The first time I met Laura Mercier, she scared the bejaysus out of me. I’d gone to the hotel she was staying at, along with other beauty writers, and we while were all struggling not to be entirely enveloped by ridiculously plush sofas, I think I (innocently) asked a question she didn’t like and boy, she barked. I really can’t remember the details – only the sting! So, I wasn’t exactly looking forward to meeting her again. We meet in a gorgeous hotel – in the swish, whitewashed spa - and she has her new collection spread around her. Only this time, she isn’t feeling well. She has vision disturbance and I point out that it could be the beginning of a migraine and she should eat carbs. She does, and feels better. Regal, beautiful and immaculately dressed with a curious cross-mix of huge and tiny jewellery, she likes to tell it how it is. So do I. No wonder my nose was out of joint last time – straight talkers rarely like to be spoken to the same way! So, lesson learned – don’t dish it out if you can’t take it.

I ended up staying far longer than I had intended to; her previous abrupt manner this time was muted with infectious passion about her subject, and as is the way when someone is deeply knowledgeable about a topic of interest, I found her mesmerising and fascinating. Just minded my P’s and Q’s a bit better!

Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge For Lips And Cheeks in Powder Pink
This has become a daily staple for me, but I can’t understand why it is sold as being for lips and cheeks. It far out-performs on cheeks and leaves lips looking way too matt and lacklustre for my liking. In fact, I’d say it highlights any dryness. As a crème blush, however, it’s a winner. £16.50.

Dupe Scoop From Marks & Spencer
I’m more than impressed with this Lip Gloss Wand from Marks & Spencer in Nude. A light shimmer with milky beige undertones makes this a perfect dupe for pricier nude glosses. It lasts as well as any other gloss I’ve used and costs £2.50. Need I say more?! www.marksandspencer.com

Institut Esthederm Eau Cellular Energizing Skin Care Water
A refreshing spritz designed to replenish vitality: I love Institut Esthederm products – especially their amazing Sun range that is the best I have ever used, but I just don’t get this product at all. The spritz got minerals and trace elements that supposedly help other products work more effectively, but I challenge whether it actually can or does. I suspect that there is probably no way to tell whether it does or it doesn’t, and it looks and feels like a product that is unnecessary. It’s only £13-ish compared to their suncare that comes in at around £35 a tube, so something isn’t adding up.

Revlon Lipgloss In Lilac Pastelle
In the tube, this looks scary-lilac, but on the lip translates to a nude-like shade with a lilac hint. Predicted to be the sell-out shade of spring, I can see why – it just has an edgy look with a pastel wash that is wearable and flattering. Impressed. £6.49 from March.

Estee Lauder Take It Away Make Up Remover Towelettes
I’m really having a Lauder moment – recently they’ve upped the ante colour-wise which has in turn made me relook at other products. These wipes (yes, it really is no good giving them the fancy name above – they’re wipes) are some of the best I’ve ever used…they get every last scrap of make up off the face and leave a moisturising film on the skin. Definitely a holiday or weekend away essential, where heavy bottles are a no-no. And, I liked the costing breakdown on the website; at £18.50 for a pack, it works out at 41p a swipe. www.esteelauder.co.uk

Mavala Nail Shield
If you suffer from weak nails, as I do, then this is your salvation. It seriously out-performs any other nail strengthening product I have ever used and it has found a permanent place in my beauty cupboard. Using firstly a coat of nylon fibres and strengthen the nails followed by a coat of sealer to smooth over, I’ve found my nails are unrecognisably improved and have a sneaky feeling it is making my nail varnish last longer, too. I found it for £13.50 on www.salonskincare.co.uk (RRP £15.95).

InLight Organic Night Balm
A blend of botanical oils – macademia, carrot and Evening Primrose – combined with lavender, sesame and sunflower make for probably the most moisturising balm I’ve ever used. It’s really for those with ultra dry skin, and if you are suffering from a chapped or very dehydrated complexion, I’d challenge you to find something to out-moisturise this gorgeously soft and pliable balm. The only downside I found was the smell, which is very botanical and earthy – but maybe that is a plus for those who love organics (and this brand’s credentials are impeccable) and skincare that doesn’t contain artificial fragrancing. £34, www.inlight-online.co.uk.