Category

Beauty

Category

Brand new At Home Hair Treatment by GENi Hair.

No, you are not dreaming you really can say goodbye to those straighteners and expensive blow-dries once and for all. From revolutionary hair and beauty company GENi Hair comes a brand new, world exclusive frizz-free do-at-home hair kit.

With just one incredibly simple application in your own home you can eliminate frizz and dryness, whilst achieving long-lasting volume and incredible silkiness for up to 12 washes. All without the need for straighteners or a trip to the salon. Put simply, It’s a game changer!

The GENi hair kit includes a Shampoo, Smoother, and a Leave-In Treatment which transforms hair and extensions in only 20 minutes for a salon-quality finish on all hair types.

– Eliminates frizz instantly for silky, shiny, straight hair
– Sulphate free, safe for natural hair extensions
– Cuts blow-dry and styling time in half
– No straighteners required reducing heat damage
– Save £100s on expensive salon treatments
– Lasts up to 12 washes
– Cruelty free, vegan friendly
– Botanical ingredients including exotic Brazilian fruits

Shampoo

Suitable for sensitive scalp and hair that is damaged by excessive heat and repetitive brushing. Its formula provides soft cleansing and strengthens the hair fibres.

Smoother

This genius formula – applied after washing to damp hair – eliminates the frizz from your locks leaving them extra silky while pumping up the volume and shine with no nasty side effects.

Leave-In Treatment

Moisturises, strengthens and reinforces the anti-frizz effect. Provides cuticle sealing, conditioning and extends the treatment results. This luxe cream smells delicious and applied to dry and damp hair will also protect your new locks from heat treatments.

The Science Info

GENi Hair Active Technology:

This is a world-first original and unique formula, an innovative use of raw materials and brand new application system exclusive to GENi Hair. The active, L-Cysteine, is absorbed by the hair and because it is in an acidic mean (ph 2.00-3.00) it acts on the hydrogen and salt bridges breaking the structure. With the application of heat from a hair-dryer the connection is restructured with a new configuration. The transformation of the bonds are not permanent since the hydrogen and saline bonds are the weakest bonds in the hair strand, meaning, the results will last up to 12 washes.

GENi Hair is the only frizz-eliminating hair treatment kit you will ever need. So what are you waiting for? Wave bye-bye to that Brazilian blow dry! Or why not gift the luxe pink and gold Christmas brand new At Home Hair Treatment by GENi Hair pack to someone special.

RRP is £100, available from GENi Hair

Wanna know more about beauty from House of Coco?

Age takes its toll on everyone, but some people wear their years more obviously than others. Have you ever seen people who look a lot older than they are? The primary signs of such premature aging are usually graying hair and wrinkles.

Wrinkles are so prevalent among middle-aged adults, and they’re caused by a variety of factors. Some things that affect your skin and cause wrinkles include your age, lifestyle and even your sex. Unless you want to look far older than you really are, there are several ways you can delay the first wrinkles from appearing.

Below are seven effective tips for preventing premature wrinkles and retaining the youthful appearance of your skin without cosmetic surgery.

Stop Smoking

Smoking already has a laundry list of negative health impacts but premature wrinkles is just the cherry on top of the carcinogenic sundae. Many health experts have connected smoking with increased wrinkles. Nicotine restricts your blood vessels and reduces your skin’s ability to replenish blood and nutrients. This leads to cellular degeneration that in turn leads to wrinkles. Quitting your nicotine habit can greatly improve the quality of your skin.

Relax

Stress can run your body ragged, from your cardiovascular system to your mental health. However, it can also wreak havoc on your skin. The many hormonal imbalances and bodily chemicals released by your body when its stressed can prematurely age your skin and make you develop wrinkles before your time. You can avoid this by managing your stress and relaxing. For example, you can take some time off every day to sip some yogi detox tea and listen to smooth jazz. Such relaxation techniques can help rejuvenate your skin.

Stay Away from the Sun

The sun is one of the most powerful aging factors in the environment. Medical experts have proven ultraviolet radiation dries out the skin and causes damage on a cellular level to your skin. This is particularly true when it comes to paler skin.

Whenever you leave your home to go under the sun, you should take every precaution to avoid ultraviolet radiation. Start by covering yourself up, whether with long-sleeved clothing or with large hats. If you want to expose some skin, be sure to cover it withplenty of sunscreen.

Keep Moist

Wrinkles are basically the dermal equivalent of cracks on a painting. And this type of cracking stems from your skin drying out. Without proper moisturizing, your skin will become brittle and less elastic, leading to wrinkles.

Aside from investing in the proper skin moisturizer, you should also avoid exposing your skin to conditions that would dry it out faster. Both blistering heat and freezing cold can lead to wrinkles.

Drink Water

Your skin needs moisture from the inside and the outside if you want it to stay supple and youthful. Dehydration can be just as damaging to your skin as staying outdoors without sunscreen. No matter where you are, you should always remember to drink plenty of water, especially if you’ve been sweating a lot. A glass of water every hour is ideal and will help keep your skin fresh and smooth. Water helps replenish your body’s electrolytes and prevent it from cracking.

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is probably one of the least appreciated factors in health but your body runs down quickly if you don’t get enough of it. Your skin suffers just like the rest of your body when you don’t rest for long. Lack of sleep contributes to stress and can cause pimple outbreaks as well as additional wrinkles. Be sure to get between 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night, if you can afford it. Sleep helps your body rejuvenate its cells and relaxes, preventing stress form deteriorating your skin further.

Sleep on Your Back

It’s not just how long you sleep that affects your skin but also what your sleep position is. Skin is sort of like fabric and sleeping on your face stretches and warps it. Depending on how long you sleep, the skin on your face can be stretched and scrunched up for hours before you wake up. Instead of sleeping on your back and increasing the risk of developing wrinkles, sleep on your back as often as you could. This not only protects your face from wrinkles.

Premature aging is a concern for plenty of Americans of both sexes. Although there are plenty of cosmetic and surgical options available to retain your youthful appearance, your primary method should be changing a few things in your lifestyle. These small sacrifices will help you retain your youthful appearance for years.

From the farthest tip of Scotland to the most southerly beach towns in England, we have rounded up twelve best of British gifts to give your loved ones this Christmas. 2020 is all about supporting local businesses – think small-batch spirit brands, local foodie hampers, beautiful British books and Union Jack products in abundance, we have got you covered this festive season.

(1) Rock Rose Gin Winter Edition: This spectacular spirit is made with spruce tips – yes, you heard it correctly… Christmas tree gin! The multi-award-winning Dunnet Bay Distillers from the far north of Scotland have created the perfect winter tipple. Making for a truly festive flavour profile the hero botanical in this limited edition release was collected by the in-house gardener last December, with original Rock Rose elements scaled down to allow the delightful earthy and citrusy notes from the spruce tips to shine through. The stunning gin has been crafted with thoughts of bracing walks, roaring fires and cosy nights in mind. The signature ceramic bottle has also been given a festive snowy feel, making it a gorgeous gift this festive season. Priced from £37.50.

(2) NHS Heroes Knitted Christmas Jumper: The NHS has made the whole of Britain proud this year. These blue knits are emblazoned with a bold motif in celebration of our National Health Service. Each jumper, which will be discounted to NHS workers, comes with a free limited-edition NHS bauble, handcrafted and designed in the UK. 50% of profits from every sale will be donated to NHS Charities Together, a membership organisation representing, supporting and championing the work of the NHS’ official charities. Priced from £34.99.

(3) The Folio Society – On Her Majesty’s Secret Service: What could be more British than James Bond? The Folio Society offer the world’s most extensive selection of beautifully illustrated books including an exquisite volume of Ian Fleming’s On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, illustrated by Fay Dalton. Artist Fay Dalton continues her brilliant work on the extremely popular James Bond collection, bringing readers a vision of Bond that captures all the glamour and the grit of Fleming’s world with seven beautiful full-page colour illustrations. Tracy, the woman who wins Bond’s heart by recklessly outdriving him, sizzles on the page, while the sinister Blofeld oozes menace. Truly the perfect gift for any 007 fan and a lovely ode to the late Sean Connery this Christmas. A treasure to keep forever. Priced from £37.50.

(4) Arran Aromatics Handcare Duo Set: This gorgeous set is the perfect gift for 2020 when hand washing has been the order of the day. Treat your tired paws to a foaming hand wash which is gently formulated to deeply cleanse and a moisturising hand cream which contains shea butter, natural oils and actives of aloe vera leaf juice, which are known to soothe. The product was created in a Home Farm factory, an old dairy farm for the historic Brodick Castle in the heart of Arran, in Scotland and can be bought at Hayes Garden World. Priced from £28.

(5) The Cheese Geek – The Frankie: The Cheese Geek offer bespoke subscription services or scrumptious one-off boxes for special occasions. This Christmas they have created The Goldie, The Frank-ie and the Myrrh-ie – a feast fit for a king. The cheese is the best that Britain has to offer alongside a handful of European heavyweights and each box offers a fun fact file to accompany each delicious morsel. The team source directly from award-winning makers meaning the contents found in each box will not be found in the supermarket. This is the perfect gift for every cheese lover or a great treat to order straight to your door for the festive season allowing all the family to get involved. Cheesy jokes obligatory. Priced from £50.00.

(6) Ohelo 500ml Water Bottles: Ohelo is a London based brand designing everything right here in the UK. Ohelo makes and designs high-quality reusable 500ml water bottles perfect for a gym bunny, eco-warrior or adventurous traveller (post lockdown, of course). The products are all 100% leak proof, great for hot and cold drinks (keeps drinks hot for 12 hours, cold for 24 hours), easily portable and have sleek, colourful designs – they are good for the planet too! Priced from £29.00.

(7) Limited Edition Worstead Wagyu Christmas box: December is all about amazing food. Spoil the foodie in your life with a Christmas Wagyu box from the Worstead Estate, filled to the brim with the highest quality, melt-in-your-mouth wagyu beef – there is enough included in the box for you to get in on the action too! The Christmas wagyu box comes with two sensational fillet steaks, two ribeye steaks, four-second cut steaks, one roasting joint and six delicious burgers. Worstead Estate is the first in Norfolk to rear and sell premium wagyu beef, adhering to the highest ethical rearing and sustainable farming methods. The ultimate treat for any meat-lover this Christmas. Priced from £90.00.

(8) No Secrets Mini Home Spa: No Secrets is a British beauty brand with a difference. The company makes pure, luxury, plant-based skincare that is cruelty-free. No Secrets only uses the finest natural ingredients, especially chosen for their purity, safety and affinity with skin avoiding any unnecessary chemicals such as parabens, phthalates and sulphates. The Mini Home Spa is letterbox size, perfect for sending to friends and family as a surprise over Christmas now that less people can gather than normal. This kit is just what is needed as 2020 draws to a close. It includes skin softening and smoothing Bath Jelly, a jar of the brand new nourishing, moisturising Hand and Body Butter and a stunning hand-poured soy wax votive candle. Available in both signature scents: ‘One’ – Fresh & Uplifting and ‘Four’ – Sensual & Calming. Priced from £22.00.

(9) Hattiers Egremont Premium Reserve Rum: The perfect gift for any rum lover or cocktail connoisseur. Established in Devon in 2017, Hattiers is looking to shake up the rum industry. Hattiers Premium Reserve Rum is a blend of four rums hand-picked from across the Caribbean and Central American and gently paired with pure soft water from the hills of Dartmoor, England. Delicious, warming, and the perfect tipple to enjoy at Christmas. Hattiers even has the recipe for a Breakfast Old Fashioned for cocktail experts to follow along in order to put together the perfect drink to enjoy over the festive period. Priced from £37.50.

(10) Lava Spirits Co Coffee Orange Gin: Lava Spirits Co has launched its debut range in the UK that includes the UK’s first Coffee Orange Gin. Utterly fabulous in decadent cocktails, great as a refreshing long drink with tonic or ginger beer, as well as served as a ‘sipper’, neat or on the rocks – this is the warming drink for an indulgent Christmas with notes of strong, fresh espresso and roasted coffee beans, expertly balanced by sweet citrus. Founded by Laura Bridge, Lava Spirits are distilled and handcrafted in the heart of the English countryside, using the finest quality, expertly roasted Arabica coffee beans. We’ll drink to that. Priced from £29.00.

(11) Willy’s Wellness Box: The perfect antidote for 2020 and an ideal gift for any wellness lover. Willy’s is a 100% naturally plant-based range of products each containing the 300-year-old LIVE Mother from Willy’s farm in Herefordshire which helps to boost immunity and improve gut health. Founded by Tyrell’s Crisps founder, William Chase, Willy’s Apple Cider Vinegar is the latest venture from his farm. This Christmas, Willys have created a wellness subscription box, perfect for a delivered-to-door health kick, all grown in the UK. The box contains easy to use recipes cards to incorporate the product into different meals and drinks as well as Apple Cider Vinegar Kombucha Cans and a Beetroot Health Shot, to name a few. Priced from £21.00.

(12) Hattingley Valley English Sparkling Wine: For someone special in your life, why not treat them to a bubbly bottle of premium English sparkling wine from family-owned Hampshire winery, Hattingley Valley. The perfect gift to add a touch of sparkle to the celebrations this festive season, Hattingley’s core range features a selection of award-winning bottles including the Classic Reserve (£30), Blanc de Blancs (£47.50) and the Rosé (£36). For those who prefer something extra lavish, opt for a bottle of the 2014 Kings Cuvée (£80) – a very limited release that recently won best sparkling wine in the UK. The Classic Reserve is also available in a stylish Union Jack gift box. Cheers! Prices vary.

Most of us are working from home right now, which has resulted in increased working hours and screen time as well as having to turn our living space into a makeshift office. If you and your workspace are in need of a wellbeing boost then try these quick wellness hacks.‍

Protect from screen effects

ilapothecary Digital Face Mist (£29/50ml) Packed with vitamins, antioxidants and anti-viral properties to help treat skin screen inflammation (Active Soy Extract is known to protect from screen effects)

‍Soothe sore eyes

Hayo’u Method Beauty Restorer (£38) Hold the cooling jade crystal over the eyes to relieve fatigue, alleviate puffy eyes or twitching eye muscles

Lift the room

ilapothecary Beat the Blues Room Spray (£10 for 15ml) This transformative blend helps to clear the atmosphere and creates an uplifting space in which to work

Relieve tension

Hayo’u Method Body Restorer (£38) Body gua sha is a quick and easy way to release tension after sitting for long periods. Press stroking across the neck and chest also boosts the immune system and circulation

The time has come to write a Christmas list, buy gifts for friends and family, and prepare plans for the much-anticipated festive season.

We have all been eager to get some form of normality into full swing recently, and what better way than by writing a gift guide that covers all your gifting needs, and all price points. Lounge on your sofa, sip a mulled wine, turn up the volume of your favourite Christmas tunes, and enjoy the stocking filler ideas below.

Under £5

The Natural Deodorant Co., Lemon & Geranium Deodorant, £4 (10g)

Gift a mini deodorant made with natural fruit oils and botanicals. Vegan, chemical free, and plastic free. Available from The Natural Deodorant Co

Body Collection England, Peach Blusher, £2.00

Add a pop of peach colour with this powder blush gift. Available from Wilko

OSMO, Mini Deep Moisture Mask, £2.99

Treat their stocking with the gift of hydrated hair with this mini deep moisture mask. Available from Feel Unique

So…?, Kiss Off Pout Balm, £4

Give kissable lips with this balm, enriched with sweet almond oil to leave the lips soft and moisturised. Available from So…? Fragrance

Lush, I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas Bath Bomb, £2.95

This fun bath bomb gift fizzes around the bath leaving popping candy and a raspberry scent in its trail. Available from Lush UK

Under £10

Cienna Rose, Under The Stars Nail Lacquer, £9

This festive midnight blue polish both sparkles and shines and is infused with nourishing botanical oils to protect the nails. Available from Cienna Rose

Q+A, Liquorice Lip Oil Cracker, £5.50 (usually £6.50)

Gifting a Christmas cracker is such a treat especially when it holds a lip oil blended with liquorice root extract, soyabean extract, and prickly pear seed oil. Available from Q+A Skin

St Moriz, Ultra Finish Instant Tan, £7.99 (usually £9.99)

Give the gift of glowing skin this winter by blurring imperfections with an airbrushed look and an ultra finished tan. Available from Boots High Street Stores and Online

Revlon, ColourStay Brow Creator, £8.99

Share the brow love this xmas with an eyebrow pencil that glides on effortlessly to define and perfect a groomed brow. Available from Feel Unique

BeYou, CBD Lavender & Chamomile Bath Bomb, £9.99

Handmade in the UK, this bath bomb gift is infused with 100mg of CBD, plus chamomile and lavender to stimulate your senses. Available from Be You Online

Under £20

My Beauty Squad, Lashes for Everyone, Boss Lashes, £10

Why not gift lashes to complete the party season look. The Lashes for Everyone Collection are glamourous, lightweight and reusable. Available from My Beauty Squad

Electric, C-8 Invisible Volume Chalk, £19.50

A great gift for him, this styling product with its magnesium free formulation, and chalk from the white cliffs of Sussex. Available from Electric Hair

Aromatherapy Associates, Toiletry Bag, £12

Gift this pretty toiletry bag to someone who travels, as it’s the perfect luxury cosmetics travel bag. Available from Aromatherapy Associates

Angela Langford, Angel Eyes Nourishing Eye Oil, £19.50

Cooling cucumber is blended with argan and rosehip to create an oil that repairs and smoothes the delicate skin around the eye. A glorious gift. Available from Angela Langford

Soak Sunday, Rose Utopia Botanical Bath Soak, £14 (280g)

Transform someone’s bath time into pure relaxation with this indulgent bath soak. Contains Himalayan salt, lavender, rose petals, sage and jasmine. Available from Soak Sunday

Under £50

Percy Nobleman, 1806 Fragrance EDT, £37

This classy, masculine fragrance is an excellent gift for a man. Blended with bergamot, lemon, neroli, orange blossom, amber and musk. Available from Percy Nobleman

Smelly Trees, Unisex Fragrance Mist, £25

This unisex fragrance is sustainable and ethical. Made with responsibly harvested tree oils, pure distilled water and organic food grade alcohol. Available from Smelly Trees

Rubis, Tweezer Pointer Swiss Cross, £23.95

Celebrity-favourite tweezers by Rubis make the ideal gift for someone who likes precise plucking. Available from Look Fantastic

Guinot, Love Your Body Gift Set, £45

A gift like no other, the Douche Soin Hydrazone Moisturising Shower Cream, and Lait Hydrazone Corps Body Lotion help to calm and soothe the skin. Available from Guinot

Look Fabulous Forever, Christmas Collection Cool Edition, £44 (usually £55)

For a mature lady in your life; soft cool tone blusher, no shimmer eye shade, lipstick and makeup bag. Available from Look Fabulous Forever

Lord knows after this year we all deserve a little bit of pampering, so we’ve help ease the burden of your Christmas shopping by rounding p some of THE most indulgent beauty buys we could find. Shower your loved ones with the gift of self-care this Christmas… and maybe pick yourself a little treat in the process…

We love discovering independent new beauty brands. Naya Glow was launched in 2018 after its founder visited 60 countries and was inspired by local rituals, herbs and remedies and is passionate about being luxurious yet affordable. It uses sustainably sourced bioactives, scientifically proven ingredients to deliver transforming results and provides total transparency across their supply chain. The Perfect Sleep Treatment Collection (£112) includes a Hydration Mask with five different types of hyaluronic acid and their Cacay Oil A + for nightly skin repair. Combined with the gentle Face Dry Brush it’s everything you need for a replenishing facial massage.

Beauty tech has come on leaps and bounds in the last few years and the latest gadget from Foreo is a seriously high-tech addition to any beauty regime. The UFO 2 Power Mask & Light Therapy Device may set you back £249, but with T-Sonic™ facial massaging, full-spectrum LED light therapy, upgraded tech, faster heating and cooling and optimised app-led treatments, it’s been labelled ‘the Swiss Army Knife of the beauty world’. Its Farm to Face collection of activated masks to work with the device draws ingredients from across the globe to ensure the very best go into each one.

There’s a reason the Eve Lom Cleanser has become something of a cult skincare icon. Its rich formula melts away makeup and grime at the end of the day and pair with the Rescue Mask, as it is in this dreamy Rescue Ritual Gift Set (£75) the dynamic duo with leave skin soft and nourished.

It may look like an instrument of torture, but the K Facial Sonic Facial Sculptor (£39.99) replicates a professional facial massage to carry out lymphatic drainage on the face, lifting and contouring to leave it more cultured. It’s also available as part of a full at home fancial experience set from K-Facial which also includes a K Facial Steamer, Aqua Facial and Ice Roller.

Award-winning Danish skincare brand Ecooking is everyday luxury for the skin. Their epic gift sets are that good they’ve already sold out, but the website has individual products in stock like the Peeling Mask, packed with the dynamic trio of lactic, glycolic and salicylic acids to leave skin glowing. £35 at www.ecooking.com

We know we’re all itching to travel again and when we do the Aesop Departure Travel Kit (£45) will be coming with us. I’ve long been an advocate of a serious skincare regime when flying long-haul (Google Lisa Eldridge’s for some top tips) and this handy catch-all kit ensures lips, hand and face stay hydrated in transit, as well as including toothpaste and mouthwash to freshen up pre-landing.

Spa brand Ishga was born in the Scottish Hebridean Islands and draws on the natural antioxidants found in seaweed for its incredibly indulgent range of skincare and body products. This year they’ve introduced a range of festive crackers and the Body Cracker (£35) gets our vote for an unrivalled bath time treat. With bath salts, body oil, Hebridean Sea Salt scrub and a hand poured candle, it’s enough to help anyone switch off. When we’re allowed to spa again their products and treatments can be found at spas across the land, from Coworth Park to Glasgow’s Blythswood Square.

Crabtee & Evelyn has long been a favourite British name, but its recent rebranding has elevated it to become a new luxury bathroom essential. The Blissful Bathing Collection (£63) contains a Spiced Honey Bath Syrup and Jasmine + Ylang Ylang Self-Massage Oil will turn any bathroom into a spa, packed with indulgent ingredients and fragrances. They’re also set to have 30% off site wide on Black Friday so definitely worth checking out.

Fans of hair brand Ouai’s quite frankly DREAMY fragrance will be thrilled to hear they can now layer their scent thanks to their holiday fragrance kits. The North Bondi scent features top notes of Bergamot, Apple Blossom, Raspberry and Italian Lemon, a heart of Rose, Jasmine and Violet and a base Sandalwood, Patchouli and White Mask and encapsulates holidays in its Eau de Parfum and Whipped Body Créme, packed with nourishing cupaçu butter, coconut oil and skin conditioning squalane. £38 at LookFantastic.com.

It’s no secret that NARS sells one Orgasm blusher every minute. Paired with the bestselling Laguna Bronzer and you have a double cult classic that’s just yearning to be in everyone’s Christmas stocking. I know I’ll certainly be picking one up for myself on my Christmas shopping jaunt… £31 from www.narscosmetics.co.uk

I love discovering what Benefit pull out the bag for their Christmas gift sets each year and 2020 has been no exception. Problem is, you might find it hard to resist getting one for yourself at the same time. The Magnificent Brow Show contains FIVE full size hero brow products, worth £112, for just £52.50. I know. With the Precisely, My Brow Pencil, Goof Proof Brow Pencil, Ka-BROW, 24-Hour Brow Setter and Gimme Brow+, and available in four shades, it’s definitely worth investing in.

Who wouldn’t want to wake up to find a deliciously luxuriously eye palette in their stocking on Christmas morning? We can’t choose between these big hitters from Charlotte Tilbury and Kevyn Aucoin, so are hoping Santa remembers them both… Charlotte Tilbury’s Luxury Palette. Is available in 15 sultry shade combinations (£40 each). We love the Green Goddess for making hazel eyes pop and the boldly beautiful Glamour Muse for its popping purple shade, but its the classic Pillow Talk, with its sultry pink shades, that gets our vote for a brilliant all rounder of everyday nude pink shades.

Kevyn Aucoin’s Something Nude Eyeshadow Palette (£47 and exclusive to Harrods) features 12 cool and warm shades in bendable matte and shimmery formulas, designed to suit every skintone. Deeply pigmented, it will be a dream to play with when we’re allowed out again…

Funny that it’s 2020 and we’re still fighting frizzy hair, but This Is Silk aims to change that with its range of silk accessories to help keep bad hair at bay. Live your best Princess Margaret life with the leopard print Silk Hair Wrap (£39.99) and lay your head down in style one of their Silk Pillowcases (£49.99) and you’re sure to wake up with princess-worthy locks.

For luscious locks, the Cult Beauty Hair Heroes Gift Set (£25) includes 10 favourites from brands including The Inkey List, Philip Kingsley, Olaplex, Davines and Living Proof in a cute 20s-inspired gift box. Worth over £89 it’s probably worth picking one up for yourself while you’re at it…

Fifteen years after I first got my hands on a pair of ghd straighteners they’re still the best and the latest incarnation, the ghd Platinum+ Styler (£199) is surely the ultimate all rounder. Featuring ultra-zone with predictive technology that senses your personal hair needs and adapts the delivery of power accordingly, (clever, huh?) the festive Limited Edition Wishing on a Star design comes in a luxurious iridescent white with a satin finish gold wishbone stored in a luxury vanity case.

For those who might be a little harder to buy for (read: fussy…) elevate the gift voucher with a token towards a spa weekend. South Bank design hotel Sea Containers London offers a voucher for its Spa Experience at agua London, including a treatment up to the value of £100. Renowned for its personalised treatments, it features six spacious treatment rooms, a Glamour Lounge for nails and brows, rain showers, steam baths and an impressive Spa Lounge with striking copper teardrop sculpture. If a weekend away is more their vibe, Leicestershire’s Ragdale Hall offer vouchers from £25, valid for a year and come beautifully packaged in a presentation pack with a voucher wallet and brochure, ready to place under the Christmas tree. Or if you really don’t trust yourself to choose on behalf of someone else, those clever folk at SpaBreaks.com also offer gift vouchers that can be used across the country, valid for a year.

Is there any better gift to receive than a fragrance? A ticket to the Seychelles may surpass that but in current times, there is no better present than fragrance. The power of our sense of smell is undeniable, as a scent can evoke fond memories or become one we associate with a loved one. Fragrance is something we gift to those we cherish most.

Fragrance makes an impact and leaves a lasting impression, so selecting the right one for someone is essential. We all have different tastes and fragrance is susceptive. Some people have one signature scent, a fragrance which they are known for and take pride in. Others have a fragrance wardrobe in which they select their fragrance according to location, mood, and event. If your loved one falls into the signature scent category then it is best to stick with what they love. However, if they fall into the fragrance wardrobe category it is a little more difficult.

Luckily, our beauty writer Vanessa, is fragrance obsessed and has put her nose to the test to compile a round up of the best ten fragrances to gift this Christmas. Covering women’s, men’s, unisex, entry level, niche and luxury, this guide is sure to have your loved ones smelling divine and thinking of you over the festive season.

Before we get to the good stuff, below are some tips to keep in mind when buying a fragrance for someone:
– If possible check their dressing table or ask them what fragrances they love. Then use a site like Fragrantica to discover the notes of the fragrance and find ones similar.
– Don’t blind buy; smell in-stores if possible or look to the online fragrance community for honest advice and reviews.
– Keep in mind that fragrance changes on the skin. Also take note of the longevity and the projection of the fragrance.
– Don’t assume that the more expensive a fragrance is better or will last longer.
– Buy the biggest size (usually 100ml) where possible as this is the best value for money.
– Remember that fragrance is susceptive so what you like and what someone else likes could be polar opposites.

Women’s

Cartier: Carat

A Cartier red box is something most of us have in our wildest dreams, yet this fragrance comes in one. Created by Cartier’s in-house perfumer, Mathilde Laurent, Carat by Cartier is just as beautiful and elegant as the brands jewellery. Fresh flowers that when combined create almost a new flower; bergamot, honeysuckle, ylang-ylang, tulips, lily, violet and mimosa, make this fragrance fresh and feminine, yet ever so slightly slightly seductive. All packaged in a crystal bottle that shines as bright as Cartier diamonds.

Shalini Parfum: Jardin Nocturne

Shalini Kumar creates her fragrances with master perfumer Maurice Roucel and creates fragrances that fall into a category of Haute Perfumerie. With an array of beautiful formulations, Shalini Parfum is a brand that provides the highest quality ingredients in their perfume oils. Jardin Nocturne was inspired by a discreet garden filled with waterfalls, fountains, where lovers meet under the stars surrounded by night-blooming flowers. A sensual fragrance that combines saffron and oud, yet it is the Jasmine blossom oil that shines through in this opulent perfume.

Tom Ford: Soleil Neige

The Tom Ford Private Blends collection is well renowned and with good reason. The Soleil fragrances are often reminiscent of sunshine days that have you dreaming of beach days and poolside cocktails. Yet Soleil Neige mimics the serene shimmer of the sun on snow; an Oriental Floral fragrance that opens with bergamot, has a heart of ivy, rose petals, jasmine, orange flower and Turkish rose. The dry down is however, where the magic happens; labdanum, benzoin, and vanilla create a comforting, seductive and slightly addictive fragrance.

Sana Jardin: Jaipur Chant

A brand that creates socially conscious and luxurious fragrances, Sana Jardin has an array of wonderful fragrances to choose from. The brand has a focus on producing clean and sustainable perfume that is cruelty free. The fragrance of choice for this gift guide is Jaipur Chant, an exquisite scent that is sure to leave you wanting a bottle yourself. Based around the use of the essential oil of the tuberose flower, the scent is enhanced with Moroccan jasmine, Italian lemon, making for an arrestingly beautiful and feminine bouquet, that is somehow both sparkling and sensual.

Men’s

Acqua di Parma: Colonia

A quintessential Italian fragrance that is iconic to Acqua di Parma. Colonia is fresh, light and mass appealing whilst somehow still being refined and luxurious. A truly timeless scent crafted from citrus fruits from Sicily; lemon, sweet orange and Calabrian bergamot combined with a heart of lavender, damask rose with a base of vetiver, sandalwood, and patchouli. An eau de cologne that withstands long days, projects well and brightens up any winter day. Presented in the Italian way, a simple yet luxurious flacon.

Carolina Herrera: Gold Incense

As part of the Carolina Herrera, Confidential Collection, the olfactive structure of Gold Incense is elegant and powerful yet refined. Evoking the incense of the Middle East, the Boswellia Sacra Incense accord merges with Atlas Cedarwood and labdanum creating an intense and long-lasting bae. Marigold, uplifts the fragrance and Madagascar Vanilla brings a sensuality to this luxury creation. Presented in an opulent gold bottle and adorned with a black and gold plaque, this fragrance is sure to turn heads, whether it is being worn or on a vanity cabinet.

Gentleman Givenchy

Gentleman by Givenchy is a failsafe to gift a man for Christmas. A woody aromatic fragrance created by Olivier Cresp and Nathalie Lorson. Described as a mixture of power and sweetness the fragrance opens with pear and cardamom, has a hear of iris and lavender and has a base of patchouli, black vanilla and a leather accord. The fragrance is a modern interpretation of the classic Gentleman, it proves how a man can be both strong and gentle; this is also represented in the heavy weight glass bottle.

Frederic Malle: L’eau d’hiver

L’eau d’Hiver by Frederic Malle was created as a fragrant sketch of winter by Jean-Claude Ellena. White heliotrope mixes with citrus notes, powdery iris and the sweetness of honey to create a powdery clean, cool fragrance. L’eau d’Hiver pushes the understated, minimalist style of the brand and crafts a pure and comforting creation. A complex fragrance with top notes of pink pepper, bergamot, lemon and grapefruit, lead way to heart notes of orange blossom, heliotrope, jasmine, rose, violet, ylang-ylang before entering a base of amber, benzoin, cedar, musk and sandalwood.

Unisex

Diptyque: Electric Diffuser

Not exactly a fragrance but one for fragrance lovers or Diptyque fans. Scenting your home is just as important as scenting yourself, as it can uplift your mood and promote relaxation, so this Electric Diffusor Plug uses contemporary, technology to diffuse the brand’s signature scents. Adorned with a gold pattern, just plug the socket in, add your choice of scented cartridge which is sold separately and enjoy the wonders of Diptyque. The diffuser emits your chosen scent throughout the day. The only problem is narrowing down which scent cartridge you would like to use, we recommend the brands best-seller; Baies.

Gucci Memoire d’une odeur

With Harry Styles as the face, Alessandro Michele the creative mind and Alberto Morillas as the perfumer behiind this fragrance it is no surprise its a success. A fragrance with top notes of chamomile and bitter almond, middle notes of musk and Indian jasmine along with base notes of sandalwood, cedar and vanilla. Alessandro’s olfactory vision of evoking memory fragments and emotions comes to life in this universal scent. It has been described as a mineral aromatic fragrance due to its unexpected elements.

“I’m a big believer in that if you focus on good skin care, you really won’t need a lot of makeup.”

· Demi Moore

I regret taking such good care of my skin,’ said no one ever. Probably, that’s why an average woman spends around $313 every month on her skincare and appearance. This makes it a whopping amount of $3756 in a year. Now, this must be enough to give you an idea about how much does women contribute to the global economy.

Further, the researchers claim that the skincare market is going to touch around $135 billion profit rate by 2021. Irrespective of nature, age, class, culture, and gender, people are conscious about their appearance. Eventually, this has resulted in ever-rising demand for plush makeup items.

Women and Their Skin Concerns

More than 60% of women suffer from puffy eyes, dark circles, whereas around 68% of women suffer fromskin dryness issues. Apart from these, the other skincare issues include – skin tone, chapped lips, ageing signs (wrinkles, fine lines, pigmentation, etc.), cracked skin, and much more.

What is the solution?

After giving up on skincare products, many women, especially from the United States and Canada, have started to show their hope and trust in cannabis. Those wondering what cannabis is, should not miss going through the below-shared information. The popularity of CBD skin care and other products have ten folded after the Trump administration gave it a green signal in 2018. This has resulted in a massive number of women inclining towards CBD skin care products the most. As a result, almost every Canada cannabis dispensary is selling quality cannabis skin care products to help people witness a notable change.

What is Cannabis?

It is a phytocannabinoid component explored in 1940. Since then, people have been using CBD as a medicine for treating issues ranging from skin to overall well being. With the chemical formula of C21H30O2, cannabis comes in an insoluble form with a melting point of 66 °C.

Apart from being a great source of healing the mental health, it works amazingly on several skin issues like –

  1. Uneven skin tone
  2. Acne
  3. Blemishes
  4. Pigmentation
  5. Puffy eyes due to insomnia
  6. Depression signs on the skin

Some promising benefits of cannabis extract for your skin –

  1. It ensures flawless and radiant glow on your face
  2. Eliminates awkward skin patches putting a question mark on your beauty
  3. Ensures even tone skin
  4. No more puffy eyes or dark patches under the eyes

Pro tip –

Cannabis consists of some concentrated medicinal properties. Therefore, it is not advisable to be used directly on your skin. One must blend it in a hand wash, soap, or face wash to see impressive results.

The last word –

Cannabis encompasses various health and skin benefits, but only when you know how to reap the maximum out of it. Where it improves the skin texture, it does work on healing chronic pain too. The positive impact depends on how you are consuming it. Currently, the cannabis dispensaries to online cannabis shops, all the stores offer an array of skin care products. However, don’t forget to check the authenticity of the product before buying it.

Aside from the usual and almost inescapable “morning breath,” there may be other times in the day when your breath starts to stale. To save whoever you’re with from the impending olfactory unpleasantness, you may pop a mint or swish some mouthwash.

Yet, these aren’t the only tried-and-tested solutions for freshening your breath instantly. If you read on FreshBreathSecrets, you’ll find there are home remedies for bad breath that work as well as our go-to personal care items. They’re also likely to be at hand, on top of your countertops or inside the cupboards.

Home Remedies for Bad Breath

For a quick restorative fix for stale breath, give the following home remedies a try:

1. Salt and Warm Water

This is the traditional mouthwash our grandparents swear by, and it works like a charm! You may be used to commercial mouthwash and can attest to their effectiveness, but as effective for breath freshening is a salt and water rinse.

Just add a bit of salt to warm water and mix well. Give the solution a thorough gargle around the mouth for half a minute and repeat if necessary. So long, bad breath!

2. Apple Cider

Not even offensive orders of onion and garlic can stand against a good dose of apple cider vinegar. Pour an amount on a glass and dilute with a bit of water, then give it a light swish around the mouth.

With a bottle of apple cider vinegar at hand, you should be able to eat food with imposing smells as frequently as you want. No sooner after eating will this natural mouthwash nullify the unsavory odor and restore order to your oral orifice.

3. Cloves

Cloves not only take your breath from a zero to a 10 in seconds, but they can also give it a “sweet” twist. That’s because cloves actually penetrate deeper than most home remedies, hitting the actual source of foul breath: bad bacteria.

Their powerful extractions seep into those cavities and all the nooks and crannies in your mouth to neutralize bad odor. Suck on them a couple of times a day, and you should be golden. That said, steer clear of the powder and oil varieties, since they may pack too much of a punch and burn your mouth.

4. Fruits and Vegetables

When meat gets stuck in your teeth, nine times out of ten that’s a recipe for bad breath. Fruits and vegetables are another story, acting as natural toothbrushes to remove bad odor instead of causing or adding to it.

If your breath’s a little stale, much on these crunchy snacks for a quick fix. You’ll find an orange, apple, carrot, or celery to have good breath-freshening qualities. Note, however, that some greens and fruits may not do much against the bad breath of extreme nature. In the event that they can make a difference, it won’t happen instantly.

5. Homemade Alcohol-Free Mouthwash

As a frequenter of the personal care aisle, you’re probably no stranger to alcohol-free mouthwash. They’ve been proven to be the better alternative to the alcohol-based option since they don’t dry your mouth—and we all know how a dry mouth is a haven for bacteria.

You can make your own alcohol-free mouthwash at home using the following ingredients:

  • Lemons
  • Honey
  • Cinnamon
  • Baking soda
  • Water

Mix these ingredients, and you’ll have an all-natural mouthwash good for two weeks of use.

6. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is great for fighting odor-causing microbes, so don’t hesitate to supplement your oral care routine with it. Just add a few drops to your toothpaste or homemade mouthwash to level up their breath-freshening qualities. You may also use the oil independently, brushing or applying it to your teeth and gums.

Defend Yourself From Bad Breath With a Good Offense

To minimize dealing with bad breath, establish a dental routine that centers on the prevention of odor-causing-bacteria buildup. More or less, that routine should involve the following:

  • Brushing at least twice a day, after breakfast and supper
  • Not forgetting to brush the tongue
  • Flossing twice a day, after breakfast and before bedtime
  • Visiting the dentist regularly
  • Periodically replacing your toothbrush
  • Giving dental accessories a thorough cleaning

In many cases, bad breath is caused by external factors that can be easily addressed by one’s go-to remedies. Whether it’s a quick swish of commercial mouthwash or munching on a celery stalk, countering stale breath doesn’t take much.

If unpleasant breath persists no matter what you try, consider scheduling a dental appointment. In cases like this, the culprit could easily be periodontal disease or some other condition beyond the abilities of your typical breath-freshening solutions.

Dentists are capable of identifying the root sources of your dental and oral problems. They can also implement the ideal treatment course, including home routines, to address these problems effectively and efficiently.

It is very difficult to maintain a good skincare routine in winter. With acne-prone skin, winters can only sum into more difficulties for your skin. In winters, your skin gets dry and itchy that can result in situations getting worse for your skin. Low consumption of water in winters leaves your skin dehydrated that can end up popping out more pimples and acne out on your face. Hence, acne is more likely to appear in winters than in summers.

Is there any cure for acne in winters? Yes, there is a list of certain procedures that could be done to ensure acne-free skin. All the recommended suggestions have been provided below. Go through them once.

Remedies to cure acne in winters

Since it is now relatable why acne appears more during winters. So, discussion about the cure is also crucial as winters are approaching anytime soon. Ten best cures are highlighted below, these are:

1. Clean your face: In winters, the dust and small particulate matter accumulation are on a rise, it gets clogged into your skin on the face. This situation results in the formation of acne. Hence, it is extremely important to clean your face using a good nourishing cleanser. There are several cleansers and cleansing products available in the market, choose wisely. You can pick acne-focused skincare products from many online websites as well.

2. Moisturization: It is in no disguise that in winters, your skin gets dry and itchy that can lead to a path for many skin-related problems. A proper moisturization is really important, it will keep your skin hydrated and nourished with the essential components required to maintain skin’s elasticity. Go and pick a good-reviewed moisturizer.

3. Avoid exfoliation: Exfoliation can be considered a reliable remedy in summers but it is a big no in winters. Your skin can get drier and can call out for more breakouts in winters. So, avoid using exfoliating products more often. You can use them once a week if required.

4. Inhale fresh air in the morning: You might want to keep your doors shut in winters but for letting fresh air in, you have to open all the locked doors. Proper ventilation is necessary. Moreover, the inflow of fresh air will rejuvenate and revive your skin.

5. Exercise is the key: No matter what season is it, exercising is very important. A proper workout schedule will leave a room full of fresh oxygen that will automatically appear as a glow on your face. It is a trusted option to prevent acne in winters. Moreover, it will relax your muscles.

6. Avoid certain things: Many things need to be avoided during winters. These are:

· Stop using products having an artificial fragrance, it can result in skin breakouts.

· Makeup having some oils and waxes can result in clogged pores leading to breakouts.

· Avoid using hot water, it leads to drying of the skin.

· Never rub your body vigorously after taking a bath as it will spread the bacteria and then will roar for breakouts.

7. Give a nod to flaxseeds: Many people wouldn’t know that flaxseeds are a good source of hydration. They reduce roughness, scaling, and skin sensitivity. Along with it, you can also have beverages or drinks that are rich in vitamin C, allowing fewer breakouts and wrinkles on the face. The main task it performs is preventing the formation of acne.

8. Sunscreen is a must: One could ask why is sunscreen important in winters? It is. The Ultraviolet rays do affect your skin in winters also. Professionals say that the sunlight in winters is harsher than in summers. Hence, never give up on sunscreen in winters also.

9. Give a break to the topical medications: you may be consuming some medicines for acne that can be a little troublesome for you in winters. You can give a scale back to those medications allowing your skin to breathe a little more. This will give space to your skin for relaxation and preventing breakouts. You can take it on alternate days or every third day.

10. Do not wash face too often: Washing face frequently can lead to breakouts and drying of the skin. You will feel unwanted itchiness on your skin. In case you are washing your face, do apply a good amount of moisturizer on your face to prevent the harshness of winters.

Conclusion:

All the aforementioned remedies have resulted in a fruitful fate. You can go and opt for them without having any dilemma in mind.