As part of an ongoing series, we’re meeting women from all walks of life who prove how beauty shines from within
Makeup Liane Wanjiru, Beauty Coach at Clarins Boutique & Spa | Hair Zoë Rankin of The Sober Colourist | Photography Claire Nash
Dymphna O’Dea from Tipperary retired last year and her daughter, Orla, nominated her for this experience. Orla said: “Mam always puts everyone else first instead of herself. She had a very hard year last year with her health so it would be lovely for her.”
The day itself was wonderful as Dymphna had her makeup expertly applied by Leanne from Clarins, followed by the photoshoot. The whole team agreed Dymphna was glowing from within throughout. Afterwards, we asked her about her self-care rituals.
What was the first beauty item you ever bought?
Nail varnish, when I first started working. I wore it for many years and then stopped doing so for no particular reason. However, before Christmas 2024 our lovely daughter Orla treated me to BIAB nails and my love of coloured nails was reignited.
Did you ever receive self-care advice when you were growing up?
My mother, despite having five children, was always so particular about our skin and hair care. She was possibly before her time as she was fastidious about protecting our skin from the sun. As the only girl, she encouraged me to use eye cream from my late teens onwards. In later years it was my mother who suggested that I should get my eyelashes tinted (something that I would never have thought of). Also, when I was in sixth year the nuns brought in an air hostess from Aer Lingus to teach us about makeup. Each girl got a palette with foundation and eyeshadow on it and was instructed on how to apply it. The end result was emerging nicely until my friend and I decided that we should not waste any of the precious cosmetics.
We applied all that was on the palette! Our eyes could hardly open under the weight of the eyeshadow. On that day we learned the valuable lesson that less is more.
What part of your regime is non negotiable for you?
I have a daily cleanse and moisturise routine and my moisturiser contains an SPF. I get my eyelashes tinted regularly. Lip gloss is something I love to wear; I would feel bare without it. As my skin is sensitive, I’m very careful not to use creams or lotions that irritate it.
Tell us about a time you felt your most beautiful.
My Debs Ball stands out as one of those occasions. It was my first time wearing a maxi dress, which belonged to my mother. It was a beautiful sleeveless dress with a soft black bodice and it flowed into a dainty, slightly floral skirt. She then allowed me to apply some of her Coty L’Aimant creamy skin perfume to complete my ensemble. It was magical.
How do you prioritise self-care in your everyday life?
I am particular about what we eat and try to avoid processed foods. Staying hydrated is also on my list of priorities. Exercise is part of my daily routine and I try to do it most days of the week. I like to fit in Pilates and meditation during the week. Reading has always been part of my life. It is a great source of relaxation for me.
Get The Look: The Hero Products Used on Dymphna
Double Serum 50ml €105
Lip Comfort Oil in Cherry €27
