Hair SOS…

Questions, questions! We all have them about our hair, so we asked our panel of experts to give their definitive answers to your most pressing hair-mares…

How can I choose the right hair colour?

“The trick is to create as natural a look as possible,” explains Charles Worthington. “Discuss options with a colourist to identify your skin tone.”

I want more volume…

Andrew Collinge says, “Use a blow dry lotion, dry the roots with head tipped forward, take a round brush and dry the ends in sections. Put Velcro rollers around the crown and apply a little low heat. Cool, remove and rake with your fingers.”

How can I make my dull hair shine?

“Hair shines if the cuticle is flat,” says Richard Ward. “Use a natural bristle brush to condition the cuticle.”

New Season Compacts – Add a flush of colour to your look with this season’s beauty palettes…

BEST ON A BUDGET

MUA Professional Eye Palette Glitter Ball, £4

First impressions: A professional-looking palette with 12 shades ranging from ultra-wearable neutrals to on-trend brights.

Overall verdict: We love how the velvety soft shadows blend to create custom hues. The double-ended applicators with brush and sponge tips are perfect for applying and blending. A huge thumbs-up for the best staying power of all compacts tested – colours lasted from morning to night with no re-touching.

BEST FOR FACE

Clarins Colour Definition 3D Radiance Face Powder, £30

First impressions: A beautiful gold compact in a velvet pouch.

Overall verdict: We were impressed by the silky smooth powder that gave a wonderfully lightweight, subtle glow. A doddle to apply, we loved the way it made minor imperfections magically disappear! A must-have for the upcoming party season.

BEST FOR LIPS

Revlon Limited Edition Bordeaux In The Snow Lipgloss Palette, £7.49

First impressions: An expensive-looking lightweight compact with a wearable selection of lipglosses and a lipstick. The brush and lipstick are concealed in the base so the palette is a dinky size, perfect for carrying around in your handbag.

Overall verdict: We loved that the shades can be worn on their own or blended together for a custom shade. The glosses gave great shine and weren’t at all gloopy – the formula felt very moisturising and lasted well. Our testers even commented it gave better results than some premium brands they’ve tried. However, a mirror for touch-ups on the go would be a welcome addition to this compact.