Little changes that could make a big difference to your beauty regime

It’s easy to play it safe with a tried-and-tested beauty routine. But what if a subtle shake-up could solve a niggling issue, or save time?

Read on to discover the no-nos that might change your approach forever...

Applying heavy concealer:

“Swap that thick concealer for a concealer light in texture, that you can apply in buildable layers,” advises Justine Jenkins, celebrity make-up artist.

“When it comes to dark circles, the skin under the eyes is thin, so aim to achieve good coverage with as little product as possible.”

Switch it:

Lancôme Teint Miracle Corrector €32.50. This lightweight formula comes in two shades to lift even the darkest panda eyes. Apply a little product under the eye and blend by patting with your ring finger.

Using SPF over make-up:

We need SPF coverage even on cold, cloudy days, but adding a layer of SPF over your make-up can result in a meltdown, not to mention a zinc-y white residue.

“Liquid sunscreen should be applied under make-up, but ensure you allow a few minutes for it to bind to the skin cells,” recommends dermatologist Dr Mervyn Patterson.

“Once fully absorbed, apply make-up over the top.”

Switch it:

bareMinerals Mineral Veil Broad Spectrum SPF 25, €22.24 (Feelunique.com, free P&P).

For SPF top-ups over make-up, this mineral powder offers instant protection with the stroke of a brush.

Spraying perfume behind the ears:

It’s the go-to zone where many of us spritz our fragrance, but wearing scent behind your ears is actually a common mistake, especially if you want others to get a fragrant waft.

“The spot above the collar bone is better,” explains Lorna McKay, co-founder of The Perfume Society. “Spritz anywhere the blood is nearer to the skin.

“The wrists, the backs of your knees and throat are all definite fragrance hotspots,” she says.

Switch it:

Jo Malone Incense and Cedrat Cologne, €130 (brownthomas.ie). It has a much deeper intensity than your average scent, so you need less of it to make an impact.

Curling lashes after applying mascara:

“A lot of women use eyelash curlers after applying their mascara, which can cause your eyelashes to break,” according to Kirstin Piggott, who is a Rimmel London global make-up artist.

Switch it:

Rimmel 24HR Supercurler Volume & Curl Mascara, €9.99 (Boots.ie, from October). Negates the need for lash curlers, with a curl-enhancing wand and lift-and-hold formula.