How To Be Beautiful: Full coverage foundation

Spring is traditionally a time when we're exhorted to freshen up our maquillage with brighter shades and lighter formulations – but sometimes namby-pamby tinted moisturisers and BB (Blemish Balm) creams just won't cut it for creating a flawless complexion. Age spots and pigmentation, for example, need a little more help.

While "maximum coverage" always sounds reminiscent of claggy old-style panstick foundation, the best versions are intended for just the opposite effect. A thin layer of a highly pigmented formula, in combination with primer and concealer, will look far less artificial than piling on quantities of sheerer products.

Of course, once summer truly kicks in or you head off for balmier climes, full coverage may look and feel a little de trop on the beach, for example. There are two solutions for this: just use a BB (with SPF, naturally) and to hell with worrying about age spots when you're on the beach. Or – my preferred solution also for bikini diets – just don't go to the beach at all.

Autograph Ultimate Wear Long-lasting foundation

Medium coverage in a long-wear formula £12, marksandspencer.com

Lancôme Teint Visionnaire

As near as you'll get to perfectly even skin £36, lancome.co.uk

Aerin Fresh Skin Compact Make-up

Good for maximum coverage on the go

£37, johnlewis.com