Beauty therapist Sue Machesney sees a wide range of clients at her Bellaza Beauty Clinic in Ranelagh, including beauty editors, models and Dublin celebrities. And they are all asking her the same question at the minute: "How can I look fab for Christmas?"

Sue is a beauty trendsetter -- she was the first beauty therapist to introduce laser hair removal to Ireland, and her salon's list of treatments saw it short-listed in the Irish Beauty Professionals Top Five Salons. However, Sue's suggestions for looking great for the party season can be followed by anyone, whatever the budget.

Step 1: Moisturise

Sue says: "People don't realise just how much moisture is taken from skin after they shower and wash their hair. Salicylic acid is the must-have product this winter; it's an exfoliant and anti-inflammatory for sensitive, thin skin and it improves collagen and the thickness of skin (great for acne sufferers also).

"And if we're talking snow or sun, titanium oxide is the ingredient you need for extremes of protection from sun, windburn, cold and hot, and it reflects the light and keeps skin hydrated.

"Always make sure you moisturise your body before you blow-dry your hair as your skin will get dehydrated even more from the heat, which will lead to it getting over-sensitised and susceptible to being red and itchy."

Step 2: Take care of your hair

Sue says: "Over-treatment of hair together with harsh weather conditions, combined with excess shampoo residue, can lead to a build-up of toxins in the hair shafts. This can cause dry scalp as well as limp and lifeless hair.

"A great secret tip of mine is apple cider vinegar.

"I know it sounds odd, but, rinse your hair once a week with this and you will be shocked with the result. It leaves the hair shiny, bouncy and also stops dandruff."

Step 3: Get your make-up right

Sue says: "If you have any fine lines around your eyes or mouth, or even wrinkles, don't use foundation. Tinted moisturiser or a cream concealer is much better for covering age spots, marks or blemishes.

"Then use a non-sparkling bronze powder on top. This gives a more natural look.

"Cream luminate across the nose and upper cheeks is also great for giving your face a sheen, encouraging a more youthful look, and it doesn't sit into the lines making them look more pronounced.

"If you find your lipstick bleeds, use your lip-liner after applying your lipstick and then blend. Love any fine lines as they show character and, besides, laughter lines are beautiful. To keep the body's skin soft, use body oils after the bath or shower and exfoliate once a week.

"And to feel extra glamorous this Christmas, paint your nails with a colour instead of a plain French manicure."

Step 4: Don't forget your eyebrows

Sue says: "Eyebrows are often forgotten about but are essential for giving shape to your face. If you feel you are lacking eyebrows then semi-permanent make-up may be perfect for you. It gives a very natural look and lasts for two to three years.

"Alternatively, use a thin brush and eyeshadow to give a natural soft eyebrow. If you have untamed eyebrows then dampen them with hairspray and comb them down with an old toothbrush.

"Then fill in any gaps with a shadow brush using the same colour as your eyebrows."

Step 5: Tricky skin -- there are options

Sue says: "If you have combination or oily skin that is prone to spots, blackheads or angry patches always buy oil-free moisturiser. Also, always choose noncomedogenic make-up as this makes a significant difference to the skin and doesn't block the pores. (Noncomedogenic is a term applied to oils, lotions, and skin creams that do not block pores.)

"Also, if you are allergic to perfume on your skin don't panic. Spray your favourite perfume on to your hairbrush and brush your hair. You will feel and smell fabulous without getting a rash or sneezing as a result of your allergy."

Step 6: Get rid of those puffy eyes

Sue says: "Are you waking up with puffy eyes nearly every morning? Had one too many pre-Christmas parties? Well, that puffy feeling is a sign of toxins in your system.

"The first thing you need to do may sound obvious but is really very important -- you need more sleep and water.

"Puffy eyes can also, believe it or not, be hereditary but the good news is there is a quantum laser to remove the darkness -- it's €80 a treatment but worth it, if you feel you cannot get rid of them.

"Otherwise use a good night eye balm, patting not under the eyes but the upper cheek bones. Never apply moisturiser under the eye as the skin is too thin. Another tip is to sleep with two pillows to elevate the head so less fluid runs around the eye area."

Step 7: Hangover -- quick fix

Sue says: "Again, it's the eyes that show the signs of a late night out, the morning after. This is the ultimate puffiness quick fix.

"Leave a spoon in the fridge overnight and in the morning hold the back of spoon against your eyes for 20 seconds. It reduces fluid and makes the eyes wider. Then add Optrex drops to brighten the eyes and nobody would ever know."

- Anna Coogan