10 editors on the beauty gifts they are giving this Christmas
Recommendations from people who spend hours researching, swatching and experimenting with the best in beauty
By Letty Seah -
From value-for-money gift sets to luxe skincare splurges, here’s what ten beauty experts plan to give out to their nearest and dearest this festive season.
An afternoon at a spa is such a luxe treat and something I always look forward to. In my opinion, a great Christmas present would be a full body massage at the beautiful Auriga Spa. - Elizabeth Lee, editor-in-chief, Her World
For the beauty-obsessed person in your life who wants dewy “glazed donut” lips, this bubblegum-flavoured formula will be their pout’s new best friend. - Letty Seah, associate beauty editor, Her World
It comes in a bundle with five of their signature scents, making it the perfect travel size for those who are planning holiday trips. Pick a scent each day to brighten up your trip! - Christine Li Ya Ge, journalist, Zaobao
This targeted serum is designed to elevate, sculpt, and firm the contours of your face. - Dion Tang, associate and beauty editor, ICON Singapore
It makes for a great home decor item and you can choose from a variety of scents, great from anyone and everyone. - Doreen Tan, journalist, Uweekly
I like my little luxuries but am still an economical girl at heart. This gift set from niche fragrance house Ex Nihilo has some of the best value-for-money travel sizes I’ve seen - and not to mention truly distinctive, high-quality scents - perfect for divvying up among your clique. Keep its bestseller Fleur Narcotique for yourself, or give it to your secret best friend in the group (we all have one). - Amanda Chai, style and beauty journalist, The Straits Times
I'm a loyal La Creme devotee, and every year, I eagerly await the release of their seasonal jars. For 2023, the limited-edition La Creme is dressed up in an aquatic blue hue, reminiscent of ocean waves. Shaped just like a diamond, there’s just something so romantic and magical about the La Creme. This is the gift to get if you’re looking to spark joy in your skincare routine. - Wong Yen Leng, deputy editor, Nuyou
“You'll always have your favourite perfume with you, and it doesn't hurt that it looks so chic as well.” - Arissa Ha, senior beauty editor, Harper’s Bazaar Singapore
"I've been wearing the Sunday Shades Fizzy Fantasy Flare sunglasses for a year now, and they have become indispensable for any outdoor trip. Sunglasses are basically sunscreen for the eyes and eye area, yet many of us don't prioritise wearing them on a daily basis.
With our scorching summer all year round, these shades with a single-piece polarised lens have been pivotal in shielding my peepers from UV rays and glare, while defining my sporty casual look. Best part: they 100 per cent stay put on my face despite sweat and my non-existent nose bridge, so I don't have to adjust the shades at any point, whether I'm chasing a bus, carrying multiple bags, out as a solo parent with my kids, or all of the above. Life problems solved.
Can I just add, the shades fit my 8-year-old daughter's face pretty well, so I bought a few more designs for sharing and teaching her the importance of sun protection! Plus, the price point for Sunday Shades is palatable at $50-odd per pair. Girl math-approved." - Estelle Low, editor, The Singapore Women’s Weekly
"The holiday season inevitably puts people in a more wistful mood and this fig-based Le Labo number has been my obsession of late. Picture being all cosy and curled up, reading a book in a blanket with a cup of hot, sweetly herbaceous tea by the side - that's what this scent does for me." - Carlos Keng, features editor, female magazine