Basia, 21
I have combination skin which is always shiny and oily. I have tried shine-control moisturisers and various face powders, but nothing seems to work. Can you suggest anything to help?
Sarah says: The key thing is to resist the temptation to strip away the oil, since this will only encourage the skin to produce more of the stuff. What’s best is a simple regime of cleansing and moisturising, with a good product to control breakouts. Origins Mint Wash Cleanser (£15; origins.co.uk), used daily in conjunction with Matte Scientist moisturiser (£19), would form a good basic regime. Matte Scientist is a great product, containing phlorogine to counteract shine, sage to purify and jewelweed nectar to soothe irritation, all the while making sure your skin doesn’t dry out. For breakouts, keep Origins Blemish Buster (£10) to hand, which contains salicylic acid to reduce redness and speed repair. As to foundations, in truth it’s hard to find a product that will last all day on oily skin. Your best strategy is to go for a light coverage, re-applied when necessary. Mineral make-up is very suited to oily complexions, since it has a drying effect on the skin. Powder or liquid, it’s up to you. Clinique’s Stay-True Makeup (£19.50; clinique.co.uk) is excellent, while L’Or?al True Match Minerals Foundation (£13.69; boots.com) is preservative and perfume-free.