We’ve all been there, and done that. And by that we really mean having played the R21 version of pass the parcel also known as regifting, and less so the trials and tribulations of modern online dating.
While the act in itself is no faux pas in light of the discourse on Sustainability™, pitfalls are aplenty—from accidentally passing on a personally-engraved perfume flacon, to sending expired makeup.
So tis’ the season to avoid being a victim statistic. Ditch the snow globes and tacky graphic tees, leave the guesswork behind like Harry Styles ditched gender conformity in 2019.
Popspoken‘s curated some of our favourite beauty picks this season (read: our extensive wishlists) to save you and your loved ones from the onslaught of questionable taste this holidays. If you have a limited budget you can use black friday deals to save money with the discounts.
Haircare
Kristin Ess – Instant Lift Volumising Mousse
With 20 years of styling and coloring hair, Ess’s cult favourite haircare line delivers luxury performance on a drugstore budget. At under $30, it holds its own against mousses triple its price, even on short hair. You’d be hard pressed to find a bottle this chic too; a little goes a long way. In moderation, blow dry through freshly washed hair for lasting humidity-proof volume.
OUAI Dry Texture Foam
https://www.instagram.com/p/BgRS7ZKlehr/
If you’re lazy and you know it, clap your hands. The hair equivalent of giving yourself a smokey-eye doesn’t even require a blow dry. Infused with rice protein to add hold and memory, this foam also provides frizz control and UV protection. Work through dry hair from mid-lengths to tips, scrunching as you go until satisfied. It’s sex hair in a bottle, so be careful who you gift this to.
Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair!™ Deep Conditioning Mask
Hair goes from pre-puberty Hermione Granger to her descending the grand staircase at the Yule Ball, into the hearts of men everywhere. A blend of transformative nutrients from b-vitamins, rosehip and argan oils, collagen and algae extract work to impart lustrous shine. It’s also paraben, silicone and sulphate-free for conscious folk.
Skincare
LG Pra.L Dual Action Cleanser
Clarisonic, but better. There, we said it.
With two brush heads for different skin sensitivities and durational modes, the best part of this brush is the audio guide that takes you through a full facial cleanse routine without having to use your brain. Switch it on, and switch your mind off. At almost $450 though, we recommend you treat yourself on the pretext of Christmas shopping.
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel
A pad a day keeps the dermatologist away. This is a life-changing (trust us) 2-step professional chemical peel in a home use delivery system for all skin types. Five powerful yet gentle exfoliating acids are followed by anti-ageing actives to nourish and balance skin. Visible, lasting difference even after a single use. Give the gift of clear skin this holiday.
Shangpree S-Energy Long Lasting Concentrated Serum
From Seoul’s renowned Shangpree Spa and 28 years of holistic skincare experience comes a spa serum to rival all serums. Youth-restoring ingredients reinforces skin’s natural moisture barrier, keeping skin soft & nurtured all day. Perfect for that one friend who couldn’t afford a third trip to Korea this year-end.
Makeup
Hourglass Scattered Light Glitter Eyeshadow Collection
Sophisticated, jewel-toned shimmer meets easy finger application. We’re not sure what else you’d want for the holidays, except to let everyone know you’re flourishing.
Hourglass’ holiday collections over the years have never disappointed – from the Ambient Lighting Powder edits to well, actually everything else. Snag some for yourself while you’re at it. We know we did.
Charlotte Tilbury Instant Look In A Palette in Gorgeous, Glowing Beauty
Remember that scene from Bridesmaids where Helen gifts Lillian a trip to Paris at the bridal shower, prompting Kristen Wiig’s masterclass of a meltdown? Yeah, gifting anything Charlotte (like this gorgeous do-it-all palette) carries a similar envy-inducing risk to anyone within a 10m radius.
Now that we’ve got that out of the way, may we suggest adding a Gift Of Pillow Talk Lips for maximum impact. Now if you would kindly sign the indemnity form attached.
Lisa Eldridge – The New Velvets Lipstick
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4z3OtklrXH/
Cop this once-a-year release before it’s gone. No, like, hurry and buy it yesterday because pictures don’t do it justice at all.
Editorial and red carpet makeup artist to the stars Lisa Eldridge has launched a new arsenal of lipsticks in elegant mid-tone roses, bold crimsons and comforting chocolate hues. Each goes on with a satin, long-wearing and extra creamy finish. It’s your life, held together in a stunning bullet case.
Home
Neal’s Yard Remedies Prepare For Bed Night Time Gift
Most pillow sprays come at a price point that uh…isn’t very sleep inducing. Thankfully this one is. The kit comes with a pillow mist and roll on applicator – the organic multitasker works on both insomniac editors and children who hate bedtime (can’t relate), even for nauseating train rides home. Available in-store at Takashimaya or online here.
Aesop Olous Aromatique Room Spray
My Aesop room spray brings all the boys to the yard.
Billed as “a blend of citrus botanicals, balanced by breaking waves of Cedar and the refreshing spice of Cardamom”, it might not be fiscally-responsible adulting but we promise it smells very close to it. Blessed is the friend with a P.E. smelling room who receives this.
Haeckels Large Exfoliating Vegan Seaweed Block
Raw crushed botanicals of coriander seeds and pepper corns scrub away dirt and smooth rough patches all over the body whilst seaweed, aloe vera and tea tree actively hydrate and repair the skin.
If that isn’t appealing enough for your giftee (said nobody ever), then maybe the minimalist, rustic packaging will strike a chord in their cold, cold heart.
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