What's another year, when you're well groomed, writes Phyl Clarke
Panic stations as another birthday looms. I had a significant one last year, and boy did I revel in all the attention and the fuss that was made of me, forgetting that 12 months on, one more number would be added to the score and that time would be waiting for no woman. Birthdays are a bit like New Year's Day. They make you reassess and ask the hard questions about yourself. Sometimes the words "must try harder" from my school days come back to me.
So it's time for an overhaul to look respectable and prepare for summer's arrival. Here are the must-dos.
Consider your hair colour. For brunettes - is it too dark? I always go up a shade or two during the summer, as a dark helmet of hair is not a good look, and can be too intense on the bright summer days we are hoping for. For blondes - think about having a few lowlights added to your colour to break it up a little. Redheads - you are the lucky ones, as in my opinion red hair looks great in any season.
Condition your skin. You are going to be revealing more as the weather warms up, so get going on exfoliating and nourishing your body. The Chanel Body Excellence range (from €38) is superb for getting skin into shape, and as it involves pinching the skin prior to application, the "no pain, no gain" mantra will be ringing in your ears. At the other end of the price scale, Boots has some excellent new additions in its Sanctuary range, including an exfoliating glove (€5.50). This range is one of Boots's best kept secrets. It was developed by one of London's poshest spas - The Sanctuary - and both the quality and price range is terrific.
Wax lyrical. You will feel like going on holidays just for the excuse of donning your swimsuit after a body wax, and don't forget your eyebrows - a professional brow shaping can take years off the face. is the Rolls Royce of waxes - check if your local salon uses this as it dramatically reduces the discomfort of waxing. It's available at Brazilia in Dublin (01-6750000).
Have a pedicure. You will feel instantly lifted and probably rush out to buy some sandals to show off your new feet. Essie is a brand with award-winning colours that will flatter. Phone 01-4610645 for details of a salon near you which uses them.
Lighten up on foundation. Put away heavy creams and powders, and say hello to tinted moisturiser and a good concealer. Also worth considering is Johnson & Johnson Holiday Skin for face (€6.99) which can be used to build up a subtle, healthy colour. tinted moisturisers (€30) are a great choice for summer.
Start walking. Nothing (well, almost nothing) will give your cheeks a glow comparable to the effects of a good walk. Add to that weight loss, uplifted mood and the excuse to nose into other people's gardens, and it's as simple as putting one foot in front of the other.
Adapt your blush. Cream blush rules for summer - its texture will blend more seamlessly than powder with a tinted moisturiser, and give you a summer glow. , Estée Lauder and the range from Marks & Spencer are worth checking out.
Change your fragrance. At this time of year, the weather dictates that you spray a little more frequently during the day, so you need something lighter. Visit the fragrance counters and sample both the classics and new summer scents.
As it is my birthday, and I haven't quite lost the weight in time, I think I'm due a fabulous pair of shoes, don't you? Of course I'll walk into town to buy them.