Jaya Seal Ghosh» actress I do not use a lot of make-up. But when I have to do it for shoots I prefer to use M.A.C and Derma products. They are non-abrasive and suit my skin. I am not too particular about eye-shadow brands but I do like nude shades in lipsticks. Only when I go for parties do I change into more vibrant shades of lipsticks. For skincare I use Garnier products. I feel like I can trust these products as I have used them for a long time. For my hair I use L’Oreal shampoos. I oil my hair with warm oil once a week and do not use conditioners. My beauty salon routine is also pretty simple. I get a hair spa and pedicure on a regular basis. As for facials I get them done by a beautician at home with a Shehnaz Gold facial pack. Pic: Rashbehari Das

I have been highlighting my hair for years and am fed up of its super-dry ends. My friend says it’s possible to get blonde highlights without bleach — is this really the case and will it improve the condition of my hair?

Priyanka, email

Your friend is correct — you can highlight with a high lift tint, not just with bleach. It sounds as though you’ve probably had highlights over highlights, which is why the ends have become so dry and damaged. It is really important that you do not overlap colour applications. Instead, use a variety of colours, which will make your blonde look more toned and natural, rather than just using bleach on its own.

I would love to know how to do good dark eyes in a few simple steps without looking too made-up for a night out.

Jasmine, email

The key to this look is beautiful, flawless skin, so enhance your foundation by sealing with light powder. Banish any imperfections with a concealer, then highlight with pale pink blush. Dust your eyelids with translucent powder and use a black kohl liner to draw a thick line along your socket, flicking out at the edges. Next, heavily line the top and bottom lashes, then using a soft brush blend dark grey shadow from the line down towards your lashes. Complete with a slick of mascara and a nude shade of lipstick with a matt finish.

TOP tip

For brighter, wider eyes apply one thin coat of mascara to both upper and lower lashes. Also, instead of kohl use a white eye-liner on the lower rim of your eyes. For a more dramatic look, allow the first coat to dry completely then apply a second coat concentrating on the base of the lash. For a real eye-opener, use an eyelash curler before applying mascara. Curl gently at the base of the lashes, but never beyond the centre of the lashes. Don’t clamp down on one spot for too long or you’ll get a sharp angle.

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