I really love experimenting with beauty products I think it’s amazing how we can transform our looks to suit our moods and personality. I love beauty products, and not always for vanity reasons. I can’t tell you where it comes from because I really think I came out of the womb like this. Just ask my mother I loved my dolls as a kid, and of course I used my sister for a makeover or two. I’ve honestly always loved anything hair and makeup for as long as I can remember. My favorite toys as a kid were those big barbie heads, you know the ones that you could style their hair? I used to create such elaborate looks for her I wish we’d taken more photos lol!!
When I was little I used to deliver the newspaper, and I’m not exaggerating when I tell you that I spent ALL my money on magazines, nail polish and lip smackers!
I fell head over heels for it all I wanted to try everything (or at least on my sister lol sorry about chopping all your hair off before our family portraits, love ya ;)) and to be honest I still feel that way today! The holidays add a whole other element into the mix because I love giving presents AND I love beauty products so my heart is pretty much bursting over here with today’s blog post!
If you have a beauty product lover on your list (or you’re looking for ideas to suggest to your hunny) this blog post is for you! From skincare to hair care I’m got you covered head to toe (literally).
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE FOR THE BEAUTY JUNKIE
LUXE BODY PRODUCTS
I was first introduced to Laline when my friend Rachel Dinh (RachelDinh.com) invited me along with her to some of her blogger events while I was visiting in Toronto. We had the best day together I mean I road a bike with a flat tire in a shopping mall, so I mean it’s up there on the #bestdayever scale.
We attended the opening of the first Laline store in Canada at Sherway Gardens. It was such a fun event, and really felt in my element with the other Toronto bloggers and influencers (it was so fun). Laline is a skincare company that originated from Israel (by two women I might add), and I just love their core values!
Laline loves to inspire you to take a laline moment, suggesting you take a quiet moment to yourself however you define that they hope their products inspire those moments in your life.
I mean how do you not get behind the following:
Don’t believe in perfection. Believe in perfect moments. Little pleasures create great moments. Happiness is not a goal, it is a state of mind. Your body is the temple of your spirit. Be yourself. It’s the perfect way to be unique. The best way to cheer yourself up, is to cheer someone else. The greatest pleasures are the ones you create for yourself.
And their products are BE-AU-TIFUL TO BOOT. I’m trying to get them to open a shop out East so please go head over to the Laline Canada facebook page or Instagram and spam with comments and Halifax love lol.
But if you want to get your hand on their products you can order online, and might I suggest the Shea & Kukui line. I’ve tried a number of the products from this line, and I’m still working my way through then months later (so they definitely last bc I use them every day). Below are some newbies I just received and can’t wait to add to the roster. And just peeking at their site I also just noticed they have a glitter mouse!! I mean how cool is that!! Might need to order that one ASAP for my girl Kerrianne lol she would be ALL over it.
You can’t go wrong with Laline Products, not only are they inspiring some quality down time, but they are packaged to perfection, and smell and feel amazing. I can’t say enough about these items.
SETTING POWDER TO END ALL SETTING POWDERS
One of my favorite favorite products is the Prisme Libre Loose Setting Powder from Givenchy. I have the Mousseline Pastel, and I LOVE LOVE LOVE this product, now it’s a little more pricey that your average drug store powder, but two things (a) it’s amazing and (b) it’ll last a long time. Did I mention it’s amazing?
“Upon application, imperfections appear diminished and skin looks more even and porcelain in nature, with a lasting, radiant, matte finish. The formula and the pigments are treated with an exclusive, technological atomization process that creates a perfectly uniform and natural-looking result”.
Okay here’s what I love about the Prisme Libre Loose Powder.
- It’s great for helping your makeup last, and reduce shine/flashback etc I always use it for shoots, events, parties etc.
- It smells amazing (I love it).
- It’s in a beautiful package.
- Paraben Free
- The multi-tones somehow create some kind of magic on your face, and I can’t explain it but it’s perfect every SINGLE time. You can also use it to “bake” your makeup (trust me your makeup junkie will know what this means).
- I would and likely will purchase this myself (and guys I NEVER buy makeup).
I promise you if you have a beauty junkie on your list they are going to FLIP for this product.
Available at Sephora ($68), Holt Renfrew
LIMITED EDITION LIPSTICK
Limited Edition, Juicy Couture Glitter Velour Lipstick (available while supplies last at Shoppers Drug Mart + Macy’s in the US).
Have it all. Vibrant color wrapped in a golden glitter creates the perfect mix of smooth, rich matte color with a touch of sparkle. Available in 5 shades.
HOW TO USE:
- Apply directly to lips (don’t use a brush) to get the perfect mix of rich matte color and sparkle.
- For a little extra glitter, layer on Juicy Couture Oui Lip & Eye Topper in Glitter Crush.
Shades (bottom to top): UV Darling, Girl Stuff, Not Your Babe, Happily Ever After, and Ripped and Zipped.
VERDICT: I’ve worn these lipsticks to a few different events and I was so impressed with their longevity! They also didn’t dry out my lips like a lot of matte lipsticks. I love the hint of sparkle, and you can add a little or add a lot (rub your finger along the glitter slide to pick up more sparkle and apply to your cupids bow).
Juicy Couture Oui Glitter Lip & Eye Topper (available while supplies last at Shoppers Drug Mart, and Macy’s in the US).
Be over the top with this multidimensional gold-tone metallic lip and eye topper. Layer it over eyeshadow for a gilded glossy lid or swipe it onto lips as a glitter topper.
HOW TO USE:
- Apply to eye or lip with doe-foot applicator.
- Pat or dab, using your finger as necessary to spread out glitter.
- Use a little at a time to build up to your desired look.
- Pro Tip: Color outside the lines and glide over brows when you really want to draw attention to your eyes.
I AM OBSESSED with the Glitter Eye Topper I do hope they consider making it a full time! Ive used it as an eye shadow, a lip gloss, applied it to my collar bones for a holiday event as well on my cupids bow while wearing a red lip, and I just love love the look. It dries super fast, and last and lasts! OBSESSED!
FRAGRANCE
PLAYFUL. INDEPENDENT. SPIRITED. Just say Oui to the new fragrance, OUI by Juicy Couture .
Get hooked right from the start with the tart freshness from a fusion of watermelon and lemon in a special water lemon note. The chic sophistication of jasmine absolute paired with provocative wild tuberose creates an iconic duo while a modern sense of addiction is born through sleek techno woods.
Top notes: Water Lemon, Acai Tea Natureprint, Pear Infusion
Heart notes: Jasmine Absolute, Wild Tuberose, Dewy Honeysuckle Natureprint
Base notes: Techno Woods, Amber Resins, Captive Musks
Mood: Fresh & flirty
I love gifting fragrances there’s something so fun about picking out that perfect one, and knowing it came from you!
I am definitely a Juicy Couture girl when it comes to fragrances I have almost every single one, and I’ve never met one I didn’t like.
I switch them up based on my mood, and sometimes I even layer them. I’m am always getting compliments on my fragrances (I’m a hugger), and I always say: Juicy Couture Forever. And the Juicy Couture Oui is no exception I’ve been wearing it recently and I’ve been loving it so so much!! Definitely a win.
THE BEST IN SKINCARE
I use and test a lot of skincare products, but I do have to say Laneige is definitely my favorite. Laneige, a Korean Skincare company has so many products to suit my skin type I don’t even know where to begin. For those who’ve followed me for a while know I really prefer to use gel based products, as I find heavy creams typically break me out so they really aren’t doing what they are intended to do for me because I break out, and stop using the product.
For someone who’s dealt with acne for the better part of my adult life I’ve honestly had the best success with Laneige. I love love love it so much.
I’ve tried many products from Laneige and these are some of my favorites:
Formulated with Hydro Ionized Mineral Water, this essence deeply delivers six essential minerals zinc, magnesium, manganese, potassium, calcium, and sodium to help skin look toned and smooth.
This luxurious formula delivers around-the-clock hydration and protection for skin that looks supple and silky.
- Directions: Using your hands gently spread from center of the face outward after toner. Press palms into face for better absorption.
Cooling and lightweight, its silky texture makes it the ideal choice for warm climates and oily skin, absorbing quickly and delivering essential hydration.
- Directions: Gently spread from center of the face outward after essence.
The same superior technology for accelerated hydration, now in a singularly refreshing and quick absorbing eye awakener. Micro-sized particles of Hydro Ionized Mineral Water deeply penetrate the gentle eye area, preventing dryness and protecting from external aggressors.
In tandem with quinoa extract, olive oil, and moisture-balancing tillandsia, skin around the eyes reveal a fresher, more radiant appearance.
- Directions: Gently pat around the delicate eye area to enhance absorption.
FOR THE MASK LOVER!
A clarifying gel-clay mask, crafted from mineral mud and mint water, that removes pore-clogging oil and impurities.
Solutions for:
– Pores
– Oiliness
– Dullness and uneven texture
An overnight mask, enriched with peptide water, for a fuller, plumped appearance.
Solutions for:
– Dryness
– Loss of firmness and elasticity
– Dullness and uneven texture
An overnight face-firmer yielding visible results, this mask is formulated with Sleep-Tight™ technology. Two types of polymers—shape memory and natural oat-derived—strengthen the skin barrier, while Dynamic Collagen™ boosts for firmer, younger-looking skin. As an added bonus, the lush Sleepscent™ fragrance, infused with soothing rose, ylang ylang, orange flower, and sandalwood, relaxes the senses.
An overnight, moisture-recharging gel mask that quickly absorbs while you sleep to deeply hydrate skin.
Solutions for:
– Dryness
– Dullness and uneven texture
– Fine lines and wrinkles
Recharge your dehydrated skin while you sleep with this innovative mask. It’s formulated with highly concentrated Hydro Ionized Mineral Water to deliver high doses of moisture to stressed, parched skin. Calming Sleepscent™, infused with orange flower, rose, and sandalwood, and it relaxes and comforts while apricot and evening primrose extracts to brighten and purify fatigued skin. The result: skin looks and feels radiant, refreshed, and soft so you wake up with soft, glowing skin.
ANTI AGING
If you have a beauty junkie on your list, you have an anti-aging junkie on your list, and when it comes to anti-aging Retinol is been the go-to product! I mean what’s good enough for Oprah is good enough for me. I used to watch who I like to call Mama Oprah everyday after school, and I like to think she knows a thing or two about anti-aging because she’s only getting more and more beautiful to me.
I love the concept of the Rodial drops, because (a) it’s concentrated, but (b) it’s easy! There’s no fuss of other stuff you’re getting what you want!
Rodial has a few different types of Booster Drops, from a soft focus glow (um hello real life face filter), Glycolic (great for anti aging and acne actually because it promotes exfoliation), Collagen (we lose this as we age so give me all of it, and the Retinol (reduces the appearance of fine lines) so there’s a little bit of everything!! You can definitely impress your beauty junkie with any of these lovely products.
For the Retinol be sure to only use a few times a week, and gently massage into the areas of concern. I always apply it at night 🙂 It absorbs really quick so it’s easy to add into your routine.
HYDRATION + SKIN PLUMPING
Forget the primers the Vichy Mineral 89 is everything you need! I can’t even tell you how many of these I’ve gone through already, 5 maybe 6?? This last one I actually purchased (at Shoppers, and I got a gift with purchase I might add so BOO YA).
“Give your skin its daily boost of strength. Minéral 89 is a non-greasy gel formula combining all the power of high-dose Vichy Mineralizing Thermal Water with natural origin hyaluronic acid to strengthen skin’s barrier function. Drop after drop and day after day, a daily dose of strength to boost skin’s health and resistance”.
If you’re looking for a product to intensely hydrate (in a lightweight way), and plump your skin to it’s former youthful self this product is for you. This product was chosen as Canada’s favorite product and I am NOT surprised. I LOVE this product and how it makes my skin look both with makeup and without. Even my boyfriend is onto it now lol and he loves it.
ORAL SUPPLEMENTS
Omega 3s + Collagen
I always make the Mean Girl reference when it comes to Omegas and Collagen because guys I push people, I’m a pusher. But for reals these two products are my lifeline when it comes to keeping my hair, skin, and nails healthy!
Omegas 3s and specifically the anti-aging formula from Bend Skincare are like next level amazing, containing Vitamin D, and Lutein they not only help protect your skin from the harshness of environment aggressors, retains moisture and elasticity, but it also works as a natural sunscreen by neutralizing free radicals from sun exposure.
I MEAN! Who doesn’t want all of that?? Not to mention omegas are so crucial for our brain and heart health that it’s really a win/win on all fronts.
The Bend Anti-Aging Formula comes in liquid and capsules, I tend to favor the capsules only because the liquid needs to be refrigerated and I travel quite a bit. The liquid is more potent though so you only need to take it once a day so that’s definitely a bonus if you’re more of a homebody.
I’ve been using the Bend Anti- Aging Formula for years and years, and I really do notice a difference in my skin when I accidentally don’t replenish my supply!
Bend also recently launched it’s very own Marine Collagen, and it comes in a couple different flavors too: Strawberry, Coconut, and my favorite unflavored. I really enjoy taking collagen in my coffee every morning, so opting for the non-flavored is super ideal for me. For smoothies tho, or when mixing with my veggie greens I do love the Coconut and Strawberry Flavors. It is sweet though because it’s sweetened with Stevia, so definitely start with a smaller amount until you know what you like.
As the name suggests, marine collagen is sourced from fish. It comes from the parts of the fish that would usually be discarded during processing: scales and skin.
Marine collagen is a source of type 1 collagen. Type 1 is the most plentiful collagen in our bodies. It’s also a key building block for maintaining the elasticity and firmness of our biggest organ: the skin. Marine collagen has long been used in the cosmetic industry for its skin enhancing benefits. Its ability to provide plumpness and restore a youthful glow make it a slam dunk for beauty gurus.
Creams can only go so far. Collagen benefits for skin include elasticity, firmness and increased hydration.
AESTHETICS
Laser Hair Removal is pretty much the best thing EVER invented, and recently I just completed 6 treatments with The Ten Spot Halifax, and I am over the moon for this place. I literally tell everyone. Here’s what you need to know about the Ten Spot: it’s pay as you go, they have a cooling tip that instantly soothes the area being treated, AND they have an advanced technology that not only targets your hair color, but also considers your skin color too. It’s honestly amazing, and I saw results after the first treatment. THE FIRST TREATMENT. Find me a girl who enjoys to shave her legs. I’ll wait. lol Giving someone back the gift of time, honestly the BEST gift you can give in my opinion. I can’t say enough about this service, and my results. 2 thumbs up over here.
Other services you could consider are: micro needling (great for promoting collagen and reducing acne scars), mircoblading (for eye brows), spa services such as facials etc. I know lots of salons are running some great promotions right now 🙂 so definitely give their websites a check first!
If you’re curious about microblading and microneedling: Read our about “microblading Q&A” here, and watch our “what to expect from microneedling” video here.
HAIR CARE 101
My hair has an identity of it’s own I’ve honestly considering creating an Instagram page dedicated to it lol but all the compliments aside there’s really something to be said for (a) who styles your hair and (b) the products you use. I’ve been so lucky that my girl Kelly at Thumpers introduced me to Orbie, but because guys it is the holy grail of hair products. OMG this stuff is amazing I absolutely love the way it makes my hair look and feel. My favorites are the Oribe Texture Spray, Dry Shampoo, and Supershine Moisture Cream (all available online at Thumpers of course).
Honestly I could have ten bottles of Oribe Texture Spray and I would still want another one, if they ever discontinue this product I really don’t know what I would do. It’s literally the best! If you’re thinking about a gift for your beauty junkie I honestly don’t think you can go wrong with any of their products! <3
And if you’re hair is curly, wavy, prone to frizz the Super Shine Moisture Cream is NEXT LEVEL amazing. When I use this product my hair is so sleek I hardly even need to straighten it (which is a big deal for me). What I love is that you only need a little bit, so it would really last a long time!
VOLUME JUNKIE
On the topic of dry shampoo if you’re using it a lot it’s important to make sure your shampoo is working to get rid off all the gunk left on your hair.
I have fine hair, and with all the hot tools I use on it, I kind of put it through the ringer. Having a shampoo that helps to nourish my hair is key.
I love the Densifique Line from Kerastase that helps to strengthens and protects your hair. It also contains Hyaluronic acid, and ya’ll your scalp is your skin you need to also make sure you’re hydrating it too. You can read more about the line here.
OMG guys I LOVE this line! I used all three products the other day and damn my hair looked amazing! I used these products before heading out to the PC holiday event, and I honestly can’t tell you how many people complimented me on my hair it WAS crazy.
I’m so so happy to have discovered this shampoo because not only did my hair feel clean (which can be a struggle for me) it looked better than ever.
Also it smells so good, and that packaging?? It. is. ON. POINT. Huge love for this, and the lovely gal who suggested it for me. I don’t think we give PR people enough credit I basically unloaded all my hair problems on this girl, and she racked her Kerastase brain to find me the perfect fit. Thanks so much girl I really appreciate it I know I asked like a thousand questions, but you nailed it.
TANGLES BE GONE
UGH who’s tried for trying to brush their hair?? It’s an endless struggle especially when you have fine hair, or if you color your hair. I’ve been using the wet brush for YEARS and I literally cant live without it. It makes brushing and blow drying my hair so easy because the brushes are flexible. It’ll take a little getting used to, but it’s so much better for your hair health I promise!!
Available locally at Glamour Secrets (Halifax Shopping Centre)
GADGETS
I loveeeeeeee when tech and beauty collide! And Foreo is really breaking the mold with their beauty products. This summer I was introduced to the Foreo Luna Mini 2, and I LOVE IT!! I leave it in my shower, and just love how clean it makes my skin feel, but also that its silicone material doesn’t absorb bacteria! Which for this acne prone girl is a game changer.
The revolutionary LUNA mini 2 T-Sonic facial-cleansing brush eliminates blemish-causing impurities while remaining extremely gentle on the skin. All it takes is one minute twice a day for a fresh, clear and even-looking complexion.
The Foreo Luna Mini is available at Shoppers Drug Mart beauty Boutique.
And now they have a tooth brush MY MIND IS BLOWN!! And even one designed for sensitive teeth, I MEAN how cool is that??
A COMPLETE ORAL CARE SOLUTION Now twice as powerful, with 16 adjustable cleansing modes and up to 11,000 high-intensity pulsations per minute, ISSA 2 gives you full brushing control. Completely waterproof and ergonomically designed, with a built-in timer and a 3D flexible brush head for a healthier.
It’s really amazing the items available on the Beauty Boutique! They really have everything, from fragrances to drug store and luxe brand cosmetics ! And the best part is you earn points AND you get 5 free samples AND it’s free shipping ON ALL ORDERS!
GIFT SETS (THAT GIVE BACK)
In addition to all of the amazing holiday gift sets available at The Body Shop, they are also executing a charity initiative with bio-bridges to help restore wildlife atmospheres through purchasing their holiday products. How amazing is that?? This initiative is continuing for the month of December 2018 for all Body Shop stores across Canada and online e-commerce.
The goal of the initiative is to restore wildlife corridors within damaged landscapes that help endangered species reconnect.
Proceeds made from every purchase at The Body Shop will be donated to Body Shop partners the Woodland Trust and World Land Trust help protect and re-wild over 10 million metres of forest in the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean, England and the Caucasus Wildlife Refuge in the Ararat, Armenia.
To ensure that this is achieved, The Body Shop has committed to donate to a minimum total of £100,000 ($170,064 CAD) to the World Land Trust and £150,000 ($255,096 CAD) to the Woodland Trust respectively, regardless of total donations collected from customer transactions.
So not only are you getting amazing beauty products made from natural ingredients you’re also helping to preserve our planet!
From perfectly packaged gift sets, to classics like the body butter trio, or candy cane shower gel, The Body Shop offers so many beautiful products for any beauty junkie on your list!
WHAT’S ON MY WISH LIST??
You know the song all I want for Christmas is you?? I’m pretty sure it was written about the Dyson Supersonic Air Dryer! Because it’s legit the only thing I want lol
I have had my eye on the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer since the day it came out. My hair takes forever to dry, and my current hair dryer is super annoying because the little tip always falls off from the slightest touch and then I have to put it back on and burns my hands because it’s so hot. It’s a hot mess!
I’ve read so many reviews of the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer and that it helps dry your hair faster, and reduces frizziness I mean who wouldn’t want both of those things??
I would be happy with any of the colors, however I have seen a beautiful white one online, and this Black Purple Dyson hair dryer comes with a cute little travel case because you know once you get the Dyson you can’t go back to using a hotel dryer (I mean, the horror).
Thanks so much for tuning in for our gift guide for the beauty junkie! Stay tuned for our gift guide for nearly everyone on your list for you last minute shoppers out there!!
xx
Kayla
VIEW SOME OF OUR PREVIOUS GIFT GUIDES BELOW:
GIFT GUIDE FOR THE PERSON WHO HAS EVERYTHING: EXPERIENCE GIFTS 101 + GIVEAWAY
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