For make-up to look as good as it should, it's crucial to have a good starting point.

It's not possible every day but spending a bit more time prepping the skin before foundation makes a huge difference. If it's a special occasion, I'll always start with a moisturising cleanser and preferably one, used with hot cloth.

Isle of Lewis spa brand ishga has launced a new Marine Cleansing Balm formulated with cleansing, nourishing and hydrating oils plus their trademark Hebridean seaweed extract which promises to remove make-up and impurities while nurturing and protecting the skin.  

I'm already a huge fan of the brand. The products not only smell incredible but they are also vegan friendly and use a higher proportion of organic ingredients.

The cleansing balm is power-packed with shea butter, carnauba wax, rapeseed, almond and castor oil and infused with a lovely blend of essential oils including bergamot, rose geranium and patchouli. 

I've used other brands of this type of cleanser but this is my new favourite. While I might not use it every day to remove make-up, it's now a twice-weekly treat, leaving my dry skin feeling softer and more hydrated than moisturiser.

ishga Marine Cleansing Balm is priced £38 and available from www.ishga.com