The beauty news and views for this month …
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Coffee and lipstick are two essentials in our book – what are your small comforts? It’s easy to focus solely on the sequins and parties that are supposed to fill our December, but actually this can be a good time to focus on the lower-key, daily moments and quieter joys that can help to make wintery days brighter.
It reminds us of Arundhati Roy’s beautiful The God of Small Things. Treasure these things as your joy division. Finding joy in small things can encompass anything from a simple pedicure – there’s something lovely about having polished toes beneath your woolly socks – to devoting five minutes to massaging in a nourishing face oil (such as sustainable Irish brand Nunaïa’s Nourishing Radiance Serum).
SEE MORE: 10 Glossy Beauty Sets Worth Investing In This Christmas
Or an escape: one friend shared a secret spot in Wicklow where she heads for chilly swimming and bracing walks, followed by coffee at The Roundwood Stores; another dances the tango on a Saturday night. Tiny pink espresso cups from H&M (€15) are perfect for a strong brew made with feisty beans from New Kid, roasted in Donegal. More calming is chamomile tea by herbalist Freda Wolfe (€8); other blends are formulated to help sleep, ease hangovers or boost energy, so make thoughtful gifts. Nunaïa’s Nicola recommends bread-making courses at Riot Rye Bakery in Cloughjordan Eco Village, if you want to finally suss sourdough.
As for the pocket-sized pleasure that is a colourful lipstick, there are many contenders: Trinny London’s silver bullet collection is aptly called Just Joyous. For luxurious lashes, a mascara upgrade is a small quick fix. Catrice Glam & Doll False Lash mascara (€4.95) is our favourite bargain option at Penneys; pair with the Calligraph Pro eyeliner (€3.65) for maximum drama.
With a bit of time off over the break, take some time to actually use a body cream (and a pre-shower firm body brush, with upwards strokes). Skin Formulas has a lovely silky one, but it’s expensive; try the fragrant Lavender & Lemongrass body butter (ideal for sensitive skin) made by Lynn Shead in Co Waterford (€26).
When it comes to small things that matter, here are three ideas that really do. Sign up now for Pieta House’s 12 Dips of December to support this valuable charity (and feel invigorated yourself into the bargain); Check out www.hygienehub.ie and donate items. Or order a beauty box for €30, full of surprise items worth €100, and support cancer patients; www.lookgoodfeelbetter.ie
WISE WINTER SKIN
Knowing that an expert has hand-picked your skincare means you don’t waste time and money. Galway-based Dr Laura Lenihan has relaunched her website, and her online store Phare highlights carefully chosen favourites, such as Alpharet’s “super-gentle but effective” Overnight Cream from SkinBetter Science, ideal for both the face and neck. We love iS Clinical Cleansing Complex, too.
ME-TIME GIFTS
For a relaxing, restoring experience rather than “stuff”, Eden One’s treatments are top-notch; we also love the spa at Powerscourt Hotel, Enniskerry, and Oskia facials at the immaculate Spa at Dromoland Castle.
SEE MORE: 7 Brilliant Beauty Experiences That Make Great Gifts
BRUSHING UP
Many of us use the wrong toothbrush, or technique. Ask your dentist for advice: brilliant hygienist Claire Palmer (at Blackrock Dental) recommended OralB electric brushes, around the €50 mark. Swerve colourful sonic brushes (I don’t rate Ordo’s) and get one that works.
SEE MORE: Great Beauty Gadgets To Give As Gifts
SEASON STEAL
Irish-owned Hildun Beauty does a few things really well. The new lip collection lives up to the quality of the Silk to Set eyeliners (€18). The Lip Balms remind me of Hourglass ones, at half the price (€23); they’re only available in three pink/peach tones so far. They’re non-retractable, but the finish and texture is lovely.
GOLDEN WONDERS
Last-minute gift ideas: Ilia’s Lip Sketch crayon (€31, Space NK); Chanel No5 limited-edition perfume (€195, Arnotts), Vieve Lip Dew set (€37, Brown Thomas).
… and Bonne Brosse hairbrushes (from €95).
SEE MORE: Thoughtful Beauty Gifts And Experiences To Suit Everyone
