THE 50 BEST NEW; BEAUTY PRODUCTS

1

RED EARTH ILLUSIVE BRUSH IN PEACH FLOURISH

Just looking at this blusher's colourful, floral box makes you feel that spring is coming. This is a terrific blusher, both in terms of the actual powder, a gorgeous trio of peach, rosy pink and a shimmery coral, which gives the cheeks a pretty flush, and in terms of the presentation - a small, super-slim, silver compact with a black velvet pouch containing a fat brush. Team with the Paul & Joe lipstick (No 8) for a delicate effect. Where from: selected House of Fraser stores and www.redearth.com, from 2 February.

How much: pounds 2.

2

GUERLAIN DIVINORA ART OF LINES CALLIGRAPHY SET

If ever a beauty product was as desirable for its packaging as for its performance, it's this beautiful paint box of eyeshadows, complete with two brushes (one for lines and one for shading), a built-in mirror and a dainty little mixing bowl. The shimmery, mainly neutral colours are very versatile as they can be applied dry, painted on with a wet brush for a metallic effect, or moistened and used as eyeliner for an authentic 950s finish. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0932 233909).

How much: pounds 38.

3

CHANEL AQUALUMIERE LIPSTICK IN BAHAMAS

Buying this bright pink lipstick - a cool, bluey, fuschia pink - is a brilliant way to instantly inject a splash of spring colour into your make-up wardrobe. Teamed with rosy cheeks and a light eye colour, it creates a fresh, feminine and failsafe look. Although it may look frighteningly bold to anyone unaccustomed to bright colour, it is actually very easy to wear. Thanks to its glossy, sheer texture, it is much more wearable than similar shades in creamier formulations. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 020-7493 3836) from 7 February.

How much: pounds 4.

4

MOLTON BROWN CELESTIAL MARACUJA BODY SOUFFLE

In a posh tub, with an embossed silver lid, it's clear that this is a wonderfully luxurious product. The texture of the quickly absorbed, tangerine-coloured creme is like a light but rich balm. It both soothes and smoothes the skin, while imbuing it with the heady fragrance of Amazonian maracuja passionflower, from whose fruit maracuja oil - a traditional Amazonian moisturiser - is extracted. Where from: Molton Brown shops, Molton Brown By Mail, PO Box 254, London NW6 or call 020-7625 6550 or visit www.moltonbrown.co.uk

How much: pounds 35.

5

SISLEY ALL DAY, ALL YEAR

The French beauty company's latest launch is an innovative and beautifully scented day cream that acts as a protective shield, defending the complexion from the many environmental enemies of youthfulness. The clincher is that it releases its protection over eight hours (with most creams, it's two), while blocking out 90 per cent of UVA and UVB rays. For both an instant boost and long-term results, this is the moisturiser to try this spring - but only if you're prepared to support a very expensive habit... Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 020-749 2722).

How much: pounds 50.

6

ESTEE LAUDER AEROMATTE ULTRALUCENT PRESSED POWDER

Housed in one of Lauder's chic new compacts (which don't have clasps, as anyone who inevitably breaks theirs on a regular basis will be delighted to know), this pressed powder is the antithesis of the heavy powders that our grannies used to use to keep their make-up firmly in place. Sheer, light and silky-feeling, Aeromatte leaves skin looking flawless, but not fake. And it's available in an impressive range of eight shades. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0730 232566), from 28 February.

How much: pounds 22.50.

7

FRESH CARNIVALE EYESHADOW PALETTE

This raspberry-pink compact perfectly sums up the top spring colours for eyes, with five subtly glistening ice-cream shades, which each look great as a single wash of colour over the eyelids, or blended - there's a chocolate brown to use for shading - for a more dramatic look. The colours are easy to carry off - vanilla, apple green, pale pink, powder blue and peach - and look very now when teamed with a bright lipstick, such as No 3 or No 8. Where from: Fresh, 92 Marylebone High St, London; selected department stores (for stockists call 020-7486 400).

How much: pounds 36.

8

PAUL & JOE LIPSTICK IN FRENCH CANCAN

This glossy, pinky-apricot lipstick is one of the most exquisite you'll find this spring, and it is extremely versatile since it can be teamed with strong or pale eye colours. Worn with the pastels of the Fresh eyeshadow palette (No 7) or the coral shade of Chanel's Ruban Perle (No 46), it is coquettish and natural, but paired with darker browns and smoky eyes, it takes on a 960s flavour. It looks especially fab with Red Earth blusher (No ). Where from: Harrods, Knightsbridge, London SW (020-7730 234); Fenwick of Bond St, London W; The Beauty Store, Royal Exchange Court, Glasgow.

How much: pounds 4.

9

DKNY BE DELICIOUS BODY LOTION

Donna Karan's brand new fragrance, Be Delicious, is a zingy scent with a mouthwatering top-note of apple mixed with cucumber and grapefruit, a slightly heady floral heart, and a sandalwood and amber base. Applying this lightweight and quickly absorbed lotion is the perfect way to give yourself a kick start every day: it's cool, refreshing and energising. And its lingering scent is very sexy... Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0730 232566).

How much: pounds 22.

0

LANCOME ILLUMINATING MAKE-UP BASE

If the harsh winter weather has taken its toll on your skin and left it red and blotchy, don't despair: Lancome's new make-up base will sort you out nicely. This lilac-coloured cream effectively cancels out any seasonal redness in the skin, and generally evens out the complexion so you don't have to do a major cover-up job with foundation, concealer and powder. A lifesaver when you're short of time in the morning. Where from: major department stores nationwide.

How much: pounds 9.50.

NO7 BLUSH TINT

Boots' No7 collection has had a major make-over, and in addition to some svelte new packaging, it boasts various new products, including this fabulous blusher. Easier to use and kinder to the skin than many cream blushers, it comes in a little tube and has a light texture which makes blending a breeze. It's so sheer that it's hard to make a mistake, even if you usually have Aunt Sally tendencies when it comes to blusher application. Comes in three natural-looking shades. Where from: selected branches of Boots (for stockists call 0845 070 8090) from 5 February.

How much: pounds 9.50.

2

SHISEIDO BENEFIANCE PURE RETINOL INSTANT TREATMENT EYE MASK

Okay, it's never quite the same doing these things at home, rather than having them done for you in a salon, but as relaxing and effective DIY treatments go, this one - from Shiseido's cult anti-ageing range - is a winner. These under-eye masks contain the wrinkle-busting wonder ingredient retinol, a pure form of Vitamin A, which improves skin cell renewal and plumps up the skin. Fifteen minutes after use, fine lines are softened, and the face feels moisturised and looks brighter. Where from: exclusively at Harrods from 6 February, and at major department stores from 27 February (for stockists call 020-7630 55).

How much: pounds 45.

3

RMK NAIL COLOR IN CHERRY

Ditch those dark, vampy varnishes and splash out on some summery shades, because the forecast for nails this spring is dominated by vibrant, fruity colours along with delicate pastels. This sparkling, pinky-red varnish, from the cult Japanese company RMK, is guaranteed to lift your spirits. Wear it on short, neat fingernails - or save it for the warmer weather when you'll be flashing your feet in a pair of killer sandals. Where from: Harvey Nichols, Knightsbridge, London SW7 (mail order: 020- 7325 5000).

How much: pounds 2.

4

THE BODY SHOP AFRICA SPA HONEY BUTTER

If you tend to avoid treating rough skin on the hands, feet and elbows because you can't bear the greasy film left by most of the products designed to tackle these areas, you must check out this creamy balm which, although rich and buttery, is easily absorbed and produces an instant sensation of smoothness. In other words, apply this on your hard-done-by feet last thing at night, and you can still get into bed without worrying about sticking to the sheets. Where from: The Body Shop stores nationwide (for stockists call 0903 844554).

How much: pounds 0.

5

MOLTON BROWN `REFINED' FACE SHIMMER

This gorgeous powder is released into its own brush, so it can easily be stashed in your handbag and whipped out when a sprinkling of pixie dust is required for tired, dull skin. With tiny particles of rose-pink and silver, it can be used to sculpt the facial contours while giving the complexion a lift. And if you're hitting the town and baring a bit of flesh, it's ideal for adding a subtle shimmer to the shoulders and decollete. Where from: Molton Brown shops, Molton Brown By Mail, PO Box 254, London NW6 or call 020-7625 6550 or visit www.moltonbrown.co.uk

How much: pounds 23.

6

YVES SAINT LAURENT POUDRE SUR MESURE

This opulent gold tub not only looks like it belongs on a movie star's dressing table, but it cleverly only releases as much loose powder as you're likely to need at one go. Simply turn the dial and a dusting's worth of powder pops up through the holes. Available in four shades (including an ivory which is perfect for Celtic skins), this fine powder provides lasting protection against unwanted shine, but avoids making the skin look flat. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0444 255700).

How much: pounds 28.

7

CLARINS SOFT CREAM EYE COLOURS

If your previous experiences with cream eye-shadows has left you convinced that they all slide into the crease of the lid five minutes after application, you won't believe your eyes when you try this new version. It actually stays put! It lasts and lasts and lasts, and will still be there when you are ready to open the eye make-up remover bottle. There are six metallic shades to choose from, and they all look great whether worn individually or blended with another. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0800 036 3558).

How much: pounds 2.

8

DIOR KISSES IN CANDY APPLE

This limited edition set from Dior comprises three cute pink glosses which come in smaller-than-average tubes - the ideal size for just a couple of seasons' wear. And let's face it, after a couple of seasons, you'll be ready to move on to the next hot gloss. Each gloss in this trio has a different appearance - one is sparkly, one is shiny and the other is pearly - but they can all make the lips look fuller, whether worn alone or on top of a solid colour base. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0932 233908) while stocks last.

How much: pounds 32.

9

LANCOME ABSOLUE BODY

As we get older, our skin inevitably becomes slacker and drier. This sumptuous, balm-like, cream was created with middle-aged flesh in mind, and aims to target all the major concerns that women experience about the look of their naked bodies as they mature. It helps to tone the skin and keep it supple, while providing all the nourishment that's necessary to prevent it from feeling dry. This one's in a class of its own - with a price tag to match. Where from: major department stores from 4 February.

How much: pounds 99.

20

MARKS & SPENCER AUTOGRAPH ILLUMINATING RADIANCE BOOST

This glimmering cream-gel is a fantastic pick-me-up for most complexions when they're looking a bit dull and jaded. Older skins especially will benefit. A flesh-coloured make- up base, it suits all tones, except the naturally very pale (think Nicole Kidman and her ilk). Use it all over the face, or just on the forehead, nose and cheeks - in other words, all the places where you'd expect to catch the sun first on a bright day. Where from: selected Marks & Spencer stores (for stockists call 0845 302 234).

How much: pounds 3.

2

DIOR BLUSH SOFT POWDER BLUSH IN TAHITI PINK

This spring, your cheeks should carry a healthy, natural-looking glow. A gentle flush is really all that's needed, and this soft and extremely pretty pink blusher, one of this season's limited editions, is just the thing. It's so soft and natural-looking that even blusher brush-phobes couldn't go wrong with it. Team with a sheer, bright-pink lipstick (No 3, for example) for a polished but sexy take on the ultra-feminine look. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0932 233908) while stocks last.

How much: pounds 22.

22

LANCOME CRAYON KOHL IN LE BLEU DE JIM

Many of the models at the catwalk shows for the coming season sported bold, bright eyeliner instead of the conventional black or brown, and there are some extremely vivid shades of pencil to choose from this spring. One of the loveliest and most wearable is this royal blue shade, which is stunning whether used subtly - to add just a dash of colour to an otherwise natural eye look - or in a more overt fashion. Strange that it's named after a character in a black-and-white film. Where from: major department stores.

How much: pounds 2.50.

23

MARKS AND SPENCER CERISO LIP TEASE IN TREAT

It might not look too promising in its tube - it looks very strong and glittery - but this gloss, a fusion of gold and dusky pink, is one of the prettiest and most versatile around. Used sparingly, it has quite a natural appearance, but apply it in a thick coating, and it looks stunning: a metallic peachy pink shade, which works with most eyeshadows and blushers. Also in its favour is the fact that it is not at all sticky or tacky, so no need to worry about wisps of hair attaching to it or lips becoming glued together. Where from: selected Marks & Spencer stores (for stockists call 0845 302 234).

How much: pounds 5.

24

ME MINE LIFT ME UP POLISHING BODY SCRUB

One of a new range of natural body products just launched, this is a gorgeous scrub that makes exfoliation a pleasure rather than a necessary, pre-self-tanning chore. With just the minimum amount of rubbing, it morphs into a creamy lather, leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth. And what's more, since it's a blend of Egyptian rose geranium and Brazilian bois de rose, it smells sublime. Where from: mail order and stockists: 0923 77988.

How much: pounds 4.

25

MARIO BADESCU DRYING LOTION

Even supermodels suffer from spots from time to time - although you wouldn't necessarily know that because they have the cream of the crop of all zit-zappers at their disposal. The moment an outbreak occurs, they hit it with a dab of this blend of calamine and salicylic acid, which then works overnight to clear up the mess and stop it from spreading. Where from: Harvey Nichols, Knightsbridge, London SW7 (mail order: 020- 7235 5000).

How much: pounds 5.

26

DUCLEOR PURETe EXFOLIANTE

If your skin needs a wake-up call for spring, look no further than the latest exfoliator from the French aromatherapy company Decleor. Exfoliating no longer needs to feel like rubbing a grater against your face: this fruity smelling, deep-cleansing scrub is super-gentle - it contains soothing jojoba and orange waters - and is veryefficient. Pepper essential oil perks up the skin as it stimulates the circulation, while peach oil and milk leave it feeling soft and smooth. Where from: salons, spas and major department stores (for stockists call 020-733 8780).

How much: pounds 22.

27

LAURA MERCIER EYE COLOUR DUO IN AZURE

Laura Mercier's new collection is called Watercolours, and this lovely duo of sheer eyeshadows sums it up perfectly. It contains a pale mint- green and a deep bluey-green that may contrast starkly side-by-side in their compact, but which actually blend together beautifully to give a wash of colour on the eyelids that's as intense or as subtle as you want it to be. Gorgeous when teamed with the Paul & Joe lipstick (see No 8) or a Dior gloss (see No 8). Where from: Selfridges, Oxford St, London W (08708 377377) and Space NK branches (020-8740 2085).

How much: pounds 7.

28

LANCOME JUICY ROUGE PALETTE

Lancome's spring collection is inspired by French beauties of the 960s and, colour-wise, the emphasis is really on the eyes - all Mediterranean blues and sea greens. Its choices for lips are classic shades and this Pop Art-inspired compact contains four versatile tones of the company's long-lasting glossy lipwear - a nude, a pearly pink, a subtle beige and a cherry red - which can be worn individually or mixed with each other. Where from: major department stores.

How much: pounds 28.50.

29

CLARINS TOTAL BODY LIFT

Clarins has already done more than its fair share in the battle against cellulite, but with this new body lotion, it's firing on all cylinders. Total Body Lift is different because it targets every level of the skin that contributes to the formation of cellulite. It helps to slow the development of cellulite, speeds up the release of trapped excess fat, stimulates the body's elimination of fat and improves the firmness of the skin. In other words, start now and a bikini bare-able body could be yours come the summer. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0800 036 3558).

How much: pounds 28.

30

RED EARTH HONEY LIP TREATMENT

Somewhere between lipstick-style lip balms, which invariably aren't heavy-duty enough to tackle seriously chapped lips, and gloss-like ones, which are too gooey to wear under lip colour, lies this fantastic product. It's sticky and looks like a gloss when it's applied, but it dries very quickly and applying lipstick on top is no problem whatsoever. A bonus is that, since it consists of 89 per cent Japanese honey, it tastes absolutely delicious. Where from: selected House of Fraser stores and www.redearth.com

How much: pounds 2.

3

BOBBI BROWN SHIMMER BRICK IN ROSE

A rosy glow is essential to this season's look, a fact not lost on Manhattan make-up guru Bobbi Brown, who has created a rose version of her successful Shimmer Brick compacts for spring 2005. A quintet of five shimmering shades, which range from a pearly white-pink through to a peachy-pink, it suits most skins and can be used in a variety of ways: on the eyes, as a highlighter on the brow and cheeks, or, all swirled together, as a blusher. A powdery alternative to Chanel's Ruban Perle (see No 46). Where from: selected department stores (for stockists call 0730 232566).

How much: pounds 27.

32

ESTEE LAUDER HYDRA COMPLETE MULTI-LEVEL MOISTURE EYE GEL CREME

Many lifestyle factors contribute to puffy, tired eyes - late nights, stress, alcohol, too much salty food - so it's an extremely common problem, and one which the beauty companies are beginning to take on. If you suffer from baggy eyes when you wake up in the morning, you'll want to know about this cooling cream, which uses a cocktail of marine and botanical ingredients to reduce the puffiness, retain moisture and plump out the fine lines around the eyes. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0730 232566) from 7 February.

How much: pounds 26.

33

DIOR ADDICT LIGHT FEEL VIBRANT LIPCOLOR IN FILTERED PINK

If you're sallow-skinned or dark, or if you fancy going for the 960s look touted by the likes of Lancome, where the emphasis is on brightly coloured eyeshadow, then this limited- edition lipstick is just the ticket. It's a frosty pale-pink shade, which, with its creamy texture, has a luxurious look and feels very moisturising. It is especially good for lips that haven't quite recovered from the harsh winter air. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0932 233908) while stocks last.

How much: pounds 5.

34

THE BODY SHOP PASSION FRUIT BATH & SHOWER GEL

If you're in the market for something to wake you up in the morning, this zesty and invigorating bath and shower gel is ideal. Exotic and fresh- smelling, it is part of a new range of passionfruit products, which The Body Shop is bringing out in time for Valentine's Day. Its scent is not exactly the most seductive ever translated into a shower gel, but it might leave you feeling suitably fruity come 4 February. Where from: The Body Shop stores nationwide (for stockists call 0903 844554).

How much: pounds 4.50.

35

KIEHL'S CRYSTE MARINE CREAM

After a couple of days of using this day and night cream, you're likely to notice a new smoothness and radiance to your complexion. Its formulation has been founded on the botanical Cryste Marine, which is found on rock formations in the Mediterranean and which has a similar effect on the skin as retinol: it rejuvenates, improves the skin's resilience and minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It's also a very soothing moisturiser, and worth trying even if ageing isn't yet a concern. Where from: Kiehl's, Monmouth St, London and selected stores nationwide (stockists and mail order: 020-7240 24).

How much: pounds 38.

36

GUERLAIN METEORITES POWDER FOR THE FACE IN PINK FRESH

Guerlain's Meteorites have been around for a while now and many companies have copied the concept: instead of being loose or pressed into a compact, this powder comes in the form of differently coloured balls over the top of which you run your powder brush. This season's new Pink Fresh colours are ideal for perking up lifeless skin, and are great for anyone with a pale complexion and an aversion to bronzing powders. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0932 233909).

How much: pounds 27.

37

DIOR 5-COLOUR EYESHADOW IN DOLCE VITA

Concentrated and pressed into their allotted spaces in this compact, these five eyeshadow shades look scary and rather off-putting, especially to anyone with a phobia of vivid colours. But worry not: they actually provide a wispy veil of colour on the eyelids, if you apply them with your fingers. The pearly white, silvery-mauve, iridescent pink and metallic browny-pink work well together and suit any complexion. And even the frighteningly garish green looks surprisingly pretty when washed over the other colours. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0932 233908).

How much: pounds 32.

38

YVES SAINT LAURENT LA LAQUE 3 EN

Having neat, healthy and polished-looking nails is a doddle with this new nail lacquer which - especially if you're prepared to go au natural colour-wise - is all you need this season. It performs a trio of functions: it can be used as a protective base coat, which boosts the lasting power of your varnish, it can be worn alone as a clear gloss or it can be a shiny top coat which also protects the colour beneath. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0444 255700).

How much: pounds 3.50.

39

ELIZABETH ARDEN EIGHT HOUR CREAM HAND TREATMENT

There is nothing worse than applying hand cream only to find that when you unexpectedly have to wash your mitts 0 minutes later, the cream is still sitting there just waiting to go all gooey when the water hits it. This sensational hand cream - a spin-off of the much-feted, but greasy, Eight Hour Cream - can work wonders on hands paying the price for braving the winter without gloves, washing too many dishes or changing too many nappies. Where from: larger branches of Boots and selected department stores (for stockists call 020-7574 2722).

How much: pounds 5.

40

MARKS & SPENCER AUTOGRAPH REVITALISING MOISTURE BASE

Dewy, polished skin is a big trend for this spring and summer, and - as this new addition to the M&S Autograph range demonstrates, it doesn't necessarily mean having to invest in a new foundation. A silky, slightly pearlised gel, it leaves skin refreshed, moisturised and glowing. Foundation goes on a treat and takes on a luminous quality. Where from: selected Marks & Spencer stores (for stockists call 0845 302 234).

How much: pounds 3.

4

YVES SAINT LAURENT LISSE EXPERT ADVANCED ANTI-WRINKLE CREAM

This clever cream goes to the top of the class when it comes to taking on wrinkles. Why? Because, unlike other anti-ageing products, it adapts to suit the skin of each individual. It acts on the areas of the face where the wearer is most prone to wrinkles by stimulating the skin to fight back. And while you're waiting for the results - usually about a month - you can benefit from its environmental protection, lasting moisturisation and the fact that it leaves skin looking healthier. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0444 255700).

How much: pounds 30.

CLARINS WONDER VOLUME MASCARA

The latest mascara that anyone with short, stumpy lashes should try is this new addition to the Clarins collection. With a key look of the season being pastel eye shades teamed with brightly coloured lips, lashes have to be well defined to balance out the equation - and this mascara does the business. It curls, plumps up and separates the lashes, while strengthening them and making them look healthy and glossy. Available in three colours. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 0800 036 3558).

How much: pounds 5.50.

42

43

CHANEL NAIL COLOUR IN FRENCH MANICURE

Natural but groomed nails are spring 2005's main alternative to bright pinks and reds, and there are any number of rose and cream shades to choose from. This varnish is perfect for anyone who has ever forked out for a professional French manicure only to realise that their five-year-old child could have painted a more even white line along the tips of their nails. With this white polish, you - or your five-year-old - can practise the art of the FM, and at minimum expense. Where from: major department stores (for stockists call 020-7493 3836) from 7 February.

How much: pounds 2.

44

RODIAL BODY SCULPTOR

Kylie is reputed to be a fan of Rodial, a cult range of body products based around pomegranate, a traditional Greek wonder ingredient long known to be one of nature's most powerful anti-oxidants. It's a fair bet that if she has seen recent magazine snaps of her cellulite-speckled thighs, Ms Minogue will have a bottle of this gel on stand-by as it will stimulate tissue drainage and leave her skin feeling firmer and looking more toned. Where from: Harvey Nichols stores in Manchester, Leeds, Edinburgh and Knightsbridge, London SW6 (mail order: 020-7235 5000).

How much: pounds 50.

45

PAUL & JOE MOISTURE GEL

Best known for their covetable, girlie, cosmetics, Paul & Joe also have a lovely range of Japanese skincare - the latest addition to which is this refreshing gel, which uses liquid crystal to smooth away unsightly patches of dry, flaky skin. A great base for make-up, it comes in a dinky little tube which is the ideal size for toting around in your handbag, so that you can dab on some gel to revive tired make-up and dehydrated skin whenever necessary. Where from: Harrods, Knightsbridge; Fenwick of Bond St; The Beauty Store, Royal Exchange Court, Glasgow; mail order from Harrods on 020-7730 234.

How much: pounds 5.50.

46

CHANEL RUBEN PERLe IN SUNLIGHT

Chanel's "star", limited edition, product for this spring is a stunner - a pearly, peachy-coloured cream, which can be used for a multitude of pretty purposes. It can be an eyeshadow (it looks lovely whether worn alone or over another colour), a highlighter on the face (along the tops of cheekbones and on the brow bones) or on the lips (alone or with lipstick underneath) for a metallic effect. Made with apricot and other light oils, it is very easy to use - whichever effect you're aiming for. Where from: major department stores (stockists: 020-7493 3836) from 7 February, while stocks last.

How much: pounds 28.

47

BOBBI BROWN NUDE ON NUDE SHIMMER WASH EYESHADOW PALETTE

If the new, bright pastel eye colours are not for you and you prefer to stick to classic neutral shades, this sleek and slim limited edition palette is just the job: it contains a quintet of beige, biscuity and brown eye shadows. These may be conservative colours, but their light, blendable texture and shimmery appearance are bang up to date and make them perfect for the transition from winter to spring. Where from: selected department stores (for stockists call 0730 232566).

How much: pounds 36.

48

LANCOME SWEET BALM

Don't blame us if you get hooked on this new balm. You'll have to resist the urge to lick your lips clean of this creamy, pastel-coloured balm, which is considerably less sticky than most lip treatments. It's deeply hydrating and has a hint of pale colour about it - making it an ideal substitute for a pale or clear gloss. It comes in two tasty flavours, sorry colours, strawberry milk and coconut milk. Where from: major department stores.

How much: pounds 2.

49

MARKS & SPENCER DIVINE GLAMOUR WHIPPED BODY CREAM

There's no need to spend a fortune if all you're looking for from your body cream is good moisturisation, a feeling of smoothness on the skin and a pleasant fragrance. This cream may be light and readily absorbed by the skin, but it feels decadently rich and, since it smells of a French patisserie, good enough to eat. And its girlie, Lulu Guinness-inspired, pink striped packaging makes it even more desirable. Where from: selected Marks & Spencer stores (for stockists call 0845 302 234).

How much: pounds 6.

50

STRIVECTIN-SD INTENSIVE CONCENTRATE

This hot new American gel was created to tackle existing stretch marks. If you follow the instructions and use it thrice daily, you'll find those purple-coloured grooves feeling less deep and looking less vivid. However, when samples were handed out in market research, the ambiguous label led testers to try it out on their faces, with the result that it is now also being hailed by many in the industry as one of the best anti-wrinkle creams of recent times. (And at this price, it would need to be!) Where from: Harvey Nichols stores in Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Knightsbridge, London SW6 (mail order: 020-7235 5000).

How much: pounds 35.