We managed to steal some time from the busy schedule of former Miss South Africa, TV presenter and model, Cindy Nell, to find out what she keeps in her make-up bag.

What's keeping you busy right now?

My company Cosmetix mostly, which I really enjoy. We are branching out into even more countries internationally and it's a very exciting time for the business. And any other time I have I love to spend with my husband and son, but my life is not that simple, I'm afraid. Here I sit at midnight answering these questions and have two other interviews to complete this week ;-) I always say I have a double life, the businesswoman and the celebrity. I am the face and legs of Veet, and quite a few other brands. I perform as master of ceremonies for many events. I have my two modeling agencies, Select Models in Johannesburg and Full Circle in Cape Town, which keep me busy; and after a two-year break from the telly, I am starting some television presenting again soon.

But I'm a master of time management and surround myself with good people, great employees, and household staff to make it all possible.

What's the one cosmetic item you simply couldn't live without?

Skin Science Day Cream, I have seen a significant difference in my skin since I have been using it. I cannot imagine a day without applying it.

If we were to turf out your make-up bag, what would we find in there?

Tons of Catrice and Essence products, like Catrice's Foundation – applied with a MAC foundation brush – Essence Translucent Powder, Catrice The Giant Mascara, Catrice Ultimate Shine in shade 050, Essence Sun Club bronzer, Essence Soufflé Touch Blush, Catrice Smokey Eyes Set, Essence I Love Stage Eye Shadow Base, Catrice Kohl Kajal Eyeliner in black, Essence Lip Liner in Very Berry, the Essence Studio Nails Better Than Gel Nails top coat, Catrice Lip Appeal Lip Gloss in shade 150 Candyfornication, Catrice Blush Brush, Catrice Eye Shadow Brush, and the Catrice Gel Eye Liner Brush.

With regards to skincare, what are your favourite products?

Skin Science by far. When I was younger and had acne problems, I loved Nimue, and it helped a lot. I then I used Dermalogica and it was good for my skin then, but now at 30, my primary concern is keeping the wrinkles at bay, and keeping my skin hydrated too. Skin Science is the best for me. I actually sat down with the chemist during the year of development of Skin Science and made sure the range had the highest amount of actives, maintains all the characteristics of a professional range, but the price is made affordable for everyone by removing external elements like expensive marketing, packaging, etc.

And how do you take care of your body?

I use Veet Wax Strips, and Veet Hair Removal Mousse for under my arms, I try to exfoliate with Caribbean Tan Body Exfoliator once a week, and apply the Caribbean Tan Milk and Honey Body Butter once a week. Even in winter, I apply my self-tan once every two weeks, my favourite product is the Caribbean Tan Mousse. I always like to be brown – it makes me feel confident. As far as exercise goes, I do pilates twice a week and run three times a week. I go for a facial once a month, and like a massage every now and then.

What products do you use on your hair?

My hair is already long, but I like to have Great Lengths extensions put in every now and then, for volume and that Hollywood look, especially for special occasions. When it comes to shampoo and conditioner, I'm not that loyal, but I'm currently using Gliss from Schwarzkopf, I also like TRESemme, Head and Shoulders, Sexy Hair products from Carlton, and my favourite hair product is Hannon's hair spray.

Which perfumes do you wear?

Michael Kors – I'm in love with this fragrance. For a change every now and then, I use Dior Addict.

What nail polish colours are you rocking at the moment?

Coral and Navy blue. Can't get enough of those two.

Who's in your little black book of beauty?

Tattiana in Parktown for facials, Daleen from Hair2Day Hair Salon, at the corner of North and Rivonia, Tony from Yazoo in Kloof Nek Road, Cape Town – no one does colour better – and The Camps Bay Beauty Salon in Camps Bay Centre for massages. I do my own nails with Essence Studio Nails Better Than Gel Nails, no light required.

What's the best beauty advise you've ever received or have to give?

The simple things, such as to stay out of the sun, always take your make-up off before bed time, brush your teeth before bed, drink lots of water, and make sure your day cream has a SPF in it. Also, eyebrows are the frame for your face – make sure they are beautiful.