Beauty recommendations are sometimes PR hype. We were not given any of these products for free and this is all from personal recommendation.

As a refreshing alternative, we offer this list of tried and tested products, some familiar, some enjoyably obscure.

MeMeMe Fat Cat Lashes. The wand has a huge brush that creates long, feather-like lashes, similar in style to Diorshow but at a fraction of the price. £7.99

Face

Clarins Beauty Flash Balm. Yes it’s expensive but if you’re hungover, have a date or need a quick face perk-up you’ll be glad of this little miracle. Apply in small quantities for an immediate healthy glow. £26.50

Boots Botanics Sensitive Skin Cleansing Lotion. A lovely and gentle cleanser that clears the skin, moisturises it and removes make-up. £3.99

Lancôme Photogenic Lumessence. Want people to hate you because they think you have naturally perfect skin? Pop this on your birthday list. Another pricey one but it lasts for months and makes you glow with health. Albeit from a bottle. £27.50

Rose & Co Apothecary Rose Petal Salve. A rose-smelling salve that can also be used as a brow tamer, cuticle softner, elbow and knee softner and it comes in lots of flavours including cherry kiss and the yummy sounding strawberry crush. £5.00

Hair

Charles Worthington Brilliant Shine Shampoo and Conditioner. No need to spend silly money on big name brands, this does the same job and makes your hair soft and shiny. £4.55 each.

Let us know how you get with the recommendations, or please share any of your own favourites.

By Alexa Brown