Beauty

Compiled by PHYL CLARKE

A is for Alchemy

If you like your beauty products natural, you’ll be spoilt for choice at Limerick’s Alchemist Earth, a beauty emporium housing Ireland’s largest range of organic skin and haircare products. The familiar names are there, but also hard-to-find ranges such as Neals Yard Remedies, Barefoot Botanicals and Suki Skincare.

Lavera cosmetics offer a comprehensive and reasonably priced colour collection and Teo Cabanel natural fragrances add that finishing touch with a choice of five scents. The online store is excellent with free delivery on orders over €45. Alchemist Earth, 10 Sarsfield Street, Limerick. Tel: 061-404218. See naturalskincare.ie

White magic

Eighty years ago, Dublin pharmacist Thomas Smith developed an antiseptic healing cream which became an immediate hit with the mothers of the nation due to it’s miraculous effects on nappy rash. But Sudocrem is far more than a nursery cream – used on cuts, sunburn and acne it instantly soothes skin and relieves redness and the nostalgia-enducing fragrance adds a comforting hand. From €2.05

Less is more

The idea was born around a kitchen table in Cork – a pared-down approach to skincare which would see one multitasking product operate as an anti-wrinkle cream, an eye treatment, a protective moisturiser and a night cream. Reducing the need for a shelf full of products, Human + Kind's all-in-one anti-ageing cream contains high concentrations of active natural ingredients including Acmella oleracea, (also known as "nature's Botox) and is suitable for sensitive skins. €29.95 at pharmacies and health shops humanandkind.com

I Can't live without. . . MICHELLE THORNTON, Hotel Solutions

Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream I spend a lot of time in air-conditioned hotels and venues, and I find this product really helps to keep my skin moist and supple. It is lovely and light in texture and absorbs quickly, allowing me to apply my foundation immediately, saving precious time in the mornings.

MAC Studio Fix Fluid After trying numerous other foundations, I finally found MAC Studio Fix Fluid and have used this for many years now as it suits my sensitive skin.

It provides great coverage, while still managing to feel lovely and light in texture. It takes me through the day and also has SPF protection which is really important.

Perfume I really love my perfumes. My comfort scent is Chanel’s Coco Mademoiselle. I have used this for many years and keep going back to it. For evening wear, I favour Emilio Pucci Vivara which my husband gave to me as a gift – it has a light floral scent and I always get lots of compliments when I wear it.

High Heels I only wear high heels. In fact most people think I am taller than I am. I tend to treat myself a couple of times a year and my favourite designer is Manolo Blahnik. I have a pair of his Mary Janes in patent blue leather which I wear a lot to work as they are so comfortable. My favourite shoe shop is Cocobelle in the Royal Hibernian Way, Dublin. It has a treasure trove of the most beautiful shoes.

Tracksuit and trainers When I arrive home from a hectic day at work, I love to put on my tracksuit and trainers and take my dog Rocky for a long walk. I use this time to unwind and enjoy nature (the only thing I don’t do in heels).

Michelle Thornton owns and manages Hotel Solutions, a conference and event management company

Win a professional make-up course

Fancy a career in make-up artistry? It's a job that can offer travel opportunities, creating cutting edge looks backstage at fashion week and even the development of your own cosmetics line. The Makeup Academy at Brown Sugar is offering a complimentary place on its professional make-up course to one lucky reader. Valued at €750, the course runs for seven weeks and includes all materials and tools. To enter, please submit your name to marketing@irishtimes.combefore March 31st. brownsugar.ie