Interior design expert Reena Simon is founder of The Intentional Home, and creative director and co-author of Scandi Modern. Here are the beauty products she always returns to ...
Key beauty staples/old favourites I’m never without …
“I’m a creature of habit, whether it’s my home or my dressing table, and I enjoy rituals that feel considered rather than random. Some things, like Eve Lom’s cleanser [from €55], I’ve used for nearly 20 years and can’t imagine starting my day without. La Roche-Posay’s SPF [from €15.60] is also a daily non-negotiable. Trinny London’s Lip Reset Kit [€58] is a newer addition and I know already will become a firm favourite. I also use Bobbi Brown’s Long-Wear Cream Shadow Sticks [€33.93] when I want to look polished in minutes. Victoria Beckham Beauty’s Satin Kajal Liners [€39] are also permanents in my make–up bag. L’Occitane’s Almond Shower Oil [from €30 at cloud10beauty.com] is a ritual I don’t skip, Verden’s body scrub [€50] lives in my bathroom and Aesop’s handwash [€37] is as much a design choice as it is a habit.”
Best beauty investments – what I spend a bit more on …
“Augustinus Bader’s Eye Cream [€165 at dublinandcorkdutyfree.ie] is one of the few eye products that has helped my dark circles and I’ve genuinely felt was worth the investment. Anything by Medik8: I adore the Exo-PDRN Prismatic+ serum [€91] – it really has improved my fine lines and skin texture. La Mer’s The Body Crème [€246 at Duty Free] is also quickly becoming a favourite, and Dr. Sebagh Vitamin C powder [€99], from another iconic beauty brand. I’ve always been drawn to brands with longevity. To me, time is the ultimate validator. The brands that endure have earned their worth through consistency, quality and the ability to remain relevant across generations.” and the ability to remain relevant across generations.”
One foundation I swear by ….
“Giorgio Armani’s Luminous Silk Foundation [€48.40]. I’ve tried to replace it more times than I can count and always end up back where I started.”
My most recent purchase …
“Prada Beauty’s Cream-to-Powder Blush in Dahlia [€41.06]. I’ll admit the packaging is what first caught my eye, I have a weakness for good packaging. I think we underestimate how much beautifully designed objects elevate everyday rituals. Then I tried the colour and immediately understood the hype. It melts into the skin.”
My favourite places to shop for beauty …
“Liberty’s beauty hall whenever I’m in London. I love spaces that are thoughtfully edited without feeling overwhelming. Space NK is where I replenish favourites, and Beauty Pie is where I discover many of my everyday staples; I love that it’s built on not overpaying for good formulas.”
My favourite Irish beauty product …
“I don’t have one yet, but Sculpted by Aimee’s Cream Luxe Bronze [€22] has been on my list for a while. I love seeing founder-led brands become genuine international success stories.”
My all-time favourite beauty item …
“Chanel’s Les Beiges Healthy Glow Bronzing Cream in Soleil Tan – Bronze [€60]. I’ve used it since my twenties and I’ve tried countless alternatives along the way, but nothing else has ever stuck the way this has.”
I’m most excited to try …
“Whatever Rodial does next. I’ve just finished Maria Hatzistefanis’s book, How To Make Your First Million, and it’s made me even more excited to see where she takes the brand. I have huge respect for founder-led beauty businesses, and this is exactly the kind of trajectory I’d love for my own brand.”
My favourite treatment ...
“I recently experienced Sunday Riley’s skincare immersion at Hershesons in London, where I was introduced to the new Tidal Deep Hydration + Plumping Serum [€85]. It was one of those treatments that left my skin looking instantly fresher, and I also loved learning more about the ingredients and the thinking behind the formulas. I try to book a facial every four to six weeks with someone local. It’s one of the few times my phone is completely switched off, which is probably as beneficial as the treatment itself. And I was also a Biab addict, but recently converted to Bio-sculpture.”
My home fragrance …
“Scent is the invisible layer that finishes every room. It changes the atmosphere long before anyone notices the furniture. Loewe’s Oregano candle [€195] is the one guests ask about most, while Byredo’s Bibliothèque room spray [€81] lives permanently by the front door because first impressions matter. Diptyque’s Baies [€95] is one I return to time and again. I also adore Beauty Pie’s candles and love exploring their new scents each season. Diptyque’s Baies is one I return to time and again, and I adore Beauty Pie’s candles and love exploring their new scents each season.
The loveliest perfume bottle on my dressing table …
“Penhaligon’s Halfeti [from €127] It’s beautifully designed and somehow smells completely different on everyone. I’m constantly being asked what fragrance I’m wearing, and the bottle is every bit as elegant as the scent itself.”
My beauty ethos …
“Less is more. Less is more. I’m drawn to products that are as beautiful to live with as they are to use. Less, but better has always been my philosophy. Invest intentionally, choose well and surround yourself with things you’ll still love years from now.”
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