it’s fair to say that, in the foundation vs tinted moisturiser debate, my usual stance is firmly on the side of the best foundation.

All this meant that the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser was going to have to pull out some serious stops to win me over. As the makeup lovers among you will know, this is not a new product, rather a long-time fan favourite. It relaunched in the spring of 2021 with a wider and more inclusive shade range, which has garnered it more fans. Would I be one of them? Let's see…

Our beauty editor’s NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser review 

NARS Tinted Moisturiser specifications

• RRP: £38
• Number of shades: 16
• Coverage: Medium, buildable 
• Finish: Radiant
• Extra features: SPF 30 PA+++, antioxidants

My first impressions of the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser

NARS makeup just looks trustworthy. Across the entire range, packaging is understated yet premium, with a monochrome colour scheme that isn't trying too hard to impress. The Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser comes in a cardboard box with the ingredients list and usage instructions on it, a hallmark difference between prestige and drugstore foundations or tinted moisturisers. As for the actual product, the squeezy tube lends itself well to the different ways you could use it. 

Knowing how to apply tinted moisturiser comes down to quantity as well as method. Here, you’re in control as to how much you can get out in one go – it's possible to squeeze the smallest, just enough-to-blur-a-dark-circle amount out at a time. Alternatively, if you want to layer it or if you want maximum coverage in minimum time, you can be more heavy-handed. 

Soft tubes normally get my vote over glass bottles for two reasons; firstly because they’re lighter and smaller and secondly because there’s no chance of them smashing in your makeup bag. This tube is plastic, with no on-pack indications that it’s recyclable, which could be a turn-off for more eco-conscious shoppers.

As for the formula, this velvety-smooth tinted moisturiser is as substantial in formula as it is in feel. With a product of this price, you’d expect more than simply pigment suspended in moisturiser and, thankfully, NARS does deliver. An SPF of 30 offers a good level of protection from UVB rays (the kind that cause sunburn), which is pretty standard across a lot of base products. But what sets it apart is the inclusion of PA+++, which refers to the level of protection from UVA rays – AKA the ones responsible for the majority of skin ageing.

That said, it’s worth noting that to get the amount of protection specified on the pack, you’d need to apply as much tinted moisturiser as you would sunscreen. Most of us wouldn’t layer on quite that much (which is why you should always apply a dedicated sunscreen as the last step of your skincare routine before makeup) but NARS' Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser is lightweight enough to layer up nicely. 

There is also a small amount of vitamin C (less than 1%) in the formulation for a bit of added brightening, but at this level you’re more likely to only benefit from its antioxidant protection that helps to shield the skin from things like pollution. I hadn’t heard of the French Polynesian Kopara (which NARS spotlights as a hero ingredient) before, but a little research tells me this is a natural sugar discovered in the place where brand founder François Nars likes to vacation. It’s there for its moisturising benefits, working to hydrate and soften skin.

How does the NARS Tinted Moisturiser perform?

I first picked up NARS' Tinted Moisturiser on a day when my morale was low. I’d had a busy week fuelled by junk food and very little sleep and my skin was showing as much. It was tired and bland with two angry spots. I was in a hurry, so not expecting much I smoothed this tinted moisturiser on with my fingers in a kind of haphazard way. 

Upon sitting back to admire my minimal handiwork, it was as if I was suddenly looking at my skin under soft mood lighting rather than the harsh glow of the big light. My tiredness was zapped and my skin looked fresh, healthy and glowing. I looked genuinely rested. The coverage is far more generous than you’d expect from a tinted moisturiser, which I loved. As this isn’t a foundation, it still wasn't quite pigmented enough to fully disguise the two uninvited guests on my cheeks, but it definitely gave my concealer a leg up.

As the texture is so light, I also found my skin didn’t feel suffocated or cosseted, just nourished and soft to the touch. As a result, I think it would work well during all seasons, helping to avoid the overwhelming feeling of foundation during the summer months and restoring vibrancy to skin that’s been robbed of moisture and sunlight during winter. 

I tried a couple of different shades when working on this NARS Tinted Moisturiser review (Gotland and Alaska) and found both to be pretty stretchable. But even with the shade extension, looking at the range there are still only four shades that I would consider to cater to the deeper end of the skin tone spectrum – which is disappointing and does mean, unfortunately, that this product won’t be for everyone. 

My standard gripe with tinted moisturisers is how quickly they disappear. I understand that the aim is to have something that still leaves your skin looking like skin, but if it looks as though you aren’t wearing any makeup at all after 10 minutes, then it’s a waste of time and money. The good news is that the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser does stick around for long enough to earn its keep. By the very end of a long day, it wasn’t hugely visible on my skin, but I do think it’s unfair to expect that from a tinted moisturiser. If longer wear is your aim, then I would point you in the direction of one of the best lightweight foundations instead. 

As the formula is so lovely, light and spreadable, it’s really easy to pat on a little more as and when you feel you need it. There’s no need for a brush (unless you really want to use one) as melting and pressing it into your skin with your fingers gives such a seamless finish. I have found in the past that some tinted moisturisers cake or congeal when you try to apply more, but that’s not the case here. 

Should you buy the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser?

It felt unlikely that NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser had earnt itself such a cult following without good reason, but it really did impress me. I love that the coverage is fuller than your average tinted moisturiser and goes the distance during the day.

This is the sort of base you want on your side for days when your skin is feeling tired and lacklustre, bringing with it a rested, healthy glow that’s hard to come by without a little extra help. The SPF 30 is a welcome add-on for extra protection on top of your daily sunscreen, too. If you’re committed to wearing foundation but looking to convert to tinted moisturiser, this would be an excellent place to start.