Trend: Nail file
We are loving these new neutrals: polishes with distinctly Neapolitan flavours from the prettiest pastel-pink, to ice-blue, and the ever-flattering chamois. To create the best base for polish to adhere to, always apply a base coat; this will also help with the longevity of the polish.
Luxe to less:
Chanel Nail Colour in Precious Beige, $39. Estée Lauder Pure Color Nail Lacquer in Beige Pur, $38. The Nail Lab in Elaine, $15. Rimmel 60 Seconds Super Shine in Pillow Talk, $6.
Road Test:
All-over laser hair removal
The lowdown: I am a huge devotee of laser hair removal. It's well worth the initial eight-treatment commitment to get rid of unwanted hair (there is no nice way of saying that). About once a year, I have a top-up to tackle any strays, and this full-body option is the bomb. My therapist grids up my legs with a pen to make sure she covers every area and asks about any trouble spots. She is using a Candela laser, which emits wavelengths of light that destroy the hair follicle. The areas to be treated need to be shaved and cannot be deeply tanned, or fake tanned. She works the wand over my legs, arms, armpits and bikini-line (Brazilians are still very popular but just remember, people, fashions do change).
Pain factor: The smell of scorched hair is a little acrid, and the bony parts of my legs are more sensitive than the rest, but on the whole, it's a doddle. Feels a bit like being flicked by a rubber band.
Downtime: One hour per treatment.
Results: Any strays I had are banished and my arms, which I had not done previously, are now virtually hair-free.
Where to get it: Laser Clinics Australia: laserclinics.com.au.
Cost: $349 per treatment. From six to 10 treatments will be needed.
At home: Help soothe any redness or irritation with the calming Skinstitut Laser Aid, $45, skinstitut.com.
Follow Stephanie Darling on Instagram @mrssdarling.com.au.
Cult following
Stress Relief Treatment Oil is a brilliant multitasker to mix with a favourite hand cream, add to the bath, or slather on as a body oil. With sandalwood, lavender, orange and clary sage, it radically tackles the tension-meter.
Dermalogica Stress Relief Treatment Oil, $40, dermalogica.com.au.
We ask an expert
Dermatologist Dr Adam Sheridan
How can you combat rosacea?
"Reduce your exposure to the sun, extremes of temperature and stress, and avoid facials and microdermabrasion. See a dermatologist for a multi-pronged approach, including a skincare prescription and laser and light therapy."
