Gift grab

It's almost the last minute but there is still time to give a thoughful present and make someone feel beautiful this Christmas, writes PHYL CLARKE

Sparkle stars

The different sized particles in these shimmer powders give a multi-dimensional finish to skin. Dust on face, décolletage and shoulders for a sensual sheen. Just make sure to apply on moisturised skin.

Givenchy L’Or Celeste (€57)

A delicately fragranced gold powder that gives skin a pearlescent finish. The sleek black presentation and charming dispenser adds to its dressing table appeal. Available from Debenhams and Arnotts.

The Body Shop Sparkler (€19.95)

A sparkle dust spray for face and body that comes in pink and gold colourways to add a party touch to skin In the red

Tom Ford Jasmin rouge (€150) Cinnamon and ginger add a spicy edge to this feminine, floral scent which comes in a seasonal ruby red flacon. Sophisticated and sexy.

Get cracking

If you’re fed up with the usual corny jokes found in Christmas crackers, add a bit of pizzazz with these beauty crackers (€44), each containing a Lancôme product.

Let’s make up

A one-on-one lesson with make-up artist Ken Boylan is the perfect gift for someone looking to update their look or learn the tricks of the trade. With a new studio on Dublin’s Drury Street and his own line of make-up designed with “real women” in mind, Boylan says the emphasis is decidedly on fun (his make-up line is called Play). Pamela Flood’s classic look (pictured above) showcases rich red lipstick against a flawless base.

A lesson costs €50 (€25 of which is redeemable against purchase). Tel 01 6796060 or see kenboylan.com.

In the Mood

Shelbourne signature candle (€25)

Candles add instant atmosphere to any space, making them a popular gift choice. This one’s a bit special as it was created to invoke the tradition of one of Dublin’s best-loved hotels. Available from the Christmas shop, Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin

On the nail

Opi Rainbow Connection (€12.95)

Disco divas will love this multi-coloured glitter polish, which can either be worn as a topcoat to add oomph to a plain shade or layered up alone for the ultimate in party nails. Available from pharmacies nationwide.

Brush up

Flashing Gold mini brush set (€42)

The superb quality of Shu Uemura’s brushes are the stuff of make-up artist’s dreams – this set of four minis in a gold printed case will gladden the heart of any beauty queen. From Brown Thomas.

Hassle-free shopping

If you’re short of time and energy, or just can’t face the mill of the shops, Debenhams might have the answer with its Christmas Express service. Personal shoppers are on hand at all stores to will take the details of your gift recipients and do your shopping for you – free of charge and within your budget. The service takes just one hour, the perfect window for a nice lunch with a friend. It’s best to book ahead at 1890-946779 or debenhams.ie.

I can't live without Catherine Fulviochef and food writer

Waterproof mascara A must for onion chopping and even at that I can’t say that they are all very effective. Having road tested so many mascaras over the years, I do like Maybelline, but my favourite at the moment is most definitely Smashbox Lash DNA. And it’s not too difficult for remove, even without the tears from the onions

Olive oil It may sound weird to have olive oil in the beauty closet but it is very effective as a moisturiser and for shine on hair. I warm the oil and rub it into washed and partially dried hair. Pop on a shower cap, wrap a warm towel over the cap and let the oil soak in. Later, shampoo again in fairly warm water to rinse off the excess oil, and the result is shiny hair. For my hands, I rub a little in and pop on some cotton gloves overnight . . . although I don’t always remember to take care of my hands.

Seavite Hydrating (and anti ageing) lotion. Aside from the fact that it adversities “anti ageing” which always grabs my attention, I love the fact that this wonderful lotion is made from seaweed and it’s organic. But what I especially like about Seavite is that it does not irritate my skin, which tends to be quite sensitive anyway. It ticks all the boxes for me and its Irish too

See the light

Lumière Sculptée de Chanel (€55)

The intricately embossed design on this delicate highlighter was inspired by a belt buckle worn by Mademoiselle Chanel in a photo taken in the 1930s, but there’s nothing dated about the sheer beige iridescent powder, which catches the light wherever it’s dusted. Almost too beautiful to use – almost.