As a lover of all things celebrity, I know I’ve often wondered “how do they look so flawless?” Sure, it’s easy to credit good genetics, a macrobiotic chef, round the clock trainer … but after checking out this website, I realise the celeb’s best friend is actually the retoucher. Go to the portfolio section, select one of the thumbnails, then put your mouse on the picture to view the original. Move it away to see the retouched version. It’s heartening to see how normal most of these people look before their dark circles, blemishes and slightly chubby thighs were polished off.

When I was at art school, I posed for some pictures my photography tutor took. Somehow, I was under the impression I might be able to swing a pass mark, but I was very, very wrong. After he’d processed them, he showed me a couple of versions where he’d stretched the print, giving the illusion I was about six feet tall and super willowy. I liked the look, but it was quite disconcerting. However, if I were a celebrity (oh, if only), I think I would totally dig the retouched version of myself … until I was faced with reality in the harsh light of day.

So take heart anyone who’s ever felt substandard in comparison to these perfect people, and know they look a lot more like you and I than you’d be led to believe. It also shows exactly how realistic all those stories like “get skin like Lindsay Lohan” are … even Lindsay doesn’t have skin like that!

Today I’m loving: elation, then heartbreak … all in one ten minute package. Easy come, easy go.