Last week was a whirlwind of beauty launches - these are the 3 products I loved & the one thing that I've ditched from my make-up bag

Updated: 07:21 EDT, 14 September 2026 New pencil case season is in full flow - and I couldn't be more delighted. There are beauty launches left right and center at the moment, and last week was a whirlwind of glam.First up, Trinny's Fearless Skin Tint Drops. I was lucky enough to try two different shades, because, as Trinny pointed out, those of us who've been in the sun over the summer need one for now and one for later. Right now, my best shade is 'jem 4NP'. Easy to apply: use the pipette to put a few drops on your hand then dab onto your face and blend - fingers are fine, but I find I get a better finish with a brush. It feels weightless, covers redness and blotches (I had a spot threatening to brew, which this easily disguised) and gave a very natural my-skin-but-better finish. Win.I wore it as my base the next morning to go to the launch of Ilia's new 'Thruliner'. Ilia is another brand with a midlife female founder, and, as with Trinny, Sasha Plavsic knows what we need.For me, at 50, that's an eyeliner that works on the waterline as, at this stage, I'm pushing product up, not drawing it down. There are a vast range of shades, which, happily for me, includes lots of lighter colours.I've backed away from the black as I've aged as I find softer shades more flattering. I love Portrait, a rich golden brown which went on like a dream and added gentle definition to my hazel eyes.Then, it was Suqquu, a Japanese brand that regular readers will know I like. Their Water Tuning Gel does wonders for my skin, and their eyelash curler is the only one I know that actually works on my hooded eyes. I'm reluctant to try eyeshadow because I've never quite got the right technique, but I loved the new autumn palette. There was a pinkish shimmery shade from their Signature Color Eyes Palette Winter collection in 157 in Irohibiki was so easy to use - a little dab in the corner of my eyes and under the tail of my brow really helped open them up - I loved it.By the end of the week I was definitely ready to try Aromatherapy Associates new Desert Therapy bath and shower oil.You put a few drops in your hands, rub together, inhale the deep, oud-y deliciousness, and then apply to your skin as you would do with any body wash, it emulsifies really quickly and feels incredibly luxurious. And...relax.