Learn the beauty alphabet

Spending the holidays fighting with your hair? Heat and humidity up the frizz factor so you’ll need to up the ante on moisturising .

Kerastase Soleil CC Cream

is a flexible leave-in treatment that transforms out-of-control locks into a glossy, groomed mane, and can be used on wet or dry hair. €23

Skincare meets make up with Dior BB Eye Cream, a one-stop-shop for brightening and correcting the under-eye area – the tinted formula evens out skin and works wonders on tired-looking eyes – and if that's not enough, the SPF20 will protect against summer sun. €41

Pollution is up there with the sun in making your skin look old before its time.

SkinCeuticals

is an expert when it comes to targeting environmental damage; its high-end

CE Ferulic

not only protects against the dreaded free radicals but replenishes antioxidants depleted by pollution. It’s not cheap at €150, but a little goes a long way and they did spend 30 years researching it. Combine with a sunblock (I love this brand’s

Mineral Radiance UV Defense SPF 50

, €43, a silky veil of protectiveness with a flattering natural tint) for effective outdoor skincare. See skinceuticals.co.uk

Nails in need of some TLC? Strengthen and condition them with Sally Hansen Nail Rehab X. The sheer pink base coat hides damage, fills in ridges while building them up again with nourishing jasmine and rose extracts. €10.95

Eye products come in different formulas but my favourite, especially in summer, has to be a gel. The cooling sensation seems to invigorate tired, puffy eyes from the get-go. The sophisticated cocktail of vitamins, antioxidants and peptides in Environ C-Quence Eye Gel targets lines and rejuvenates the fine skin around the eyes. €59.95. For stockists see iiaa.com

Wake up your skin with The Body Shop's Vitamin E Aqua Boost Sorbet, a zingy moisturising treat from one of this brand's most effective ranges. Vitamin E combines with mattifying minerals to absorb oil and keep skin shine free, just perfect for beating that holiday heat. €15 pclarke@irishtimes.com