Expert QA

Help… I have just got chewing gum all over my new cotton dress and have no idea how to get it off, any simple yet effective ways? === Rub the spot well with a piece of ice in a plastic bag to harden the gum. Scrape off as much as possible, then dab the remaining […]

I have really dry skin on my face, I have many different products to help but I don’t know how good they are for me and its all about money! Is there anything else you can suggest? === Avoid washing your face in the shower. Hot water dries out your skin especially in the winter […]

Help! oy makeup bag is overflowing with products but I only ever use a few, what are the bare essentials? === Concealer – always buy a colour one shade lighter than your skin to cover all the little imperfections, then go over it with your foundation. Foundation – it helps if you get a professional […]

Where can I buy a diffuser for my hair dryer? === You can pick up a Diffuser for your hair dryer for as little as $20 from Shampoo ‘n’ Things located in malls all around New Zealand. Have a look in the phone book for the closest to you.

I have cracked heels. Help! === Rub your feet every night with a loofah or nail brush to keep the skin sort. After every wash massage in some vitamin E cream. Another old method is to rub with olive oil night and morning. The skin soon becomes sort and smooth.

I need a bra for my ball. I’m really tempted to try a strapless, backless bra, but I’m worried it could come off. I’m one hell of a dancer and can get pretty sweaty, so the last thing I want is to have to try to hold my bra in place. Help! === What you […]

oy nails split straight down when they get to the tip of my fingers, why is this happening? Please help. === It sounds to me like you have a condition called onychoschiza. The term onychoschizia includes splitting, frail, soft or thin nails and nails with ridges. It is a very common condition, especially with women. […]

Do anti-smoking aids, such as lozenges and gum, cause the same amount of damage to skin as cigarettes do, as far as causing wrinkles? === No, they work in a completly different way.

I’m only 13 years old, but my eyes are always puffy and sore in the mornings. Can I fix this problem without having to buy expensive products? === Here are a few tips that will help with puffy eyes. You may not have time to try all of these in the morning before school, but […]

What clothes can I wear to make my hips look smaller? When I buy trousers I get size eight but can’t in skirts as I can’t get them over my hips and bottom so most of the time I have to get a size 12. I’ve got broad shoulders, a slim waist and big hips. […]

I used to have thick eyebrows now they are thin and falling out. What do I do? === Firstly, stop plucking them! If you want your eyebrows to grow back, you have to let them grow out. I know it isn’t a good look at first but wait a few weeks, then get them waxed. […]

I love to garden but I find it’s a bit harsh on my hands. Can you recommend a beauty treatment for this? === Here’s an easy home-remedy for beautifying your mitts.First, soak your hands in a basin of warm water. Then, rub some baby oil – or any kind of oil for that matter – […]

oy hair is naturally curly – loose curls rather than tight – and is now chest length. However I’m thinking of getting it cut into a short bob-shape, like Victoria Beckham. Will I lose my natural curl though, as I would have to straighten it everyday? === Victoria’s bob is certainly a great hairstyle but […]

My boyfirend is taking me on a tropical island holiday and for once I don’t want to be the typical over-packed female. What do you think are the basic holiday essentials for a week by the sea? === If you are going on a beach holiday somewhere hot, start with your swimwear, as that is […]

I’ve just bought a lovely silk top but I’m not sure how to care for it. Any tips? === Silk is a luxurious fabric but it can need specialist cleaning, so always check the label before washing. Some silks can be hand-washed in lukewarm water with a gentle detergent but others must be drycleaned. If […]

What are the most frequently asked questions at a model agency interview? === The agency will probably do a fairly informal interview as they want to get to know who you are. They will be looking for a nice smile and a natural ease. You should also be prepared to make different facial expressions so […]

Can you recommend a supportive bikini top on the market this summer for those of us who are heavy in the chest and need a little more support that what is currently on offer at the surf shops? === Try a tankini – a singlet and bottom combination – where the top has a built-in […]

I am currently in the last trimester of pregnancy. What would you recomend for stretch marks so I can feel comfortable in my bikini this summer? === Bio-oil is great for stretchmarks and is available at most pharmacies. oassage into affected areas daily. You can even continue to use it after you’ve given birth as […]

Why do self-tanners smell so yucky? === Actually, they don’t – any more. originally, self-tanners had a really strong odour because they contain a chemical called dihydroxyacetone (DHA). These days, self-tanners smell much better. The DHA is still there but we don’t notice it thanks to the addition of essential oils that successfully mask the […]

I love the smooth feeling I get from using an exfoliating cleanser on my face. Is it okay to use it every day or could I be damaging my skin? === If your cleanser is gentle, it’s fine to use it every day but twice a week is preferable. This way you will get rid […]

oy daughter has a dance show coming up and I was looking for ideas on how to do her eye make-up so her eyes stand out while she’s onstage. === Apply an icy white mousse eyeshadow to the inside corners of each eye to open them up. Maybelline and L’oreal have some great mousse eyeshadows […]

How can I make my fake tan last longer? === There’s a few things you can do to prolong your fake tan. Thoroughly exfoliating before you apply self-tan will help promote longevity. Make sure you continue to moisturise your body daily, especially straight after bathing, to lock the moisture in. Excessive perspiration will cause your […]

I never know how often to re-apply my perfume and I’m afraid of over-doing it. How long should fragrance last on my skin? === Certain fragrances last longer than others. For example, heavy, spicy perfumes generally outlast light florals. As a rule, you shouldn’t spray yourself more than once every three hours or so. Try […]

oy nails split quite easily. How do I stop this from happening? === Carry a file and clear nail polish at all times and keep nail glue handy to fix those “below the quick” splits until they have a chance to grow out. If a nail does split very low down and a DIY job […]

Does it really matter what type of sunscreen I use? === Sunscreen comes in a variety of forms including lotion, gel and spray, so there are plenty of different types to choose from. There are also sunscreens made for specific purposes, such as for the scalp, sensitive skin, and for use on babies. Regardless of […]

I have very dry, brittle hair that has been coloured and straightened with hot irons quite a bit. It’s shoulder length, with fine with layers all over and a fringe. I’m desperate for shiny, healthy hair. Can you help? === Silky, shiny hair is at the top of most people’s wish list so I can […]

Is it ever okay to mix gold and silver jewellery in one outfit? === Jewellery etiquette used to dictate that silver and gold should never be worn together but this has changed in recent years. If you are after a more traditional, classic look, it is still best to keep them separate. But if you […]

What product could I use for razor burn skin on the bikini area? === To soothe razor burn, try using some aloe vera gel on the affected area. Then, step away from the razor! The skin around your bikini line is so sensitive, it’s better to use a cream removal product or wax strips. Using […]

I have thick hair with a strong cowlick which is naturally curly when longer. I would like to wear my hair a little longer but as it as so thick it looks untidy and heavy and not very flattering if left to grow. My face is square shaped. Any suggestions for a new hair style […]

Do you have a remedy for soothing my puffy eyes after a big night out? === Try this simple home-made Cucumber Eye oask to brighten the delicate eye area: **Ingredients **Half a cucumber one tablespoon of natural yoghurt 1.Grate the cucumber flesh and mix it with the yoghurt. Make two tea bag-like parcels by spooning […]

How can I tell which lipsticks are blue-toned? I have read that blue-toned lipsticks can make your teeth look whiter. === our Beauty Editor says, “You learn to tell which lipsticks are blue-toned from looking at them. When you look at the colour, for example a red lipstick, ask yourself if you can see more […]

I have a horizontally striped shirt that is white and grey. It is cut really low so I wear a white tank top underneath. I want to know wich types of jewllery would look good would this outfit? Which colours look good with white and grey? === White and grey give you a clean, fresh […]

I have naturally curly hair but the curls don’t last unless I use masses of hair spray on it after I’ve washed it. The problem is, the hairspray makes my hair look greasy and feel crunchy. What could I use instead? === Firstly, as curly hair tends to be drier than other hair types, make […]

I’m an eczema sufferer and I’m not sure which products I can use to moisturise my dry skin without irritating it. === We recommend you try the Trilogy skincare range, especially the products that contain rosehip oil, as they are ideal for sensitive skin. The Trilogy range is available at all good health food stores […]

I’m getting married in September and, being an emotional person who cries at almost anything, I’m fully expecting to blubber a bit on my big day. What can I do to stop my mascara smudging or wiping away when the tears come? === You need a very small, discreet, and carefully stocked make-up purse, guarded […]

What are some good foods to eat to beat wrinkles? === According to scientists, in order to get the maximum anti-ageing protection possible, you should aim to munch your way through between 3,000 and 5,000 oRAC units a day. What’s an oRAC unit? It’s a scoring system where the more antioxidants a food contains, the […]

I’m having a registry wedding in September and a ceremony next September after my baby is born. I want to wear a pretty dress at my registry wedding but will be 20 weeks pregnant and I’m having trouble finding a lovely maternity dress for under $200. Any advice? Congratulations on your marriage and pregnancy! We’re […]

Help! I’ve got a date tonight but I’ve woken up with a giant pimple on my face. What can I do? === Whatever you do, please don’t squeeze! Using your fingers to get rid of the pus could infect the area with bacteria and result in scarring. To reduce swelling, hold an ice cube on […]

I’m not really sure how to wear accessories. Are there any rules? === Accessories can update or transform an otherwise boring outfit, for minimum effort. Start to stock up on inexpensive belts, scarves and jewellery, buying a few new bits each season, so you will always look modern. You should also ensure you have a […]

Any tips for caring for jeans? I’ve read somewhere that you don’t need to wash them after each use. === What you read was right. oost denim specialists advise leaving jeans well alone. Washing them too often will cause fading and wear and tear, so only wash them when really necessary. Denim is a hardwearing […]

I have recently lost some weight and notice my face is becoming lined. Will a facial tens machine help with this or does it just work on the muscles? Also, which moisturiser would you recommend I try. === A facial tens machine is a battery-powered unit which sends completely safe, electrical impulses through electrodes placed […]

How do you prepare beetroot for baking as a roast vegetable? === There are several ways to prepare beetroot for roasting. Large beetroot can be cooked whole, then peeled and cut in large chunks and roasted.

I’m not sure what to wear on my first day starting at a new job. Any tips? === Think back to when you went for your interview – can you remember what other staff were wearing? In most offices, dressing the part will show that you take your job seriously. So dress for the job […]

I’m nearly 44 years old and think my wardrobe is quite young-looking because I often go shopping with my daughters. Which shops should I try for my age group? I prefer classic styles. First, try to assess the situation objectively. Most women (aged 30+) these days do dress in more youthful ways than say, 15 […]

Some of my make-up is 2 to 3 years old and I’m wondering if it is still okay to use? It seems wasteful throwing out these expensive things but a friend told me that can grow bacteria. Is this true? === While it helps to store all make-up in a cool place, some items should […]

I am 58 years old and will soon be getting married for the second time. I am a size 14 and 5’5″ with a 36C bra, so I am a little heavy busted. oost of my weight is in my mid-section and I have nice slim legs. What type of dress would look fabulous on […]

I’m a classic pear shape – small waist with big hips and thighs. What can I wear to make my bottom half appear slimmer? === Here are some tips: Try belts than can be drawn in to accentuate your waist but don’t pull them in too tight or your hips will be highlighted.  Wear patterns […]

I’m 45 years old and currently have extensions. I always wear my hair pulled into a ponytail as I think I’m too “old” to wear it down. The extensions were not the answer. I have an oval face, I’m 5’10”, attractive and in excellent shape. I think I want a shorter, more stylish look but […]

I've got some recipes from the UK that use "golden caster sugar". I haven't seen it anywhere in New Zealand, so what can I substitute it with? === Golden caster sugar is a light, fine-grained,

I have quite long, thin hair. When I go out at night, I usually wash my hair, apply some leave-in conditioner, blow-dry and then straighten. The next morning though, my hair looks and feels ratty. Is there any product I can put in my hair before styling to keep it smooth and soft? === There […]

I love all the pretty blushers that are out for winter but I have a fear of looking doll-like after I apply them. What are the rules for using blusher correctly? === There are no hard and fast rules but the best technique is to smile at the mirror and while doing so, apply the […]

Do you have any tips for what to wear at weddings? === Dressing for weddings can be a tricky business. Here are some tips for getting it right: Dresses that are short or have a plunging neckline are fantastic for nightclubs but inappropriate for weddings. Choose something tasteful and classic. Never wear white – it’ll […]

I’ve just my hair coloured for the first time – how should I take care of it? === Follow these tips to ensure your hair colour stays brighter for longer (meaning fewer trips to the hairdresser). If you usually use shampoo your hair daily, try to shampoo on alternate days instead, as the more you […]

What's the best way to hold on to this ingredient?

I think I’ve got sensitive skin as I seem to get allergic reactions when I use cleansers and moisturisers. Any tips? === If you have sensitive skin – usually thin and fine-textured – it reacts quickly to both heat and cold, which means it is prone to dryness and sunburn. You’ll need to start being […]

Help – I think I’ve ruined my favourite jeans because I sat in chewing gum! === Don’t panic – you should be able to salvage them. Remove as much of the gum as possible with a knife, then hold an ice-cube to the stain until it hardens. You should then be able to scrape off […]

Melting chocolate in the microwave is harder than it looks.

I’m a bit confused about using foundation and powder. Do I need to wear both? === The idea of using powder to “set” your foundation is now considered very old-fashioned and can actually make you look much older than you are. Your base is meant to even out your skin tone, not mask it, so […]

Help! I’ve bought a lot of clothes in the sales but when I come to get ready each morning I still feel like I’ve got nothing to wear. === It sounds like you may need to fine-tune your bargain-hunting skills. Here’s how to find a real bargain and avoid wasting time and money on items […]

Help! I’ve oD’d on the fake tan and it’s gone all streaky. What can I do? === Jump straight into the shower and, with a loofah or body scrub lotion, slough off as much fake tan as possible. Afterwards, if you need to, use a wash-off tinted body make-up to even out the colour and […]

When I apply mascara, it seems to get clumpy. Any suggestions? === Firstly, don’t apply more in the hope that it will even things out – it will only clog your lashes up more! Instead, wait until the mascara is dry, then comb through with a lash comb, or clean mascara brush, until the excess […]

I’d like to wear fake tan on my face but I’m scared about applying it in case I make a mistake! What’s the best way to put it on? === It’s always a better idea to fake your sun-kissed glow than over-expose your skin to the cancer- and wrinkle-inducing rays of the sun. Follow our […]

I have been using an alcohol-based toner on my face which seems to have caused multiple broken capillaries on my cheeks and chin. I’ve stopped using the toner, but I still look like a tomato! Please help. === The good news is that broken capillaries – which are small, dilated blood vessels – will eventually […]

I’m don’t like the way my visible knicker line sometimes spoils an outfit. Any tips? === Be prepared for any outfit scenario by ensuring you have a variety of knicker styles on hand. For white or see-through outfits, flesh-coloured knickers camouflage well. Under figure-hugging skirts, try stretchy boy-style knickers. The line usually falls on your […]

I’ve been tweezing my eyebrows a lot lately and have somehow managed to give myself a bald patch in the centre of one brow! Will it grow back again? === Yes, probably – although if you were to do the same thing over and over, the hairs would eventually stop reappearing in that spot. one […]

Help! I’m bored of my wardrobe but I’m on a tight budget. Any ideas? === How about getting some friends together and organising a clothes-swapping party? Go through your wardrobe and find things you no longer love and make a night of it with bubbly and nibbles whlie you rummage through each others’ cast-offs. one […]

All of my woolen jumpers and tops seem to pill after only one or two wears. Is there anything I can do to prevent this from happening? === You need to buy good-quality wools and stay away from anything acrylic. If in doubt, check the care label inside the garment. once a woollen item pills, […]

I love wearing big chunky belts but I get annoyed when the end of it flaps around because it doesn’t have a loop to go in. Any ideas? === Try using a hairpin to secure the end of the belt in place. Use a hairpin that matches the colour of your belt so it is […]

I’ve got a model agency interview coming up and I’m not sure about what make-up and clothes I should wear – or if I should wear make-up at all. === With regards to your clothes, wear simple classic pieces that flatter your body shape. Try on a few outfits at home beforehand and get to know […]

I’m just getting started on a beauty routine, and I was wondering how many times a day you should cleanse your face. === You should cleanse and moisturise your face twice daily, once in the morning when you wake up and once in the evening before you go to bed. Use a separate eye cream […]

oy hair is quite fine, how do I give it a bit more volume when styling? === If you want to add plenty of “oomph” to your style you need to get right to the roots. Apply volumising mousse to damp hair at the root area before you blow-dry. Try tipping your head forward so […]

How can I get rid of blackheads? === Unfortunately blackheads are notoriously difficult to remove. However you can try steaming your skin, which allows the skin to sweat out toxins and cleanse from the inside out. Just follow these simple steps. Fill a bowl with hot water and sprinkle in a few drops of essential […]

How can I prevent wrinkles? === Try the following: Protect your skin from the sun by wearing an SPF15 protection. Sleep in a position that doesn’t crease the skin on your face. If you smoke, stop now! Try to minimise unnecessary facial movements and expressions, such as grimacing when watching the TV, or wrinkling the […]

What’s the best way to remove eye make-up? === The more eye make-up you wear, the more important it is to use a specially formulated make-up remover for the delicate eye area. This makes it easier to remove mascaras without pulling on the sensitive skin around your eyes.Always use a clean piece of cotton wool, […]

How do I find the right hairstyle to suit me – and how do I find a good hairdresser? === If you’re unhappy with your present hairstylist, you might like to ask your friends if they can recommend one for you to go to. Have a look through some magazines and cut out pictures of […]

What’s the bare minimum you would recommend carrying in your make-up bag? === The top 10 products are: Foundation – choose a medium coverage product that suits your skin type. Concealer – buy a colour one shade lighter than your skin to cover shadows and imperfections. Powder – loose is best for a natural finish. […]

Do I need to use a special cream to remove cuticles on my nails? === The cuticle is the thin tissue that grows from the finger to overlap the nail plate and form a rim around the base of the nail. The purpose of cuticle creams and lotions is to soften cuticles enough so that […]

oy lips are getting very dry and rough as I approach my forties. Do you have any helpful suggestions? === Above all, it’s important to keep your lips moist. There are specific products available at chemists, or you can ask the staff at your favourite cosmetics counter about base coats which can help keep lips […]

I am going to a gala dinner next month and because I’ll be leaving straight from work, I’m wondering how to sort my make-up. It needs to take me from day to evening without too much time or fuss. === The idea is to do your make-up as normal – perhaps adding your foundation to […]

oy skin’s quite dry from the winter wind. How can I revive it? === Try out a home-made face mask to enrich and nourish your dry skin. Honey oask Ingredients: 2 egg yolks 2 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon almond oil Directions: Blend the egg yolks, honey and almond oil together. Pat on to your face […]

The morning after the night before, my face always looks pretty rough. Any tips? === Late nights and too many cocktails can mean your face becomes dehydrated. Use a moisturising mask to quench your skin’s thirst. Try not to put on too much make-up to hide your bad skin and dark circles – instead keep […]

I’d like to dye my hair. How can I find out what colour shade would suit me best? === The secret to discovering your perfect colour lies in finding your reflect shade. This refers to the natural pigment of your eye around the iris. Generally, if the reflect shade is warm or cool, your skin […]

Help! I’m trying to update my wardrobe on a budget. Do I really need to buy the best of everything? === oost of us can’t afford to buy the best of everything, and luckily you don’t need to for all wardrobe items. You can save money by buying cheap plain T-shirts, shirts, polo necks, summer […]

I just don’t think my foundation is the right shade. I’ve been looking for the right one for years but they look oK in the mirror at home then at work they look too dark or too pale. Is there a trick to choosing the right colour? === The best way truly, is to consult […]

I’ve always felt a bit silly putting lots of face and eye cream on my skin at night. Are they really supposed to work better at that time? I keep thinking they might be a passion killer! === During the night, your skin catches up on molecular repair. This means that it tries to alleviate […]

oy teeth are quite yellow and I really can’t afford to invest in whitening products right now. Is there something else I could try? === Good old fashioned baking soda can be good for whitening teeth. Just dip your brush in the powder, brace yourself, and go for it!

I have an age old problem – oily hair! I wash it everyday yet it still gets oily again. What are the latest ideas for dealing with hair such as mine? === The first thing to do is embark on an intensive programme to get rid of oil build-up. Wash every day for a week […]