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6 min read
People always tell me that I’m hard to buy for, but I like to think this list might prove otherwise…
When it comes to Christmas gift giving, nothing hits quite like a well-thought-out beauty gift. They’re something people will actually use rather than a festive jumper that only gets dragged out of storage one month of the year.
As a senior beauty writer, I’ll admit I can be a tough customer to buy for; I’m fortunate in that I receive a lot of products to test out. Still, there are a lot of beauty-related gifts I’d be chuffed to unwrap on Christmas morning. Whether you have someone impossible to buy, are struggling for some inspiration or looking for the It beauty gift to wrap up this Christmas, I’ve got you.
Here are 14 beauty gift ideas to treat your loved ones this Christmas that won’t have them queuing up to return them in the Boxing Day sales.
Vieve Skin Nova Primer XL
One of my peaks of 2024 was discovering how incredible Vieve’s Skin Nova Primer is. Due to my obsession, I run through this stuff quickly. Not only would I appreciate a top-up so I’m never without it, but this XL 100ml version will keep me going for a while. Trust me, this stuff is the answer to any dull skin prayers.
Glossier Limited Edition Balm Dotcom
Shop Glossier Limited Edition Balm Dotcom at Sephora UK, £27
Artah Metabolic Fix
Give the gift of a good gut this festive season (I know it sounds off but bear with me). I try my fair share of supplements and swear by these for regulating my gut and minimising bloating.
I buy tubs monthly to keep me feeling in tip-top shape, and if someone were to tick that off my to-do list as a present, that would be greatly appreciated.
Merit The Dress Code Set
There is never a better time for a bold lip than at Christmas. Merit makes some of the best matte lipsticks out there. Not only do they look like velvet and stick around throughout dinner, but they don’t leave lips as dry as a fresh sponge after wearing.
I’ve never gone through an entire lipstick, but the one I have in the shade ‘Equestrian’ is down to a nub – proof of just how much I rate this formula. This limited edition set nails the moody tone I look for in a lipstick shade in three wearable colours.
Manucurist Green Flash LED Gel Polish Discovery Set
For the person on your list who loves a manicure, this DIY kit provides the same chic finish and long wear without damaging your nails or requiring an hour to soak them off.
The plant-based formula lasts up to 10 days (I’ve found it can last longer) and peels off in one go after just a minute. My nails look less flakey and grow faster when I stick with this kit over a traditional gel formula.
Shop Manucurist Green Flash LED Gel Polish Discovery Set at Manucurist, £75
Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Vault
The Rhode Kit
Maison Margiela Replica Jazz Club Eau de Toilette
Shop Maison Margiela Replica Jazz Club Eau de Toilette at LookFantastic, £60 for 30ml
Lush Spa Treatment
As a beauty journalist, I get spoilt when it comes to trying out the latest beauty treatments. When I got the opportunity to try out Lush’s offerings in their spa in-store, I was in awe of the value of the treatments on offer and how quiet and peaceful it was – no hustle and bustle to be heard despite its Oxford Street store being on one of the busiest streets on the planet.
The experience was better than some of the fancy spas I’ve tried and has me craving to go back. If you know someone in need of a well-deserved break (hello, mum), treat them to a massage or a voucher towards one. Plus, it’s a great idea if you’re looking to pare back on the material gifts this Christmas.
Loewe Tomato Leaves Small Scented Candle
Shop Loewe Tomato Leaves Small Scented Candle at John Lewis, £85
Drowsy Pillow Scrunchie
No offense to Carrie Bradshaw, but the scrunchie is definitely back. As someone who has no skills when it comes to hair styling, this scrunchie makes my style look ‘done’ with minimal effort required. It’s a statement piece that also doubles up as a handy travel pillow when I inevitably fall asleep on my commute.
L’Occitane Almond Delicious Shower Cream
Shop L’Occitane Almond Delicious Shower Cream at L’Occitane, £17.50
Diptyque Holiday Carousel and Baies Scented Wax Candle Set
Shop Diptyque Holiday Carousel and Baies Scented Wax Candle Set at Selfridges, £110
Images: courtesy of brands
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