Bumping into Laila Rouass recently - former star of Hollyoaks, Footballers Wives and now Primeval - she said she'd gone straight out and spent a fortune on Christian Dior after I'd recommended one of the brand's foundations to her in an interview a few days previously. So, of course, I recommended a few more little miracle workers to the actress - products that stand head-and-shoulders above everything else I've tested. Ever.

And for anyone else keen to save money experimenting, these are the top ten little beauties that really work (I've just passed a few of them on to Lisa Snowdon, too, so if she suddenly starts looking even more amazing than usual, you know who to credit!

Christian Dior Capture Totale Foundation. Perfect coverage that smoothes an uneven complexion. Best of all, people asked me if I'd had Botox when I first started using it. Very expensive (more than £50) but very worth it if you can afford it: wait 'til you're in Duty Free.

Christian Dior SkinFlash. It's called a Radiance Booster Pen, but I use it as an ordinary concealer. It's liquid that's dispensed through a soft brush so is great for soft, smooth coverage that doesn't crinkle into lines.

Olay Regenerist 30 Second Wrinkle Filler. A miracle worker. Instantly smoothes lines.

Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara. Does everything it promises (although you need to keep on layering - while wet so it doesn't clump). Lush.

Barbara Daly make-up for Tesco here to stay colour & gloss. Choose a neutral colour, apply and leave to dry then put your normal lipstick or gloss on top. Not only will they 'stick' better, but when they do smudge off, you're still left with colour beneath that lasts half the day.

Bourjois So Laque! With Vinyl nail polish. Great choice of on-trend colours, high-shine finish and it lasts for days and days - I've had it on my toenails for weeks without so much as a chip.

Ruby & Millie Eye Liner. So soft, you can smudge it and use it as eyeshadow.

L'Oreal Paris Glam Shine and Barbara Daly make-up for Tesco lipstick both tie for wearable colours with iridescence (not in all of the Barbara Daly colours) that makes lips look more luscious without the need for lipgloss.

Bourjois Illuminating Touch. A pot of peach highlighter that gives an imperceptible glo. Apply to cheeks for the perfect finishing touch.