Each week Woman’s Day Beauty Editor, Mary Zavaglia answers your beauty questions. Question I recently bought a new ceramic straightener and I read in the user’s manual that it doesn’t do any damage to your hair, though it still recommends that I use an extremely expensive UV filter. Can you shed some light on what […]

One of the most challenging fashion dilemmas for women over 40 is how to dress appropriately for their age. Style expert Kim Johnson Gross explains “our bodies are in transition. Our lifestyles are changing. We may be becoming empty nesters, divorcing, starting new jobs.” As your bodies are changing, so must your clothes, it’s important […]

Woman’s Day Fashion Editor Olivia Waugh solves your fashion dilemas. Question I like to wear fitted t-shirts and singlet tops but hate unsmooth lines showing from underneath. Is there a way I can avoid this? — Nina, VIC Answer We suggest trying the Snugbod! It creates a smooth effect under your clothing, holding you firmly […]

Question Hi, I am mid 40’s and my straight, highlighted hair (shoulder length) is thinning. Do those hair re-growth type shampoos on the market help re-grow hair? — Tee Answer I am a sceptic about this — so I have to say no. The best thing you can do for fine hair, or hair that […]

White linen pants are a summer wardrobe essential. This season the nautical trend was revived and we saw reds, whites and navy flood into stores around the country. Our suggestion would be to team your wide-legged pants with a fitted top (i.e. a nautical-inspired striped t-shirt). It’s important to balance your outfit to achieve the […]

Are you looking to buy a pair of knee-high boots for the cooler months ahead? With winter just around the corner, it’s a good idea to look at simple ways to update your existing wardrobe. Incorporating a great pair of knee-high boots to your winter dressing is a fabulous way to achieve a more modern […]

Question Help! My jewellery collection is getting out of control and is becoming a tangled mess. How can I keep it organised and visible? — Sam, NSW. Answer The Icebirg Jewellery Hanger is the perfect storage solution! Hang it inside your cupboard door so it won’t take up any shelf space, and store your earrings, […]

Question Whenever I apply creamy eye shadow on my eyelid, it gets smudged after half an hour or an hour. I have tried base and everything, even a very expensive eye shadow serum which claimed to keep shimmery shadow but it just didn’t work for me. Please help me to solve this problem. I want […]

Question: I have very oily skin. I wear make up to work on a daily basis. I end up with an incredibly oily face by the end of the day. Can you recommend a foundation that helps prevent or lessen the oil production? ? Penny Answer: Hi Penny, Steer away from cream and liquid foundations, […]

Question Not every woman wants to flaunt their midline. I’d love to find a pair of long pants that are not hipsters but go to the waist without cutting into the “in-between”. Where should I be looking? Answer You’re in luck this season as the pant waistline is finally getting a rise! Some great brands […]

Question With all the lovely summer dresses out there, why can’t I find one with sleeves to cover the top of my arms? People with flabby upper arms find this so frustrating. Answer With the Christmas party season in full swing, there is nothing more appropriate to wear than a summer dress. However, many of […]

Question: Ms. Zavaglia, I have been straightening my hair for years now and have decided to go naturally, but find my hair looks frizzy and untamed. How can I get a natural wave in my hair with little effort? ? Kristie Answer: Hi Kristie, Try to get into the habit of using an intensive hair […]

Australian Princess contestants Leanne Churchill and Stephanie Jenkinson received makeovers courtesy of Woman’s Day after winning one of the show’s weekly challenges. Here’s how to recreate our Australian Princess look: Step one Make-up artist Fiona Corrigan-Robertson created a dewy complexion by applying a liquid foundation in a honey shade with a damp make-up sponge, starting […]

Question: Ms. Zavaglia, I was wondering if you could recommend a good men’s shaving line. My wife continues to buy me many products that don’t seem to work. I continue to get razor burn and ingrown hairs! Please help! Warm Regards from the USA! Anthony Pisano Answer: Hi Anthony, Have you tried the Nivea For […]

Question My brows need shaping, but I have no idea how to do that to suit my face. Can you help? Renee, Vic. Answer Beautifully groomed eyebrows can make a huge difference to your appearance. Estée Lauder brow specialist Diana Schofield from the Estée Lauder Brow Bar at Myer, Sydney, says, “The most important rule […]

Question I have small, deep-set eyes. How can I make them look bigger? L. Tran, West Perth, WA Answer Make-up artist Napoleon Perdis says, “When it comes to making up your eyes, aim to keep them fresh and open in appearance. It is best to use highlight colours, such as pearls and shimmers [try Napoleon […]

Everyone experiences daily hair loss to some degree — it’s part of the normal hair cycle, which goes through growth and resting phases. According to David Salinger, director of the International Society of Trichologists (hair and scalp specialists), we lose an average of about 60 to 70 hairs each day. While this is completely normal, […]

Happy to ditch their hospital scrubs for party frocks, Jacinta Stapleton and Tammy MacIntosh joined their All Saints co-stars at one of Sydney Harbour’s most glamorous mansions for a casual-but-chic feast. Celebrity make-up artist Chris Coonrod and award-winning hairdresser David Keough created our All Saints looks for the party season. Follow their step-by-step instructions on […]

Question: I’ve been using wipes for my face and they work, but it sometimes stings and hurts in some areas of where I have the pimples. Are the wipes harsh for my face or is that normal? ? Gabriella. Answer: Hi Gabriella, If your wipes are stinging your face then they are too strong for […]

Question: I am getting married soon and have a dark V on my chest and dark lower arms (because of working outside) in comparison to the rest of my body. I don’t really want to look tanned, but don’t want the darker bits to stand out. What should I do? ? Megan. Answer: To lighten […]

Question I need a sundress to take me right through summer that can be worn to various occasions — bbqs, beach trips, parties etc. Do you know where I can find one? — Kim. Answer We’ve found a great one! It’s by Ladakh and we think it’s the perfect Summer dress! It’s a fun colour […]

Question How do I grow strong nails? My nails are weak and split at the edges. How do I fix them? — Trish. Answer Hi Trish, Eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of water will often assist in the growth of healthier and stronger nails. Try also massaging cuticle oil on and around your […]

Question I am unable to wear heels of any height due to foot problems. Any ideas what I can wear when a “dressy” occasion arises? Answer High heels and the summer party season do not need to go hand in hand. This very common fashion dilemma can be easily solved with a pair of jewelled […]

This summer is definitely the season of the dress. With a plethora of choices to choose from, the AWW Fashion Team understands that the task of choosing the perfect summer dress to suit your body type can often be a little daunting. If there’s such a thing as the universal dress to fit and flatter […]

Question I want to stay out of the sun this summer, but still want to have a bit of colour. How do I use fake tan and make it look natural? Eleanor, via email Answer Start by choosing the right shade for your skin colour. Don’t go for “dark” or “deep” shades if your skin […]

Question How do I get rid of cracked heels? Rania, Casula, NSW Answer Cracks or fissures in your heels occur when there’s a build-up of thick, dry skin, so it’s very important to exfoliate them regularly. A quick, easy-to-maintain routine starts by keeping a pedi-paddle handy in the shower. After showering, lightly towel-dry your feet […]

Question How can I stop my skin flaking under my foundation? Tammie, via e-mail Answer It sounds like you need to start by prepping your skin before applying your foundation. Exfoliating and moisturising your skin every day is essential to give a smooth base for your foundation. You could also try using a primer, such […]

Question: Hi Mary, I’m in my early fifties and would like to know what is a really good lotion or cream for deep wrinkles. I have oily skin so can’t use really rich creams. There are so many new ones claiming to give great results. Please help. ? Thanks, Stephanie. Answer: It can be confusing […]

Question: I have been dyeing my shoulder length hair black for some years now, but would like to change the colour. Can I do this with the black? Or do I have to wait for it to grow out and then cut the black out? ? Resli Answer: Yes, it’s possible to change the colour […]

Question: My eyelids, especially closest to my lashes, are always red; more so if I am tired. How can I prevent this and make it less noticeable? Jane Answer: Firstly visit your optometrist or doctor to find out why your eyelids are red as you may have a reoccurring infection or may be allergic to […]

Question What are the fashion must-haves for the spring-summer season this year? Answer With summer just around the corner, here is a list of this season’s must-have pieces: ¾ length Bermuda shorts Nautical-inspired striped t-shirts Espadrilles Broderie anglaise lace sun dress Metallic strappy sandals Perfect white shirt Crisp white wide-leg linen pants Print skirt, graphic […]

Every woman is constantly searching for the perfect pair of jeans. Here is The Australian Women’s Weekly’s easy guide to help you find the perfect pair of jeans. The perfect jeans to flatter your bottom A pair of straight-leg jeans in a rigid denim will accentuate your curves without exaggerating them. Top stockists: Sussan, 1300 […]

Question I’ve noticed patches of pigmentation starting to appear on my face. Is there anything I can do at home to remove them or at least lessen their appearance? B. Wilkins, via e-mail Answer Tricia Haron, Clinique’s national education manager, says: “In the past, dark and uneven patches on the skin were blamed solely on […]

Question: I always have split ends. Could straightening my hair with a straightening iron be the cause? How can I stop them and get my hair back into good condition? Ilsa, Newcastle, NSW Answer: Julie Zavaglia, director of Glow Salon in Sydney, explains, “Some types of hair are more prone to split ends than others. […]

Jacqueline Achilles is a fitness instructor and part-time model who wants a career in fashion. “I was always told my breast size wasn’t ideal,” says part-time model Jacqueline Achilles. “And when I went shopping I felt limited about what fashionable clothes I could wear.” So Jacqueline had breast implants and now, she says, “I feel […]

Question I’m 20 and already have spider veins on my legs. What’s the best treatment for them? Answer According to Dr Deborah Davis, sclerotherapy (injecting the vein with a solution that irritates the vein lining, causing it to collapse) is the best way to treat spider veins. “Although some clients request the laser,” says Dr […]

Question: I can’t seem to stop my lipstick from bleeding. Any advice? Answer: It’s worth taking the time to prepare the lips. Start with a lip primer to plump up and soften lips. Make-up artist Noni Smith likes to use a colourless wax product around the lips to seal and fill in little cracks. She […]

Question I’m desperately looking for a fitted, single-breasted rain or trench coat that’s showerproof. Where can I find one? Heather, via e-mail Answer Many fashion labels are including the trenchcoat in their latest collection as it continues to be a fashion classic and a winter wardrobe must have. But just because it looks good on […]

What are the fashion must-haves this winter? Answer Here’s a list of everything you must add to your wardrobe this season: Trench coat Long cardigan Round-toe boots A long-sleeved print dress Jeans Tailored blazer Full skirt (to wear with your boots) Happy shopping! The AWW Fashion Team

Question My nails always grow to a certain length and then break. What can I do to help them grow? Yessar, via e-mail Answer Manicurist Christina Fitzgerald says that it is possible to grow your nails past their regular breaking point with a little tender love and care. Here are her tips for healthy nails: […]

Question: I’m starting a job that requires I wear make-up, but my skin is really sensitive — I get puffy eyes from eyeshadow and itchy lips from lipstick. Can you suggest make-up I can use? Suzanne, Ryde, NSW Answer: Mineral make-up would be ideal for your skin. It’s made from pure minerals such as mica, […]

Question: My hair is very oily and I have a flaky scalp. How can I stop this? Liliana, Auburn, NSW Answer: This sounds like a classic case of dandruff and, although you can’t completely cure it, you can keep it under control. Researchers now think dandruff may be caused by a yeast-like fungus called malassezia. […]

Question I’ve bought a strappy black dress with white spots and a big black bow at the front for a formal I’m attending in two weeks. What accessories should I match with it? Madeleine, via email Answer Your choice sounds fabulous—very classic chic. Try to keep the accessories simple and black. Match a pair of […]

Question I’m quite short and thin and everytime I try on a pair of jeans (even skinny leg) they’re always very loose and baggy around my bum and legs. Generally I’m a size 7-8, depending on brands. Where do I start? Madeline, via e-mail Answer Look for jeans made from a stretch denim to ensure […]

Question What is the solution to minimising large pores? Clover, via email. Answer Pores are passageways for oil to be released into the skin,” explains dermatologist Dr David Orentreich. “They may be barely visible on people prone to drier skin, whereas people with oily or thicker skin tend to have larger, more noticeable pores. They […]

Question How do vitamin supplements help maintain the quality of your skin through the ageing process? Is there any need to take them? L. Watson, via email. Answer In his book, The Murad Method, dermatologist Dr Howard Murad says the amount of vitamins you get from foods depends on how fresh they are, how they’ve […]

Question: I’ve tried many foundations and I always have the same problem. The nose area becomes shiny and has a blotchy look. What am I doing wrong? Michelle, Lara VIC. Answer: Preparation is essential. Start with a regular skincare regimen of cleansing, exfoliating and moisturising. Exfoliating will help to minimise uneven, flaky skin and maximise […]

Question I have cropped, boy-short hair. I love the military style that is in this winter, as well as the vests and hats. How do I wear these and look feminine at the same time? Jess, via e-mail. Answer To keep your look feminine with these winter trends make sure you add a feminine element […]

Question I have excessively dry skin all over my body, as well as dandruff. Can you recommend anything? Joan, East Ringwood, Vic. Answer Naturopath and herbalist Penelope Sach says excessively dry skin needs to be treated both internally and externally. For a topical application, she suggests twice-daily treatment with an at-home “miracle worker” cream that […]

Question: I am not a person who can spend an hour doing my make-up. Is there a quick routine you can tell me about? Michelle, Croydon, NSW. Answer: According to make-up artist Napoleon Perdis, your daily routine can be fast and simple. Follow his “five steps in five minutes” advice. Step 1: Skin. Start with […]

Question: What is the best treatment to keep my wavy hair straight without doing any damage and making it frizz too much? Kelly Cook, Wangaratta, VIC. Answer: Anthony Nader of RAW salon in Darlinghurst, Sydney, suggests taming wavy hair by using products that contain lanolin for moisture, such as Schwarzkopf ExtraCare ZeroFrizz Finishing Polish, $5, […]

Question: I wax and no matter how much I exfoliate with body scrub, I always have painful ingrown hairs on my bikini line and underarms. Is there a better way to get rid of them or prevent them? Chloe Answer: I sympathise with you — unfortunately, some people are just prone to ingrown hairs. The […]

Question: What kind of product would you recommend for dry skin and acne scars? I have just turned 32 and my skin has become dull and flaky. Huey Answer: I would suggest you look around for a great face exfoliant and use it once a week. I would also suggest you start using products that […]

Question: I have heard that grey eyeliner and mascara are the best for blue eyes — is this true? Leanne Holynski Answer: The reason people suggest such a colour for blue eyes is that it makes your eyes look bluer, which, of course, is very flattering. If you are a little nervous about using colour […]

Question: No matter what I do, my eyebrows always seem to be out of control and they never stay put. I have tried eyebrow mascaras and even applying hair mousse with an eyebrow brush. But all they seem to do is rub off my foundation, as I apply it first. Am I applying it properly? […]

Question I’m 14 and am attending my auntie’s non-traditional wedding soon. I’m wearing a simple short white dress with silver heels. I was wondering, what jewellery would look best with it? Meg, via email. Answer I would suggest to follow the direction of your shoe choice and keep all your accessories silver. Try to keep […]

Question I work as an executive assistant to the MD in a large corporation and need to look businesslike and corporate but find this extremely difficult in the hot and steamy weather. Do you have any suggestions on what I can wear that is both cool and businesslike? I am also a plus size. Karen, […]

Question Does the mother of the bride have to wear a hat? My daughter is getting married on Sydney Harbour later this month and I do not suit hats and I hate having ‘hat hair’, particularly if I need to take it off for dancing later. Dorothy, via e-mail. Answer These days dress codes are […]

Question I’m attending a black tie function and I’m after a simple plain black clutch bag. I’ll be wearing a floor length black satin dress. Kim, via e-mail. Answer Try the following bag companies. You can call them to find out your closest stockist. Olga Berg, Ph: 03 9419 6711 Reidels, Ph: 03 9383 6644 […]

Question I am 14 and I really want to decorate my room. The only thing I don’t know what to do with is my wardrobe. Should I organise it in sections, colours or what goes with what? Jess, via e-mail. Answer We suggest breaking it up into sections. Try these sections which you can then […]

Question: I have dry skin but working in an air-conditioned office is making it even worse! I apply moisturiser every day and drink water through the day — what else can I do? Alison Slyns Answer: The best advice I can give you is to give yourself a moisturising mask once a week and a […]

Question I’m starting to get crow’s-feet. I know there are lots of great creams on the market, but why do we get wrinkles and how else can I avoid them besides using these creams? Ingrid, Caloundra, Qld. Answer Tom Mammone, director of Clinique Biological Research and Development, says, “Sunlight causes approximately 90 percent of what […]

Question: I never wear eyeshadow because I don’t know where to apply it, what colours to use or how many. Can you tell me what to use for the best effect? I have light-blue eyes. Vanessa, via e-mail. Answer: Richard Dean of Max Factor suggests some very simple rules to follow for foolproof, flattering eye […]

Question: My hair is broken from root to tip — how can I repair it? Sondra, via e-mail. Answer: “Just stop whatever you’re doing right now,” says Robert Maiolo of Maiolo Copeland Salon in Sydney’s Darlinghurst. “A few things could be causing the hair to break. One of the biggest offenders is the straightening iron. […]

Question: Could you tell me what make-up blotting paper is and where I can get it? K Answer: Blotting paper is very thin pieces of tissue paper with a dusting of translucent powder. You gently press them onto any shiny bits of your face to soak up excess oil. The Body Shop has a brand […]

Question My nails have become weak and flaky. I have recently started swimming and was wondering if it’s related to chlorine or other chemicals in the pool? Is there any way I can protect my nails so they will once again grow long and strong? Jacci, via email. Answer Nails are normally highly flexible and […]

Question How can I get rid of blackheads and stop my pores filling up with what causes them to form? Jane Markby, Glen Waverley, VIC. Answer “Blackheads are composed mainly of a mixture of sebum [the skin’s natural oil] and dead skin cells, which have oxidised at the surface of a follicle,” Emma Hobson, from […]

Question: I suddenly have a whole head of grey hair! What’s the best way to look after it? Sangetta, via email. Answer: Grey hair happens when the hair follicles stop producing melanin, the substance that gives colour to our hair. As we age, melanin production decreases, hence the increase in the appearance of grey hairs. […]

Question Is there a way to reduce cellulite? Shona Jackson, via email. Answer Dreaded cellulite can be made to appear less obvious in just a few weeks. It’s all to do with circulation. Cellulite consists of toxins and lymph fluid that have become trapped in the skin’s support tissue because of poor circulation. In its […]

Question What’s the best way to apply a fake tan? Liz Johns, via email. Answer Unless you’re a professional, you are bound to end up with a streak here and there, or patchy spots on your elbows and knees. “It pays to have a professional spray tan,” advises Martina Parker, from the Sydney-based mobile tanning […]

Question During summer, my skin seems to be a lot oilier. Is there anything I can do to counteract this? Lou Hampton, via email. Answer Some skin types may seem oilier in summer, but it may be that you are perspiring more, which can make oily-skin problems seem worse. Be careful not to over-cleanse in […]

Question I’ve been suffering from a few breakouts during the summer holidays and am not sure why. Is it something to do with the weather do you think? Sandra Aventis, via email. Answer “Take a look at your sunblock,” says Dr Tom Mammone, Clinique’s director of biological research and development. “There are two types of […]

Question I have terrible psoriasis and I’m dreading baring my skin with summer approaching. What’s the latest treatment? W. Harris, Surry Hills, NSW. Answer Dermatologist Dr Jo-Ann See explains that psoriasis is a skin condition partly caused by overactive T-cells in the immune system triggering an inflammatory reaction in the skin. This causes skin cells […]

Question: Could you please tell me what makes a lipstick long-wearing? I’m so confused by matt/demi-matt/cream/gloss formulations. Please explain! Sonia Schwartz, via email. Answer: “The longest lasting lipsticks are matte,” says Poppy King, colour designer for Prescriptives and former lipstick creator. “They have a high level of pigment and no shine. Pigments come in a […]

Question: Why does my hair colour fade so quickly in summer and what can I do to prevent it? P. Burke, Fitzroy, Vic. Answer: While long, hot summers and lazy days at the beach are some of the best things about living in Australia, a less desirable side effect is overexposure to the sun and […]

Question Is it appropriate for the mother of the bride to wear a black dress? If not, what would you advise? I don’t want to wear a fuddy duddy suit as everyone seems to be suggesting. Sue Thomas, via email. Answer Traditionally, black would not be the ideal colour for the mother of the bride. […]

Question I am going to the beach on the weekend and I haven’t lost any weight since I having my baby so I am quite large. What should I wear in the water? My thighs are covered in cellulite and I am a size 18. Brianna, via email. Answer Stripping down to your swimmers can […]

Question What colour and style heels would best suit a pale yellow, shimmery cocktail dress? Kim, via email. Answer Sounds like you need a strappy, gold or bronze shoe. Silver could also work if you had some silver jewellery to tie it all together. Look in stores like Zu, Betts, Mollini, Myer, David Jones, and […]

Question: How do I keep my eyeliner from smudging? I wear good foundation and concealer, but my eyes look like they have been out all night, while the rest of my face is glowing! Anna Cosic, via e-mail. Answer: “To start, you need to determine if it’s actually your eyeliner or your mascara that’s smudging,” […]

Question: What is the best treatment for removing vertical lines on your upper lip? Sue, via e-mail. Answer: According to Sophy Dennett, from the Avana Clinic in Bondi, Sydney, “The latest treatment that’s giving the best results for ridding lines above the mouth is Botox, an injectable substance used to temporarily paralyse muscle function. When […]

Question: I have reddish-brown hair and would like to dye it blonde, without having to spend a fortune at the hairdressers. How can I use home products? Tracey, via e-mail. Answer: It can be tricky dying brown hair with red undertones blonde without going “brassy”. When trying this yourself, the Schwarzkopf Advice Line suggests starting […]

Question: I have just had my hair permed and now I find it a little dry. What is the best product to put on my hair to help nourish it? Tania Atkins Answer: There are a number of over the counter treatments that you can buy to help nourish hair. My favourite is the VO5 […]

Question: I have tried almost every eyeliner on the market and spent a lot of money trying to find one that does not smudge under my eyes. It’s driving me crazy. Any suggestions? Tamara Answer: You need to apply a primer or foundation over your lids to allow your pencil to stay put. Once you’ve […]

Question: I am right-handed but the cuticles on my right hand are terrible. How can I get nice cuticles which will make my hands look better? Christine Answer: You need to apply a nourishing hand and cuticle cream such as Cutex Hand & Nail Cream. It is available at supermarkets, variety stores and chemists. Alternatively, […]

Question: I have really thin, straight hair, especially from the front — how can I get it to look fuller? Anita Answer: Start by using a volumising shampoo and conditioner and a styling mousse. When drying your hair use a large, round bristle brush first and then roll hair up into Velcro rollers. After you […]

When to plant your roses Now — spring to early summer. Because most roses bloom most magnificently in spring, so you can see them in bloom to choose which one you want to buy. Winter is the time to buy bare root roses, ones that have been dug out of the ground when they are […]

Shade Roses won’t bloom in dense shade. Check they haven’t been overgrown by a tree or shrub. Roses grown against the house wall may be shaded by the eaves as they grow taller. Prune them lower or cut away vegetation around them. Starvation If the flowers are small or lose their petals after a day […]

Question I’m a 30-year-old woman and my scalp is very oily. I colour my hair every 15 days to cover up the grey. My hair falls out a lot and has started to thin. What can I do to prevent this? Kiran Benjamin, via e-mail. Answer “Stop what you’re doing right now!” says hairstylist Andrew […]

Question I have terrible ingrown hairs on my bikini line from waxing. They are very painful, not to mention unsightly. Are there any treatments to stop them? Samantha Michelle, via e-mail. Answer If you’re prone to ingrown hairs, there’s nothing more frustrating than watching your beautiful, just-waxed bikini line erupting into a mass of red […]

Question: I’m getting married in March next year and I would like some help with how to apply my eyeshadow. I am going for the smoky/romantic/sexy look. I have blond hair and blue eyes. Thanks, Nikki Answer: If you are doing your own make-up, stock up on waterproof mascara and eyeliner. Apply a beige eyeshadow […]

Question: How do I know which foundation to use, and what brand do you suggest for a natural look? Thanks, Amber H Answer: For a natural look you need to use a liquid foundation and you need to apply it with a damp make-up sponge. My favourite brand at the moment is L’Oreal.

Question: Which is the best and most economical eye cream on the market? I have tried most — even collagen eye cream — nothing helps. Lee Answer: An eye cream is a must but your choice depends on what sort of problem you have. If you get dark circles you need a product that contains […]