James Read Overnight Tan Sleep Mask for Face €34
This product gave a lovely glow from underneath my make-up and blended seamlessly with the body version I used on my neck and chest. To say I am a klutz when it comes to applying fake tan would be an understatement, so the clear gel did give me the spooks. I used an old make-up brush to apply it to my face, and I wish I had done the same for my hands, as they came out very streaky with the mitt. Overall it gave a lovely genuine-looking brown shade, not orangey, patchy or glittery. It has aloe vera to moisturise, and hyaluronic acid for its anti-aging properties.
Cocoa Brown Golden Goddess Oil €12.99
If it's good enough for the Kardashians, it's good enough for us, right? Cocoa Brown has really taken off since Joyce Bonelli, make-up artist to the stars, introduced the Kardashian clan to the Irish-owned brand. Although the tone of its tanning mousse is not quite as brown and authentic in colour as the pricier James Read or St Tropez brands, the dry shimmer oil is a winner. I've never seen any other highlighting oil that is quite so pigmented and immediately recognisable on the skin – in a good way. Use a big fluffy make-up brush to apply to shins, collarbones and cheeks.
Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge for Lips and Cheeks €27
I like that this comes in a little round case and not in stick form, because I am always so tempted to just rub those sticks across my face – and that is not a good idea. These are really well-pigmented, so a little goes a long way, but don't be afraid of it either. Apply over your regular powder bronzer or blush on the apples of your cheeks for a flash of colour and a nice dewy glow.
Urban Decay Naked Flushed €31
This is a real multitasking palette, with a blusher, bronzer and highlighter all in one. Urban Decay's Naked range is best-known for its coveted eyeshadow palettes, which I have yet to be gifted by a relative (hint, hint). I picked up this face palette while on holidays in the US. It was on offer for $18, which is a steal compared with the €31 you'll pay here. This is a very handy number for those looking to cut down on make-up bag overload. You can blend all three together or use separately as you please.
No 7 Instant Radiance Highlighter €14
This champagne- coloured stick highlighter catches the light well when applied under the eyebrow arch, in the corner of the eyes and on the cheekbones. I like to use it on my eyelids, too, during the day to open out the eyes. The consistency is creamy, and it is easy to blend without wiping away your foundation.
NIAMH LOVES . . .
Benefit Dallas €34
This is halfway between a blusher and a bronzer and gives a perfect just-in-from-a-fresh-walk glow. Benefit's famous bronzer, Hoola, is favoured among many, and that range has recently been expanded, but I can never understand why this offering doesn't get the attention it deserves. It gives a dusty-pink, bathed-in- sunset-light look and can be used on cheeks, forehead and chin.
