Tricks and treats for summer spruce-up

The Inkroom is an inner sanctum at Fashion Week. Sponsored by the Herald, it's where a privileged few can have their hair, nails and makeup done and receive some attention to their skin. For the rest of us, here are some tips on looking great this summer by those administering the treats.

Napolean Perdis cosmetics summer makeup tips

* To add warmth to the face, mix your foundation or primer with a cream or liquid bronzer

* If you have dehydrated skin, avoid over-powdering the face as it will only accentuate fine lines and patchiness. Napoleon Perdis Dream Cream, $110, helps to de-stress skin, retain moisture; and light diffusers put skin in a better light.

* Use lip lacquers rather than matte lipsticks to keep lips hydrated and luscious through summer.

* Give cheeks a natural rosy flush by using a liquid cheek stain rather than a drying powder blush. This will add hydration and has a long-lasting effect.

* Try brown mascara for a defined, softer look that is dark enough for night and natural enough for day.

Opi's Manicure hints

* Ensure nails are perfectly shaped. They don't have to be long to look great.

* Exfoliate to get rid of dry, scaly skin.

* Nourish the hands and cuticles. Once you've exfoliated it's essential to replace moisture. Avoplex Lotion and Oil does a great job.

* Get a professional pedicure. Vital for summer sandals.

* Use bright nail polish and change your colour regularly. OPI's latest seasonal collections include the Brights and Japanese collections.

Guinot's great skin guide

* Drink at least two litres of water a day and protect the moisture levels of your skin by using a product such as Guinot's Hydrazone facial moisturiser.

* Maintain your tan this summer. Exfoliate once or twice a week to stop your natural tan or self-tan going patchy.

* Don't be tempted to use a self-tanner for the body on the face. Instead, choose one designed for the face.

* Protect skin from the sun. Sun damage to your face, neck and decollete can happen even when it's cloudy. Use a sunscreen every day to help to prevent premature ageing.

* Get your legs ready to bare. Waxing's great but it can cause ingrown hairs. Using a loofah helps, as does Guinot's After Hair Removal Gel, which slows hair growth as well.

Servilles Ponsonby's great hair guide

* Hair this summer is soft and sexy and should move with you. It's not over-done or starched-looking. Don't wash your hair too much if you've been in the sea. Let your hair dry naturally or scrunch in a bit of leave-in conditioner.

* Clips are a fun accessory. Try vintage shops for old clips and slides like your gran used to wear, or raid your mother's jewellery box. Hairbands are also back.

* Curling tongs, irons, heated rollers and Velcro rollers are a must for every bathroom, as they are an easy way to create a soft wave big curl or volume. And use mousse, volumising sprays and soft hairspray for hold longevity.

* Get a blow-dry or curling-tong look at the salon. It's also a good way to get a lesson in how to style and is a great way to start the week or weekend.

* Try putting your hair up in a soft bun with a slide or chop stick. A low pony tail is stylish with some backcombing on the crown.

* To add warmth to the face, mix your foundation or primer with a cream or liquid bronzer.