Tara Casserly, owner and facialist at Base Skin, Galway, shares her beauty favourites, skincare essentials and insider knowledge …
Key beauty staples/old favourites I’m never without …
“Skin is my thing, so I adore and invest in my skincare routine. I use a combination of the iconic Biologique Recherche and my trusty DMK, a brand I’ve worked with for over 17 years. My all-time favourites are DMK Beta Gel, which I’m never without – it works on everything from breakouts to burns and dermatitis – and Biologique Recherche’s Creme Masque Vernix. I mask at least five nights a week and there’s nothing quite like Vernix and a drop of VIP 02 for the ultimate glow and to save you from that winter skin.”
Best beauty investments – what I spend a bit more on that’s worth it …
“Biologique Recherche Collagène Original Serum [€155]. I read the white papers and knew the research that went into this product but still wasn’t a convert until I had gone through two bottles. I describe this product as an investment policy: it’s working away in the background protecting you for the future. It really is an incredible formulation that works!”
Most recent purchase …
“Cloon Keen Énbarr eau de parfum [€170]. A lady walked into Base Skin in June and the smell took over my senses so much so I emailed her asking her what her fragrance was. Her reply was – it’s the same brand as the candle you were burning, Cloon Keen. I went to the Galway store the same day and purchased it. There are notes of geranium, saffron, plum and patchouli, with leather, woods and incense. I also picked up another tube of my trusty Kevyn Aucoin Volume Mascara [€31] – this mascara is the best on the market and I love the fact there’s no rubbing or pulling at your eyes to remove it, and that it comes off with warm water and NO panda eyes.”
Favourite places to shop for beauty …
“I purchase from Space NK, Brown Thomas and also Cult Beauty. I love pottering in beauty shops when I’m away. When I lived in Australia, Mecca Cosmetics took half my salary and it’s where I have discovered some beautiful fragrances.”
Favourite Irish beauty item …
“I am currently using Reform SPF30+ by Dr Naomi Mackle. I love to use Irish products and support local businesses, and so far I’m loving this. Also, Cloon Keen is on my doorstep, and to have a brand like this locally is special.”
I’m coveting …
“Aesop hand and body products [available at www.dopl.ie]. Another Australian bow, but the Aussies do know how to self-care! The handwashes are so uplifting, and I always apply the hand balm before bed each night.”
The loveliest perfume bottle on my dressing table …
“I can’t pick just one as they are all so beautiful, and I take my fragrance as seriously as my skincare. I love a masculine woody oud scent so Enbarr is just that, but my favourite to date is an oil I picked up from a small store in Abu Dhabi.”
One foundation I swear by …
“Jane Iredale Pure Pressed Powder in Warm Silk [€46 refill, €19 compact; www.skin1pharmacy.ie]. I have used this foundation for nearly 20 years, it’s the original mineral make-up and in my opinion the best.”
My beauty ethos …
“Protect your skin as early as possible and treat it with respect. It costs a lot more to reverse the damage!”
Base Skin, Augustine House, Merchants Road, Galway; www.baseskin.ie.
