While the latest eye shadows and trendy lip colours can certainly make a dramatic impact, they are useless if your basic complexion isn’t flawless.

Getting a perfect base can be pretty tricky, but with the wide range of illuminating foundations and coloured concealers on the market, a little skill can go a long way.

The key to a perfect base is to choose products in shades that match your skin. When foundation is smoothed into your face, it should be the same colour as your skin. Not lighter, not two shades more orange, the same!

There are a number of rules to live by when choosing foundation. Here are my top three.

• The skin on your face is a different shade to that on your hand, so try the colour on your cheek.
• Always wait until you are in natural light to assess whether it is the one for you. Artificial light is just not reliable!
• Finally, take your skin type into account when choosing a formula. Those with oily or combination skin should opt for an oil-free, mattifying formula, while those with a drier complexion need a more moisturising foundation.

Concealer is another must-have for flawless skin. If you suffer from dark circles, opt for a yellow-toned concealer that is one shade lighter than your foundation.

If you are lucky enough not too need too much coverage, try a light reflecting formula, such as YSL Touche Éclat, which will make sure those peepers are looking bright and wide-open.

Covering up any imperfections is key, so make sure to use a tinted concealer. One handiest tip is to neutralise those angry red spots with a green tinted product. Luckily, many cosmetics ranges now offer palettes with different shades for different areas for undetectable coverage.

One of my must-haves for A/W is the new Undercover Pot from Laura Mercier (€42). This handbag friendly compact contains the award-winning Secret Camouflage, Secret Concealer and Translucent Loose Setting Powder for touch-ups on the go, so you have no excuse not to look perfect!

Next week, we will look at how to put these products to work – happy shopping!

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