Beauty: bronzer-free bronze

http://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2014/jun/07/beauty-bronze-free-bronzers-sali-hughes

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I've spent the past month travelling the country, answering women's beauty questions. I've discovered they're more scared of bronzer than of wrinkles. Too many orange faces papped for celebrity magazines, too many good intentions manifesting in muddy stripes and a hasty rub down with a wet wipe. It's inhibiting.

There are bronzer tutorials on theguardian.com, but it's perhaps time for the curious but resistant to look at alternatives. Bronzy glow can also be added with By Terry's Cellularose Brightening CC Lumi-Serum, £59. Apricot Glow is perfect for giving pale skins a boost, while Sunny Flash is for the darker or more willingly tanned. It's so sheer that it's impossible to get wrong and looks pretty with light makeup. Bronze needn't go all over – a flash can mimic the effect of a day in the sun.

Chanel's Illusion D'Ombre in Mirage (shown here), £25, has been on my eyes most days for months. The natural bronze finish brings a dapple of summery light to the face. Apply to lids (to just above the sockets) and it looks expert while essentially being finger paint. I finish with a golden lipgloss (rare for me, but it works) – in this case, Lustrous Sand, £7.99, by Max Factor.

Sali loves... summer primers

Illamasqua Matte Veil, £30, A matte version of the bestselling Hydra Veil, this primer is comfy, huge in size and great if your skin is oily or prone to menopausal hot flushes. Keeps makeup locked down for hours without caking.

Bourjois Happy Light Matte Serum Primer, £7.99This is excellent for the money. I preferred the other illuminating version, but if shine is your problem, go for this. Silky, smooth and with great staying power in hot weather. I'm dubious about the "one shade suits all" promise, however.

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer Protect SPF30, £29Laura Mercier is brilliant at primers and this combines all the usual qualities – easy application, top quality, smooth finish, long-lasting results – with high sun protection. Excellent.

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