It could go down as her Gerald Ratner moment. Dame Helen Mirren, face of the skincare brand L’Oreal, has confided that using moisturiser “probably does f--- all”.

The Oscar-winning actress made her comments during a promotional tour for L’Oreal in the South of France, where she was appearing in her capacity as brand ambassador.

“I’m not setting standards for others. All I can do is be who I am. I’ve always loved make-up,” she said.

“I’m an eternal optimist - I know that when I put my moisturiser on it probably does f--- all, but it just makes me feel better. I’ve always said to L’Oreal as well that I will only do what makes me feel better.”