Linda Teo, 57

The managing director of Carrie Models International has helped many models rise to stardom, including Nora Ariffin, Ethel Fong and Sheila Sim.

Ms Teo also heads Carrie Academy International, which conducts etiquette and grooming classes for staff from banks, hospitals and retail centres.

Last month, she launched Carrie Elegance, a new arm of her modelling agency for women aged 30 and above.

What is the one product you would not step out of the house without? Foundation and sunblock. I love buying beauty products so I have a few of each type. My current favourite foundation is the Bourjois 123 Perfect Foundation ($34, from Watsons stores). It provides good hydrating coverage for pigmentation and is long-wearing. I use Bioderma's Ultra Fluid Suncare ($38.95, from Guardian stores) because it is easily absorbed and not sticky. It helps to prevent skin pigmentation from sun damage.

What is one grooming service you cannot do without?

A haircut and dyeing session at Vive Salon (05-06 Paragon; www.vivesalon.com.sg) once every two months. I've been going to my hairstylist, Ronald, for more than a decade. He knows how to work with my hair, is gentle, caring and calm.

Where do you go for your other beauty treatments?

I get laser treatments done by Dr Sydney Tan at the Dr Goh Seng Heng Clinic (15-10 Paragon Medical Tower Lobby 2, www.drgohsengheng.com). I go there once a month to clear up my dark spots; it's like going for a hi-tech facial.

What is your favourite perfume? I have a weakness for fragrances. I spend about $5,000 on perfumes and scented moisturisers a year. I own about 25 bottles from brands such as Chanel and Annick Goutal. I like them for their elegant scents. My favourite brand at the moment is Penhaligon's, which I discovered while shopping in Ion Orchard last year. I love the Quercus Cologne ($210 for 100ml) for its calming citrus, floral and green notes. I was so happy when my husband bought me a beautiful gift set from Penhaligon's for Christmas. Also, my brother recently returned from Israel with the most wonderful pure rose and jasmine perfume oils. They can be mixed with body cream or used on their own. They are easily absorbed by the skin while giving it a nice sheen and the scent lasts the whole day.

Which to you is the best beauty invention?

Make-up. There are so many options and textures for women these days, so how can a woman step out of the house without at least some foundation to conceal her imperfections? Because once you are out in public, people are looking at you and judging you.

What is the most ridiculous thing you have ever done in the name of beauty?

I can't remember doing anything ridiculous, but I remember my worst experience. A few years ago, I visited a beauty salon to remove some warts on my neck. I paid more than S$2,000 but not only did the warts remain after the treatment, my skin was also scarred. I was so upset.

What is the best beauty tip anyone has given you?

This advice from Dr Sydney Tan: Exercise, eat less fried foods and drink more water.

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