Now that the summer is (finally) here, it's time to update your make-up. This has got to be the most challenging time of year when it comes to make-up . . .should the foundation be dumped? How can SFS (Shiny Face Syndrome) be avoided and what on earth should go on the eyes?

Never fear, Beauty School is here to help.

This year it's all about looking bronzed and matte, with sultry colour-splashed eyes, flushed cheeks and glossed lips. Here's how to create the look.

Face

Saying goodbye to the faithful foundation is often impossible for many people who aren't quite ready to go nude just yet. And with the weather (hopefully) continuing to heat up, a shiny face must be avoided at all costs.

My solution is a tinted bronzing gel such as Chanel Soleil Lame ( 30), which is available in two shades, or its cheaper counterpart Boots 17 Facial Bronzer ( 7.25), which has the added benefit of SPF12.

These can be used on their own or over a thin layer of foundation. They give some coverage and a gentle sun-kissed look . . . and help matte the skin. If your skin is particularly prone to shininess, be sure to invest in an oil-free matte moisturiser such as Clinique's new City Block Sheer SPF25 ( 20.50).

With the base complete, add some shape to your face with a good bronzer. My favourite is Pout Bronzer Duo ( 28). This two-toned compact brightens even the dullest of complexions without being too shimmery.

A common misconception made around this time of year is that blusher is unnecessary because bronzer takes its place. It doesn't . . . the apples of the cheeks should be preserved for a natural pink or peach blusher or, to give a dab of shine to cheeks, a highlighter such as Clinique Up-Lighting Liquid Illuminator ( 26). Apply to apples of cheek and cheekbones for a youthful glow.

Eyes

If your skin is looking sun-kissed, nothing emphasises it better than some sultry brown and gold shadows. My current favourite is Stila's eye shadow trio in Mazatlan ( 29, on counter from next month). This trio of white golden shimmer, brown bronze shimmer and brown with gold and silver shimmer is just the product for getting the look.

These colours can be played around with in a variety of ways but one of the most effective techniques is to apply a light gold all over the eye-lid, before applying the darker browns to the socket of the eye. This keeps the eye looking big while achieving a dusky look. Just be sure to blend carefully and finish off with lashings of eyeliner and mascara.

Lips

As mentioned earlier, lips dripping with shine are all in this summer and strong colour isn't playing quite so big a part.

Some of my favourites include Chanel's brand new Brilliant Lumiere Florescent in Mango ( 22).

This gloss is electrifying in appearance but is in fact a subtle peach shine. Stila Lip Glaze in Daiquiri ( 23) is a gorgeous golden pink gloss with gold and silver shimmers. And on the high street I'm loving new Nivea Lip Care Gloss and Shine ( 9.95). Available in three shades, this little gloss moisturises while giving brilliant shine. Perfect.

NEW PRODUCT OF THE WEEK
FRUIT OF THE EARTH VIT E DAILY SCRUB
ONE of the winners of the recent Imagemagazine beauty awards, this gorgeous aloe vera-based scrub contains pure vitamin E oil and finely ground almond particles to exfoliate, moisturise and heal the face. Proving that superior exfoliation doesn't have to be an expensive business, this scrub is gentle enough for daily use and comes in a generouslysized tub. Available from Clery's and selected pharmacies nationwide, 9.95.

AFTER SUN
KERASTASE SOLEIL UV DEFENSE SHAMPOO
KERASTASE has got to be one of the best haircare brands out at the moment, which means we're delighted to hear they have introduced a range to protect hair from the damaging effects of sun, sand and sea. Their Apres Soleil shampoo is developed to protect hair from sun exposure and 1 of every bottle bought goes towards the Terrence Higgins Trust for Aids prevention.

TREND SETTERS
SURREAL SKIN MINERAL MAKE-UP
THIS new powder make-up from Urban Decay is perfect for the summer, leaving skin looking natural, weightless and not remotely made-up. Its semi-matte finish leaves skin fresh and its gorgeous purple holder is a lovely addition to your handbag.

Available in Debenhams, 25.