With winter in full swing and fresh-faced chic being a serious beauty trend, we thought what better time to try out radiance boosters. Bernadette Fallon of Sligo in Ireland, the 37-year-old editor of handbag.com's sister site All About You, was happy to help. She describes her beauty regime as 'very quick and basic - light foundation most days and generally make-up free at weekends. As I get older I'm keen to try out various skin-brightening products and illuminators, including foundations.' So Bernadette was the obvious choice to put our radiance-boosters through their paces…
Chanel Precision Instant D'eclat Radiance Flash Fluid
£34.50
'I use Chanel lipstick and love it, so I have great expectations of the Chanel brand - this product was a little disappointing. Accessing the actual fluid was like breaking into Fort Knox, with the outer box, the sachet then the tube containing the fluid. Also, the tube contains just a bit too much fluid for a single use so I end up wasting quite a bit! The light creamy fluid rubs in easily and smells lovely and fresh, but my skin felt quite dry and tight afterwards – particularly close to the eye area, and there wasn't much of a "glow" to speak of.'
Available nationwide
Clarins Beauty Flash Balm
£22.50
'The king of radiance products – it can be used as a face mask for a nourishing treatment designed to eliminate fine lines, or under foundation to provide a smooth surface for application, gently tighten the skin and provide a radiant glow. This lightweight, pleasantly scented balm is simple to apply with large sweeping strokes and easily absorbed without greasiness. I loved it – for its versatility and results; my skin felt firm though still well moisturised, with a visible radiant glow.'
Available nationwide
Dior Skinflash Backstage Makeup
£18
'Packaged in a very elegant silver applicator pen, light and portable, this item will add a touch of class to any make-up bag! It can take a bit of getting used to, particularly on first use as the pen has to be repeatedly clicked to stimulate the make-up flow. It also needs to be carefully judged so you don't "click out" too much product for your needs - there is a definite knack! While the product looked very stylish, the make-up itself looked a bit heavy on my skin when used over foundation. It's designed to smooth away imperfections and create light on the face, but it had a very drying effect on my skin and I didn't feel that my face looked particularly radiant. Not suited to my skin type, but do give it a try!'
Stockists: 01932 233909
Laura Mercier Secret Finish
£22
'I'm a big Laura Mercier fan, and this product doesn't disappoint! A pleasant fragrance and deliciously light texture with simple classic packaging; the neat tube is perfectly designed to fit easily into a make-up bag or handbag pocket - very portable - with no chance of leaking. It absorbs easily to leave skin looking dewy and fresh when used over foundation. A small touch instantly illuminated the complexion while a generous amount gave skin a very moist, though still natural, glow. Perfect to carry with you for fresh-faced beauty on the go. I loved it!'
Stockists: www.lauramercier.com
Pout Love Glow Illuminator
£22
'This is a very pretty product, but there was little information contained on the packaging as to how to use: judging by the rich texture it appeared to be more suited for use under, rather than over, foundation. A gorgeous bottle with intricate lace patterning - beautiful accessory for a dressing table. Very easy to apply; the rich cream absorbs easily and it felt pleasant on my skin. This product provided a moderately radiant glow, but I would probably rate it more for its lovely packaging than its remarkable results.'
Stockists: www.pout.co.uk
