Santa, baby, slip a custom colour-matched lipstick under the tree
Words Tania Grier
It’s that time of year again, when we try our hardest to get creative with gifting but end up bombarded with choice and distracted by things we ‘need’ for ourselves.
With that in mind, I’ve condensed my personal wish list down to 6 products, ranging from a custom skin tone-matched lipstick to a heavenly winter perfume.
…Whether you gift these or keep them for yourself is, of course, down to you. Happy shopping!
Bespoke Lipstick at Colour ID Lab with Code 8
This is such a fun experience and the ideal gift for anyone struggling to find the right lipstick, or simply in want of a bespoke lip colour. Colour maestro Juan will consider your skin tone and preferences (whether that be nudes, pinks, or classic reds) and trial colourways to find your perfect shade. Sip champagne, relax and enjoy a mini-makeover. 30 minutes later you’ll leave with a lipstick that’s unique to you, with details saved for when you need a top-up. Eliminating shades together is fun and informative, and applying the final lipstick deeply satisfying.
Body Paint by Vilhelm Parfumerie
A new interpretation of fragrance by Jan Vilhelm, this exquisite perfume brand from New York is the epitome of cool. Body Paint is a sensual, unforgettable blend of pear, red pepper, nutmeg and oak moss. I literally cannot wait to spray this each morning. With its heavenly scent of woody winter walks, it’s the perfect luxurious gift for someone who deserves to be spoilt.
Magnetic Brush Set by Ruby Hammer
Exactly what I’d expect from this talented makeup artist with 25 years in the industry – a sleek, sustainable design and great quality tools. Hygienic and compact, the set contains three interchangeable travel brushes for concealer, lips, eyeliner smudging, cream liners, brows, whatever you like. Each brush is protected by a magnetic lid, so you’ll never ruin your handbag again. Practical for travel and day-to-day use, it’s the gift that keeps on giving.
Hair Loss Solutions by PÉRGATIS
Not your average Christmas gift, I know, but thinning hair is a reality for many men and women. PÉRGATIS products are 100% natural and should start to work their magic within six weeks. The powerful Ayurvedic concoction was developed by Dr Amir Jafri for thinning hair – great for women who wear tight braids or have hair loss from childbirth, menopause, post-chemotherapy, stress. Massage the oil onto the scalp a few times a week and leaving on for 4 hours – it has an intense scent, so I suggest using it while at home. Having tested this on a friend, I know it works – after only six applications the patch was around 50% thicker. And for anyone considering microblading your eyebrows, try their BROW oil first, I’ve seen dramatic results up close.
Cleansing Oil Capsules Travel Set by EVE LOM
The legendary skincare brand launched these superb Cleansing Oil Capsules recently (£55 for the full size) but it’s the refillable carry case that gets my vote – a thoughtful gift for a friend who’s away for the holidays and wants to pack light. Complete with a 14-day supply it’s a good way to trial the product and when they / you fall in love with it (you will) and invest in the standard size, the mini case will be a saviour for travelling. Don’t worry, the capsules are vegetable based and 100% biodegradable.
Killa Kit by ZitSticka
If you have a teenage relative prone to spots, the Killa Kit by ZitSticka takes all the stress out of having pimples. I met the founders, Daniel and Robbie, when they launched here. Both were acne sufferers and neither could find a long term solution, so the product was born out of frustration. Aiming to take the stigma out of acne, the Killa Kit uses micro-dart technology to deposit acne-busting ingredients deep into an early stage spot. While dissolving, the hyaluronic and salicylic acid penetrates the zit, preventing it from becoming a big spot. Each box has 8 patches and 8 pre-cleanse swabs for ultimate hygiene. Patches can be worn during the day as they’re only visible when up close. Clever, and very effective.
