Ever since skincare was invented, the more exotic and hard-to-get ingredients – no matter how strange – have been said to be the best for moisturising your skin.

Some prized historical beauty practices may seem outrageous to us now, but there was a time when rubbing lead oxide, mercury, bird droppings and urine into your face was all the rage. Bull’s blood, juice from a water lily and the goo from a snail all promised to leave your skin looking youthful and radiant. Fortunately for us, we have moved on from those days and now we simply buy a pot of heavenly ready-made moisturising cream off the shelf.

When buying a moisturising cream, the first thing to decide is whether you want a day or a night moisturiser or both. Day creams are lighter, whereas night creams are more nourishing. Day creams include an SPF to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun and if you are outside a lot, then these will certainly be more beneficial. Day creams are also great makeup bases.

If you have particularly dry skin and do not spend much time outside, choose a night cream. The skin repairs itself at night and so anti-wrinkle products work more effectively while you are sleeping. Use your moisturiser twice daily for healthy-looking skin.

Choosing a moisturiser that’s best for your skin can be tricky as the market is flooded with a zillion different creams. In this column I want to guide you in the right direction and tell you about the moisturisers that I have tried and tested and think are truly fabulous.

BEST FOR YOUNG SKIN

The Body Shop oil-control seaweed mattifying cream is perfect for teenagers or girls in their early 20s who want to keep oily skin under control. You only need to apply a small amount to your face and your skin will look matt and shine-free. Also, it’s not tested on animals and brilliant value at €15.50.

BEST FOR 30+

Doctor Organic snail gel is an innovation in skincare using the remarkable cosmetic benefits of helix aspersia, a truly unique substance that the snail produces, combined with aloe vera, collagen, vitamins and minerals. A wonderful, soothing and healing gel that leaves your skin feeling rejuvenated and smelling lemony fresh, it’s available exclusively at Holland and Barrett (RRP €24.19).

BEST FOR MATURE SKIN

Liz Earle SuperSkin Moisturiser is a new cream made up only of the finest, most natural ingredients – including collagen-protecting pomegranate flower extracts – to visibly plump and smooth mature skin. The 40+ age group will really benefit from this tube of loveliness. Stockists include www.boots.ie (RRP €51.75).

BEST FOR DRY SKIN

For a really dry complexion, try Dermalogica Barrier Repair. This is an amazing ultra-calming cream that has vitamin C and E to combat free radicals. It not only moisturises, but restores your skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines. Perfect for teens and up (RRP €46.90).

BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

Simple replenishing rich moisturiser is a perfect product for even the most sensitive of skin. This cream instantly doubles the skin’s hydration, leaving your skin replenished and hydrated all day long. It is an ideal blend of the purest possible skin-loving ingredients with an added vitamin which leaves your skin glowing. Stockists include www.boots.ie (RRP €5.39).

BEST NATURAL PRODUCT

Organic rosehip oil, purchased in any health food shop, contains antioxidants and other natural age-fighting components which leave your skin feeling rejuvenated. Dab a few drops into the palm of your hand and warm the oil up before gently working it into your skin with circular motions. This oil also can be used to treat eczema, scars, burns and stretch marks and is great on the back of the hands and neck. Great value for money, popular brands include Trilogy organic rosehip oil (RRP €19.95).

BEST FOR REDUCING REDNESS

Clarins hydraquench moisturiser eliminates redness and softens the skin. This product does not block up your pores or leave any greasy residue on your skin and sits well under makeup. Women aged 20+ will really benefit from this wonderful moisturiser (RRP €45). Another good option is Boots No 7 calm skin redness relief balm, which strengthens easily irritated skin and calms rosy cheeks. Available from Boots stores and on boots.ie (€23.50).

BEST FOR A LIGHT TAN

He-Shi gradual tan cream leaves your face feeling really hydrated and soft and includes a subtle element of self-tan, which is lovely and natural. Works well if applied at night. A super easy product for women 20+ and available from www.he-shi.eu (RRP €20.93)

Ask Dolly

Dear Dolly,

What do you know about facial hair? I’m always shaving annoying hairs from my chin and upper lip. It’s driving me mad as I have to shave nearly every day. I don’t know whether to go to the salon or continue shaving. Can you help?

Martha

Dear Martha,

I would recommend laser hair removal. With this treatment, the hair will go for good. It’s costly but so worth the investment in the long-term. Waxing can also be effective and so is hair removal cream, but neither are permanent solutions. Try not to shave because shaving makes the hair grow back thicker and stronger.

Love Dolly.

Do you have a question for Dolly? If so, email dollybuckley1@gmail.com

TOP TIP

If your skin gets shiny during the day, a handy little pack of oil-absorbing sheets by Clean and Clear soak up excess oil, but do not take off your makeup – just lightly dab with the sheet over the face to take away the shine. Stockists include

www.boots.ie (RRP €4.99).