Expert beauty Q&A - Ruby Hammer

We talk to make-up artist Ruby Hammer about skin care, make-up and her favourite products

Ruby Hammer has been a resident make-up artist on Channel 4's 10 Years Younger, is the co-founder of cosmetics brands Ruby & Millie and was recently awarded an MBE for her long standing contribution to the cosmetics industry.Want to know about your skin? Ruby's your lady.

We caught up with Ruby to talk skin care, make-up and problem skin.

Your skin is amazing - what do you use daily that keeps it looking so fab?

It's not just the product I use - I change them all the time - but I religiously cleanse, hydrate and protect it, and add extras when needed. For example I might need a spot cream or a serum sometimes.

What body moisturiser do you use?

I swear by Jergens Naturals Ultra Hydrating moisturiser, as it is great for dry skin, and also Aromatherapy Associates Rose Body Cream - I use it as a perfume.

We still find that well into our thirties we suffer with problem skin which is prone to break-outs, what tips or products can help?

You have to get to the root cause. For example, is it because you're stressed? Do you not cleanse properly? Are you using something that's too rich? You have to examine your lifestyle and see where the problem is before looking at products. For example, older people can suffer from stress related acne, so they will have to adjust their lifestyle as well as using a suitable soothing product.

What's your view on organic skin care, is it just as good as the products that are technology driven?

They're from two different spheres so it's hard to compare them. You can't underestimate the power of science, and you can't underestimate organic products. Organic products are particularly good for certain skin types or pregnant women, who can't use certain ingredients in their products.


Do you have any tips for a good foundation application that will leave us with that much sought-after dewy complexion?

Firstly, pick a colour that's suitable for you, as this will affect the way it blends with your skin. Only use it where you need it and not all over like a mask. Use a sponge or foundation brush to blend the foundation very, very well, and then mist over with something like Evian water to avoid looking too matte. It's always better to use less and build it up than to overload the skin.

Blusher is often the bane of our lives - it's either being too pink, orange or sparkly. What blushers are best for fair and darker skin?

Don't buy blushers that contain too much of something that doesn't suit your skin. A hint of tawny is good for lots of women as it is softer. Also, use a good blusher brush. In terms of tone, fair skin doesn't want anything too heavy and dark, and for dark skin you do need something vibrant and rich to avoid looking ashen. My favourite blushers are Ruby & Millie and Bobbi Brown.

How do you remove under eye dark circles?

Firstly, make sure you have been getting enough sleep and that you're drinking enough water. To cover dark circles, use a yellow based concealer and a good eye cream.

We are always trying to perfect our liquid eye liner technique - what's your perfect application technique?

Use a pencil to do the initial work, and then go over with a liquid liner - use it as a stencil.

When you travel, what's your in-flight saviour?

I have a mini travel kit, spray my face with rose water, re-apply my moisturiser often and keep my lips hydrated with lip balm.

Finally what's your ultimate beauty handbag must-have?

The small size of the Jergens Naturals Ultra Hydrating body moisturiser.

Get more information on the Jergens Naturals range and discover their new spinning machine game to win some great products here

Get more skin care advice and products here