Article: Gretha van Tubbergh from Ideas
Image: Getty/Gallo Images

Take charge of your appearance
Put yourself in an expert's hands. A new hairstyle or makeover session (even a mini makeover at a cosmetic counter) could give your self-image a boost. Try the Bobbi Brown counters at Edgars stores. Knowing exactly what to look for and suits you best could also save you time when shopping or applying make-up.

Ask yourself, could a professional help me to save time? If I had my hair done professionally, could I maintain the style for a couple of days?

Keep your choices simple. Use similar make-up for every occasion. That will prevent you from wasting time on experimenting and mistakes. Experiment over weekends when you have time to remove make-up and start all over again.

Make the most of your beauty routine. A lovely shower or bath gel with soothing qualities can turn essential bath time into "me" time.

Organise your beauty time
Keep the few items of make-up, hair products and styling aids that you can use every day in the same place. Keep make-up and products that you don't use every day separately.

Keep your lipsticks and lip liners, eyeliners and eyeshadows, and blushers together.

Have your hair done at the same time as a manicure or pedicure at a salon that offers all these services.

Every time you go to the hairdresser, make your next appointment before you leave so that you don't need to phone at the last minute when you realise it's time for another cut or tint.

Monday to Friday
Simplify your make-up for work. The idea is to look polished and well-groomed, but not obviously made-up. Concentrate on defining your features rather than wearing the latest fashion colours. Invest in a combination powder and foundation that takes just a couple of minutes to apply.

Making eye contact in the workplace is important. Emphasise your eyes rather than your lips. For lip colour that stays on longer, use a lip pencil in a natural shade and apply a cream lipstick or lip gloss over it.

A pleasant fragrance or favourite perfume can reduce your stress levels – not only through the physiological response (aromatherapy) but also through pleasant associations.

Which scents are best? Memories and connotations are personal, but certain fragrances are universally regarded as pleasant. These include lavender and vanilla (such as The Body Shop Eau de Toilette in vanilla), cinnamon, citrus and soft floral fragrances (such as lily of the valley).

Do you have any tips on how to make the most out of your beauty time? Let us know in the comment box below