October is a big birthday month for me – between best friends and family members, there are many, many presents which need to be bought. It will come as no surprise that beauty products are the gifts I tend to give most often – they’re generally the items people can’t justify buying for themselves, which make them all the more special to receive! I thought it might be helpful to give you a quick run-down of some of my favourite gifting items in case you’ve got a big birthday month coming up too (or, you know, Christmas):
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream All-Over Miracle Oil R425.00
This multi-purpose oil is designed to be used on the face, body and hair. It smells sublime (and not at all like the traditional Eight Hour Cream, thankfully) and leaves the skin baby-soft. I got through my bottle in record time and will definitely be repurchasing.
Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm R390
The best hand cream I have ever used. The scent is completely intoxicating, and it keeps hands in tip-top shape. Leaves the skin hydrated but not greasy, so you can apply it and go about your business without leaving greasy fingerprints everywhere.
CHANEL Rouge Coco Shine Hydrating Sheer Lipshine in ‘Boy’ R610
Yes it’s expensive, but it’s Chanel. The formula, as the name suggests, is sheer and hydrating, so it won’t dry the lips out or accentuate any flakes/chapping. The shade ‘Boy’ is universally flattering and looks stunning on everyone – you really can’t go wrong with this.
CHANEL Miroir Double Facettes Mirror Duo R575
Every woman needs a compact mirror to keep in her handbag, and this one is impossibly chic. If you really love someone, give them this. A classic, timeless gift.
REN Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask R595
Still the most effective exfoliating mask I’ve ever used. It lifts away dead skin cells without irritating the skin, and leaves your complexion looking completely refreshed.
MAC Mineralize Skin Finish in’Soft & Gentle’ R420
This highlighter is really gorgeous. It’s soft and subtle, so it can be worn during the day without fear of looking like a disco ball, but you can also amp up the glow for evenings out by applying it damp. Also, the pan is ginormous, so you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck.
Tom Ford Cream Color for Eyes in ‘Spice’ R695
Is R695 a reasonable amount of money to spend on a tiny pot of cream eyeshadow? Of course not! Am I going to tell you to do it anyway? Of course I am! The formula is superb, the colour is glorious and un-dupable (in my opinion), and I can guarantee that the recipient will squeal with delight when she opens it.
Urban Decay Naked 2 Eyeshadow Palette R850.00
If you want a gift to secure your spot in the recipient’s good books (for life), look no further. This eyeshadow palette is a classic, and for good reason – the shadows are buttery, pigmented and blendable, and can be used to create a wide variety of looks. Any woman would be thrilled to receive this (and if she isn’t, then you shouldn’t be friends with her, because she’s obviously the worst).
Clarins Fix Make-Up R335.00
The packaging and scent of this setting spray make it a total object of desire. It will look glamorous on your dressing table, and spritzing the fine mist over your face will make you feel equally glamorous. Divine.
beautyblender R399
Any make-up junkie would be thrilled to receive a beautyblender. I have been using one (not the same one, obviously) for the past three years and I will never be without it – it is an invaluable blending tool, and I have yet to find an alternative that works as well as the original.
NUXE Rêve de Miel Lip Balm R195
A staple in my bed-side table collection, this balm works wonders at keeping dry lips at bay. I slather it on every single night and my lips are always plump and soft when I wake. A hard working product in a pretty jar – might as well be a bulls eye.