Don't give in to winter

L to R: L'Oreal Sublime, Elizabeth Arden Sun Science, Yves Saint Laurent Springtime, MAC foundation, and Innoxa hair removal cream.

Treat yourself to a winter makeover and pretend you're on a tropical island

Innoxa On and Off Hair Removal Cream
$15.95 for 100ml

Hair removal is not really something you like to talk about in polite society. But it's got to be done. Spread this cream on unwanted hair and five minutes later it washes off down the plughole. The aloe vera helps to soothe skin. Can be used on the face and body.

From selected department stores and pharmacies.

Elizabeth Arden Sun Science Superblock Cream SPF30+
$19.95 for 100ml

Have this ready in the event of any last-minute holidays in the sun or when the sun does manage to break through. This is like blackout curtains - not much gets through. Water resistant for up to an hour in the drink too.

From selected department stores and pharmacies.

L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Tinted Self-Tanning Gel
$25.95 for 150ml

Fake tan always perks me up at this time. They should probably dole it out during a Scandinavian winter. This one would do nicely. It's instant, gives a terrific, natural look, is easily rubbed in and has AHAs to make sure the colour is even. Best of all, you can see where you've gone with this so it's practically fool-proof.

From selected department stores, pharmacies and supermarkets.

M.A.C Hyperreal Foundation Bronze Reflections
$62 for 30ml

Does wonders for faces that look as though they've wintered in Alaska. This bronzed pearlescent liquid foundation gives skin a brilliant, golden glow. Can be used alone, mixed with regular foundation, as it's not much into coverage on its own, or on the decolletage if you're so inclined. A winner.

From Smith & Caughey's Newmarket and M.A.C Chancery.

Yves Saint Laurent Paris Rose Enchantees Springtime Fragrance
$107 for 125ml

At least you can smell like Paris in the spring with this limited edition fragrance, which starts and ends with roses. It goes through the garden - apricot and lilac rose as well as orange blossom, violet, musk and sandalwood. Utterly feminine.

From selected department stores and pharmacies from August 1.