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Your Guide To Having Damage-Free Halo Extensions In Winter

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Winter may feel like a breath of fresh air after a sweaty summer, but your hair might disagree. Across Australia and New Zealand, the colder months bring dry air, indoor heating, and reduced humidity—all of which can strip moisture from your strands and leave them brittle, frizzy, or flat. Combine that with friction from scarves and knits, and suddenly your once-glossy locks are looking a little lacklustre.

But here’s the good news: you can still have voluminous, healthy-looking hair in winter—without compromising your strands. The answer? Halo hair extensions. Unlike traditional extension methods that tug, glue, or stress your natural hair (especially when it’s already vulnerable from winter dryness), Halos offer a damage-free, removable alternative that blends seamlessly and beautifully.

This guide covers everything you need to know to keep your Halo (and natural hair) looking its best through the chillier months. Let’s break it down below.

What Winter Actually Does To Your Hair

Even if winter in this part of the world doesn’t bring snowstorms, the seasonal shift still takes a toll on your hair:

  • Cooler air has less moisture, which dries out your strands.
  • Indoor heating makes it worse, causing frizz, static, and breakage.
  • Hot showers (which we all crave in winter) strip the scalp of its natural oils.
  • Knitwear and coats cause friction—especially at the nape of your neck—leading to tangles and snapping.

The result? Hair that feels dry, fragile, and a lot harder to manage.

Read Next: How The Seasons Affect Your Hair (And Halo!)

Why The Halo Is The Ultimate Winter Hair Solution

While tape-ins, clip-ins, and bonded extensions may give you the volume and length you’re craving, they also add extra stress to your hair, something your winter-weakened strands can’t afford. Halo extensions are different.

Halos win in winter because you don’t need glue, tape, or clips; they’re easy to put on and take off so there’s less friction, tangling, and damage to your natural hair; and you don’t need a lot of salon visits, making your winter hair routine a lot simpler and more affordable.

Because the Halo sits on top of your head using a discreet, invisible wire, it doesn’t pull at your roots or require any commitment. This makes it ideal for days when your hair feels particularly fragile, or you’re wearing bulky winter layers and want to avoid additional stress around your neck or crown.

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Read Next: The Top 5 Halo Hair Extension Myths Debunked

How To Keep Your Natural Hair Moisturized (For The Best Blend)

Even the best Halo extensions won’t look great if your natural hair is dry, dull, or frizzy. The key to a seamless, natural-looking blend? Hydration. Winter hair needs extra TLC—especially if you want your Halo to blend in effortlessly.

Here’s how to give your real hair the moisture it craves:

1. Use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner

Look for ingredients like:

  • Shea butter and coconut oil (deep hydration)
  • Glycerin (locks in moisture)
  • Argan oil (smooths without weighing down)

Try:

  • Olaplex No.4 & No.5 Bond Maintenance Shampoo and Conditioner: great for moisture and repair
  • MooGoo Milk Shampoo + Cream Conditioner: ideal for sensitive scalps
  • EVO The Therapist Hydrating Shampoo: A moisture-rich shampoo that adds softness and shine

2. Add a leave-in treatment

After washing, use a leave-in conditioner to lock in hydration and reduce frizz and static. This helps your natural hair mirror the smoothness of your Halo.

Our favorites include:

  • Davines OI All-in-One Milk: super hydrating, lightweight
  • Olaplex No.6 Bond Smoother: perfect for smoothing dry ends
  • Amika Hydro Rush Intense Moisture Leave In Conditioner: simple and effective with just a few sprays

3. Minimize heat styling—or always use a heat protectant

If you’re curling or straightening your Halo or natural hair, use a heat protectant like ghd Bodyguard or TRESemmé Thermal Creations. Then, keep temperatures low to prevent further dryness or breakage.

4. Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase

Like an 8-hour treatment for your hair, this reduces overnight friction and helps your hair (and skin) retain moisture. If you’ve been battling frizz for who knows how long and can’t seem to find the culprit, check your pillowcase and try a satin or silk one instead. Trust us, you’ll never go back to a regular pillowcase again!

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Read Next: The Ultimate Guide To Root Touch-Ups For Seamless Hair Extensions

Tips To Make The Most Of Your Halo In Winter

Cold weather means flatter roots, frizzier ends, and overall lack of volume. But with the right styling tips, your Halo can elevate any winter hair moment.

Soft waves

Use a wide-barrel curler or heatless styling method to create loose waves that blend your Halo and natural hair seamlessly.

Half-up looks

A half-up bun or low twisted pony looks chic, keeps hair away from scarves and coats, and hides any layering lines.

Avoid high-tension styles

Skip super-tight ponytails or buns, especially around your temples or crown—this avoids adding stress to already delicate areas.

Read Next: 5 Reasons Your Hair Is Thinning (And What To Do About It)

Don’t Forget Halo Hair Care, Too

Your natural hair isn’t the only thing that needs protection, your Halo does too. Treat your extensions like the premium investment they are.

1. Always brush before and after wearing

Use a detangling brush or wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends. This prevents matting and breakage.

2. Wash only when needed

Over-washing can dry out the hair. When it’s time, use a sulfate-free shampoo and deep conditioner. Let it air-dry completely before storing.

3. Store it properly

The Sitting Pretty Halo Travel Pouch isn’t just for trips. It’s perfect for protecting your Halo from dust, friction, and tangling between wears—even at home.

More hair tips for different seasons:

My call to legislate cosmetic claims for human dignity

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Beauty thrives on adjectives – and the cosmetics industry knows exactly how to use them.

Walk into any beauty store and you’ll see words like “nourish”, “revitalise”, “transform” and “illuminate” designed to spark emotional reactions. But more often than not, that reaction is insecurity.

In this episode of Green Beauty Conversations, host Lorraine Dallmeier argues that it’s time for a radical rethink. What if we legislated cosmetic claims not just for truthfulness and fairness, but also for human dignity?

Last week on the podcast, Lorraine spoke with Dr Theresa Callaghan, author of Help! I’m Covered in Adjectiveswho revealed how far brands go with language that overpromises.

This week, Lorraine builds on that conversation with a bold proposal: adding a seventh criterion to Europe’s cosmetic claims regulations – one that ensures beauty marketing respects our self-worth. Without it, the industry will continue to thrive on fuelling feelings of inadequacy.

If you’ve ever felt uneasy about how the beauty industry shapes the way we see ourselves, this episode is a must-listen.

Listen here

“Let’s keep the six criteria for assessing cosmetic claims because they matter. But let’s add a seventh that forces us to look in the mirror and ask: are we respecting the people we serve?” — Lorraine Dallmeier

Key takeaways:

  • Why current laws fall short: Cosmetic claims may comply with existing regulations, but they often still prey on consumer insecurities. Lorraine argues that while truthfulness, evidence, and fairness are essential, none of these safeguards actually prevent the industry from undermining human dignity.
  • The culture of inadequacy: Many of the most common cosmetic claims – such as anti-ageing or pore-refining – rely on creating or amplifying feelings of inadequacy. These messages don’t just sell products; they shape how we see ourselves and each other, and they even influence the self-perception of younger generations exposed to beauty marketing online.
  • A seventh criterion for dignity: Lorraine calls for a seventh regulatory criterion to be added to the existing six in European law: cosmetic claims must not cause harm to human dignity. While this would raise challenging questions around definition and enforcement, similar protections already exist in advertising standards, making it both possible and necessary.
  • The myth of consumer demand: The beauty industry often defends its approach by insisting it simply responds to consumer demand. But Lorraine highlights that these desires are manufactured over decades of messaging. Far from being organic, demand for collagen-boosting creams or pore-blurring serums has been strategically planted and reinforced.
  • The opportunity for change: Change could bring opportunity. Stripping back inflated language and focusing on genuine product performance can build stronger trust with consumers. If brands could no longer prey on insecurity, the industry might face a reset – one that could lead to a more honest, transparent, and ultimately healthier beauty landscape.

Thank you for joining us for this episode of the Formula Botanica Green Beauty Conversations podcast. If you enjoyed listening, please share, subscribe and review this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Youtube so that more people can enjoy the show. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.

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HEALTH BENEFITS OF MAGNESIUM THREONATE ~ THE MALE GROOMING REVIEW

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Magnesium threonate is a unique form of magnesium that is particularly beneficial for brain health. It crosses the blood-brain barrier more efficiently than other types of magnesium, leading to potentially more direct effects on brain function.

Here are some of the key health benefits associated with magnesium threonate:

1. Enhanced Cognitive Function

  • Memory and Learning: Magnesium threonate has been shown to improve synaptic plasticity (the brain’s ability to make new connections) and may enhance both short-term and long-term memory, making it beneficial for learning.
  • Neuroprotection: This form of magnesium may reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline and is being studied as a potential therapeutic for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, given its influence on cognitive processes.

2. Reduced Anxiety and Improved Mood

  • Anxiolytic Effects: Magnesium is involved in regulating neurotransmitters that influence mood. Magnesium threonate, by reaching the brain effectively, may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and promote a sense of calm.
  • Mood Stability: By supporting neurotransmitter function, magnesium threonate can also help with mood stability, reducing symptoms of mood swings or mild depression in some cases.

3. Better Sleep Quality

  • Sleep Regulation: Magnesium threonate may help in improving sleep by supporting the regulation of melatonin and promoting relaxation through the nervous system.
  • Deep, Restorative Sleep: People report improved sleep quality with magnesium threonate, which may enhance deep, restful sleep and reduce the frequency of waking up during the night.

4. Support for ADHD and Other Neurological Disorders

  • Attention and Focus: Due to its impact on synaptic plasticity, magnesium threonate may support attention and focus, making it a potential complementary approach for ADHD.
  • Neurodevelopmental Support: The enhanced cognitive benefits may also provide support for other neurological conditions, though more research is needed in these areas.

5. Bone and Muscle Health

  • Bone Density: Magnesium is essential for bone health, and while magnesium threonate is primarily used for brain health, it still provides magnesium necessary for bones and muscle.
  • Muscle Relaxation: Like other forms of magnesium, magnesium threonate can aid in muscle relaxation, which is helpful for overall physical recovery and can alleviate muscle cramps.

6. Improved Immune Function

  • Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Magnesium has anti-inflammatory properties, and magnesium threonate can contribute to immune health, particularly by helping to manage inflammation in the brain.
  • Oxidative Stress Reduction: This form of magnesium can help reduce oxidative stress, which is beneficial for the immune system and general health.

Usage and Dosage

  • Typical Dosage: Dosages usually range from 1,000 to 2,000 mg daily, but it’s best to follow specific recommendations based on individual needs and consult a healthcare provider.
  • Timing: Some people take it before bed to support sleep and relaxation, but it can be taken any time of day.

Safety and Side Effects

  • Mild Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
  • Consultation Recommended: Always consult a healthcare provider before starting magnesium threonate, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take other medications.

Magnesium threonate stands out as a supplement for those specifically looking to support cognitive health and improve mood, sleep quality, and potentially reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

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Makeup and Beauty Blog Monday Poll, Vol. 892

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So…what is the Monday Poll?

Excellent question! It isn’t, contrary to its name, an actual poll, like with little clicky buttons. It’s just a list of more or less random questions I’ve been posting on this blog every Monday morning for the past quadrillion years (since 2007).

1. Have you finished your holiday shopping?

Have I even started holiday shopping yet? LOL! I’m really behind this year.

2. How early is too early to put your pajamas on in the evenings?

I feel like anything before 4pm is a little too early because there’s technically still light out. Any time after 4 is acceptable, though, since the sun sets around 4:50-ish around these parts now.

3. Something you’d like as a stocking stuffer?

I could use a few new beauty tools, like nail clippers, tweezers and the like. It’s time for a refresh, methinks.

4. Something creative you enjoy?

Even though I haven’t been hanging out here on MBB as much, I still really enjoy the creative side of writing.

5. Do you prefer colorful holiday lights or white holiday lights?

We’ve been doing white lights in our tree for the last couple of years because that’s what I have that works, although I do appreciate colorful lights, too.

Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,

Karen

P.S. Here are the questions to copy/paste with your answers in a comment. Talk to ya soon.

1. Have you finished your holiday shopping?
2. How early is too early to put your pajamas on in the evenings?
3. Something you’d like as a stocking stuffer?
4. Something creative you enjoy?
5. Do you prefer colorful holiday lights or white holiday lights?

Growband Pro V2 Scalp Massager Review

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Using the Growband Pro V2 is straightforward:

  1. Preparation: Begin with clean, dry hair and ensure the device is clean.

  2. Placement: Position the Growband above your ears, adjusting the straps at the back of your head.

  3. Adjustment: Tighten the straps until you feel gentle, even tension across your scalp.

  4. Wear Time: Wear the device for 10 to 20 minutes daily, integrating it into relaxing activities like watching TV or reading.

  5. Consistency: Regular use, as recommended, is key to achieving optimal results.

  6. Maintenance: Clean the device regularly to ensure hygiene and durability.

Having used the Growband Pro V2 for several months, here are my observations:

  • Ease of Use: The device is straightforward to set up and use.

  • Comfort: It’s comfortable to wear, even for extended periods.

  • Visible Improvement: My hair has become noticeably thicker and healthier.

  • Increased Confidence: Improved hair quality has boosted my confidence.

1. Minoxidil:
While effective, Minoxidil can cause scalp irritation. The Growband Pro V2 offers a non-chemical alternative with minimal side effects.

2. Finasteride:
Though effective, Finasteride may cause side effects such as sexual dysfunction. The Growband Pro V2 avoids these risks entirely.

3. Hair Transplants:
Hair transplants are invasive and costly. The Growband Pro V2 provides a non-invasive, affordable option.

4. Low-Level Laser Therapy:
Laser therapy can be effective but often comes with a high price tag. The Growband Pro V2 offers similar benefits at a lower cost.

Pros:

  • Non-Invasive: Offers a non-surgical solution to hair loss.

  • Scientifically Grounded: Based on research supporting the role of scalp tension in hair loss.

  • Convenience: Easy to use at home and fits seamlessly into daily routines.

  • Minimal Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated with few side effects.

Cons:

The Growband Pro V2 stands out as a scientifically grounded, non-invasive solution for those struggling with hair loss. While results can vary, many users report positive outcomes, including improved hair texture and thickness. Its ease of use, comfort, and minimal side effects make it a compelling choice for anyone looking to enhance their hair growth regimen. If you’re seeking a reliable, user-friendly device to boost your hair health, the Growband Pro V2 is worth considering. Your future self will thank you for this investment in your grooming routine.

Order your Growband Pro here: Hairguard.com

How to make a natural cleansing balm

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Updated: 09.12.25

Cleansing balms are one of my favourite formulations to make. They’re quick, affordable, and endlessly versatile – and they’re also perfect for cold, winter days.

What I love most about balms is that, beyond their luxurious skin feel, they’re a fantastic way to experiment with anhydrous (oil-based) systems. You get to see, in real time, how each ingredient alters the texture, stability, and overall feel of your formulation. Every batch is like a mini masterclass, helping you refine your skills and grow as a formulator!

In this post, I’ll walk you through the key points to keep in mind when creating a natural cleansing balm, and show you how clays and charcoal can take your cleansing balm to the next level. Let’s get started!

Why make cleansing balms

How to make a natural cleansing balm

Natural cleansing balms are super easy and affordable to make, and they let you experiment with all kinds of exciting botanical ingredients like butters, waxes, clays and oils.

They’re also a real treat for your skin, especially during the colder winter months when it’s freezing outside, and you have central heating drying up your skin, making it feel essentially like cardboard!

Balms melt effortlessly into the skin, dissolve away makeup and dirt, and leave the skin barrier feeling cared for instead of stripped. You can learn more about the skin barrier in the post below:

Skin barrier 101: Essential guide for natural cosmetic formulators

How to avoid a greasy balm

How to make a natural cleansing balmHow to make a natural cleansing balm

Since a cleansing balm is an anhydrous product (meaning it’s oil-based), it can be challenging to achieve a nice and non-greasy skin feel. The good news is that small tweaks can completely change the user experience!

Here are my go-to strategies to achieve a non-sticky, non-greasy balm:

  1. Balance your butters with dry oils like macadamia or passion fruit seed oil.
  2. Add a touch of lecithin. You might be familiar with lecithin as an emulsifier, but in a cleansing balm, it’s great to improve the skin feel. And don’t worry, it won’t emulsify.
  3. Experiment with clays. They reduce greasiness, add creaminess, and provide gentle exfoliation.
  4. Add a powdered surfactant to avoid greasiness. You can find out more about surfactants in this comprehensive post.

Getting the texture right is where formulation becomes really fun. You’ll learn so much from simply adjusting percentages and swapping ingredients, so make sure you keep experimenting and remember to write everything down!

Adding clays or charcoal to your balms

How to make a natural cleansing balmHow to make a natural cleansing balm

Next time you’re making a balm, consider adding clays or charcoal. Why?

Firstly, they improve the skin feel, giving your balm a creamier, more luxurious texture. Secondly, they help cleanse the skin, lifting away excess dirt, sebum, and even makeup. Thirdly, when you massage the balm in, the clays or charcoal act as a gentle exfoliator.

Because an anhydrous balm is waterless, clays won’t have much of their usual absorbent or absorbent properties. That said, it does depend on the environment and how you apply it. For example, if you put the balm on your face (in a dry environment) and leave it on while relaxing in the bath, it can act like a mask, absorbing impurities too!

Important note: Clays are notoriously difficult to preserve in water-based formulas. So the best way to avoid contamination and unwanted microbes is to use clays in waterless formulations, like in cleansing balms! Just make sure that you or anyone using it doesn’t introduce water to it. Otherwise, it will need preserving.

Storage & packaging tips

How to make a natural cleansing balmHow to make a natural cleansing balm

Because cleansing balms are anhydrous, they’re easier to keep safe from microbial contamination – but only if you keep water out.

Ideally, you should package your natural cleansing balm in an airless bottle. If using a jar, store it in a dry, clean place and always keep it closed. Avoid dipping wet fingers into the balm, as this can introduce moisture and compromise its safety.

A nice trick when using a jar is to make smaller quantities, so you use the balm quickly. You can also use a small spatula to scoop the product without touching it directly. It also adds a nice, luxurious touch if you want to sell your balms!

Your turn (+ free balm formulations)!

How to make a natural cleansing balmHow to make a natural cleansing balm

Now it’s your turn! Try making your own natural cleansing balm, and don’t forget to tag us on social media using the #Formulabotanica, and to leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

If you need some inspiration, check out these free balm formulations on our blog:

How to make a simple unscented balm

How to make a nourishing hand balm

How to make a green tea and cocoa body balm stick

How to make an oat & cranberry body balm

How to make a floral beauty balm

Curious about how Formula Botanica teaches organic cosmetic formulation? Join our free sample class today and learn how to make your own natural and organic skincare from scratch, no previous experience needed.

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The Best MAC Christmas 2025 Gift Sets – Your Ultimate MAC Holiday Guide

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*Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog

Gorgeous MAC gifts for every budget

The Best MAC Christmas 2025 Gift Sets – Your Ultimate MAC Holiday Guide

If you’re searching for the best MAC Christmas gift sets, the MAC holiday collection 2025or simply the most-wanted beauty gifts this Christmas, this guide has you completely covered.

Every holiday season, MAC launches a limited-edition collection filled with incredible value kits, collector packaging, and bestselling shades, and the MAC gift sets for Christmas 2025 are some of their best yet.

This is the ultimate MAC gift guidedesigned to help you shop smart, find the perfect present for every beauty lover, and secure the hottest sets before they inevitably sell out.

Why MAC Christmas Gift Sets Are Always a Bestseller

If you’re shopping for Christmas beauty gifts 2025, makeup gifts for her, or simply want the best-value beauty sets this holiday season, MAC makes it wonderfully easy.

Here’s why their Christmas sets are so loved:

  • Exceptional value (you get far more than buying individually)
  • Iconic formulas + exclusive holiday shades
  • Perfectly giftable packaging
  • Huge range for every budget

Tier 1: Best MAC Stocking Filler Beauty Gifts

Ideal for Secret Santa, teens, friends, or anyone who loves a mini glow-up.

Surreal Shine Mini Highlighter Duo

The Best MAC Christmas 2025 Gift Sets – Surreal Shine Duo
The Best MAC Christmas 2025 Gift Sets – Surreal Shine Duo
  • Great value
  • Universally flattering

This adorable mini highlighter duo is a perfect stocking filler beauty gift. The formulas give a glossy, dewy, radiant finish, and the shades work beautifully on all skin tones. An easy win for Christmas gifting.

Best for: Teenagers, makeup beginners, glow lovers.

Blowing Air Kisses Glossy Lips Duo

The Best MAC Christmas 2025 Gift Sets – Blowing Air Kisses
The Best MAC Christmas 2025 Gift Sets – Blowing Air Kisses
  • High shine
  • Non-sticky
  • Festive packaging

If you’re shopping for makeup gifts for her that are guaranteed crowd-pleasers, this gloss duo is ideal. Super wearable, flattering shades and the classic MAC gloss texture that everyone loves.

Best for: Friends, students, everyday makeup wearers.

Tier 2: Mid-Range MAC Christmas Gifts

Perfect for mums, sisters, colleagues, or best friends.

Totally Teddy Lip Kit (Worth £98)

A complete neutral lip wardrobe

The Best MAC Christmas 2025 Gift Sets – Totally Teddy Lip Kit
The Best MAC Christmas 2025 Gift Sets – Totally Teddy Lip Kit

The MAC Teddy shade is iconic, and this Christmas lip set delivers everything a neutral lover could ever want. This is a brilliant mid-range makeup gift idea for 2025 beauty buyers.

Best for: Neutral lipstick fans, minimalists, luxury makeup lovers.

Stack & Extend Mascara Duo (Worth £47)

Viral mascara meets incredible value

The Best MAC Christmas 2025 Gift Sets – Stack & Extend Mascara Duo
The Best MAC Christmas 2025 Gift Sets – Stack & Extend Mascara Duo

MACStack is one of those mascaras that transforms lashes instantly. This duo is one of MAC’s most giftable makeup sets, especially for anyone who loves dramatic volume.

Best for: Busy mums, lash lovers, party season glam.

Tier 3: Luxury MAC Gifts – The Big Showstopper

When you want a wow moment, this is it.

MAC Must-Haves Blockbuster

The ultimate MAC Christmas gift set

The Best MAC Christmas 2025 Gift Sets – MAC Must Haves
The Best MAC Christmas 2025 Gift Sets – MAC Must Haves

The MAC blockbuster is usually the most anticipated part of the MAC Christmas collection, and the 2025 edition is no exception. Packed with bestselling products, wearable shades, and exclusive holiday packaging, this is the ultimate luxury makeup gift.

Best for: Beauty super-fans, daughters, partners, or anyone who deserves a big pamper moment.

Quick Guide: Best MAC Gifts for Every Person

Teens: Blowing Air Kisses Gloss Duo
Secret Santa: Surreal Shine Mini Highlighter Duo
Sister / Best Friend: Totally Teddy Lip Kit
Mum: Stack & Extend Mascara Duo
Beauty Addict: MAC Must-Haves Blockbuster

Don’t Wait – MAC Christmas Sets Sell Out Every Year

This is especially true for the most popular items in the MAC Christmas 2025 holiday collection. Beauty shoppers start early, and MAC holiday sets often disappear before Christmas.

If you’ve got your eye on something, grab it while it’s still available.

FAQs About MAC Christmas Gift Sets

Are MAC Christmas gift sets good value?

Yes, they’re some of the best-value beauty gifts 2025 has to offer, often worth significantly more than their retail price.

Which MAC Christmas set should I buy for 2025?

The Blockbuster is the ultimate luxury choice, while the Teddy Lip Kit is one of the most wearable everyday options.

What are the best MAC stocking filler gifts?

The Surreal Shine Highlighter Duo and the Blowing Air Kisses Glossy Lips Duo.

When does the MAC holiday collection 2025 launch?

Usually early autumn, so stock is often limited by the time December arrives.

Final Thoughts: The Best MAC Gifts for Christmas 2025

Whether you’re shopping for someone who loves glow, glam, or everyday luxury, the MAC Christmas 2025 gift sets* are some of the most reliable bestsellers in the beauty world. With incredible savings, beautiful packaging, and universally loved formulas, there’s something here for every type of gifter.

Make sure to shop early, and don’t forget to treat yourself while you’re at it.

Where to shop MAC Christmas 2025

The festive collection from MAC is available now via the link below:

Are SIRT1, SIRT3 and SIRT6 the skin’s anti-aging trinity?

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Sirtuin biology is gaining ground in the nutricosmetics and healthy aging space as researchers map how these enzymes regulate cellular structure and function in skin.

Speaking with NutraIngredients at the recent Nutra Healthspan Summit in London, Dr. Rishabh Kala, director of advanced technologies at Estée Lauder Companies, discussed emerging findings from the company’s long-running sirtuin program and how the pathways intersect with nutrition, metabolism and topical care.

Core sirtuins tied to aging hallmarks

Much of Estée Lauder’s work centers on SIRT1, SIRT3 and SIRT6, which Dr. Kala said are positioned at cellular sites relevant to transcription, mitochondrial activity and genomic maintenance.

“The reason why SIRT1, SIRT3 and SIRT6 are the major players in this space is first, because of their location in the cell,” he said. SIRT1 supports nuclear processes, SIRT3 sits within mitochondria, where age-related decline is well documented, and SIRT6 is associated with DNA stability.

According to Dr. Kala, the combined activity of the three enzymes allows researchers to examine multiple aging mechanisms at once.

“Overall when we use SIRT1, SIRT3 and SIRT6 together, it’s like holistic attack on the aging cell,” he said, adding that this activity strengthens the skin barrier and helps maintain resilience.

The company has built a substantial internal evidence base, with Dr. Kala stating, “We have been studying this for over 17 years now…it’s new to the world but not to us.”

SIRT2 draws attention for structural effects

Beyond the better-known sirtuins, SIRT2 is becoming increasingly recognized as a potential regulator of cell shape and mechanical strength. Dr. Kala described it as “a new emerging sirtuin,” noting its contribution to maintaining elongated, structured cells typical of younger skin.

“Aging skin cells become more circular, younger skin is more elongated, and cells are more bouncy,” he explained. “Older skin loses its strength and elasticity partly due to a decline in SIRT2.”

He added that in the company’s current area of study, Estée Lauder researchers have have seen the main role of SIRT2 has been shown in cell morphology.

Metabolic requirements and intervention routes

As the category expands, NAD availability remains a foundational requirement for sirtuin activity.

“For sirtuins to function, NAD is a must,” Dr. Kala said.

He noted that achieving meaningful support often involves multiple approaches, explaining that “you have to take steps for improving your metabolism, you have to rely on some supplements, but you also need topical treatments.”

Best Boxing Day Beauty Sales 2025 and New Year Bargains!

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*Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog

Best Boxing Day Beauty Sales 2024

Updated for 2025. This page will be refreshed continuously as new sales go live – bookmark now so you don’t miss the best beauty deals of the year. As always, at this time of year, there are quite a few bargains to be had, so I thought I’d put together a quick roundup of the best deals and websites to have a look at. Here are my Best Boxing Day Beauty Sales & New Year Bargains! Happy shopping!

When Do Boxing Day Beauty Sales Start?

Traditionally, Boxing Day beauty sales begin on 26 Decemberbut the retail landscape has shifted massively. Over the last few years:

  • Many brands now launch pre-Boxing Day sales from mid-December.
  • Some retailers drop early access deals on Christmas Eveand occasionally Christmas Day.
  • The biggest savings often appear on 26 Decemberespecially on gift sets and limited-edition holiday beauty items.
  • Sales frequently continue into the January Salewhich means you can still find excellent beauty deals into the first week (or two) of January.

Early Access Tips (How to Shop Before Everyone Else)

If you want the best prices and first pick of stock, early access is key. Here’s how to get in:

  • Sign up to retailer newsletters – many shops give subscribers early links, VIP access or extra discount codes.
  • Follow brands and retailers on Instagram – lots of early sale announcements, flash codes and countdowns appear on social stories.
  • Create an account + wishlists in advance – add your must-have items to your basket so you can check out instantly when the sale goes live.
  • Turn on app notifications – some stores send app users the earliest access, sometimes hours before the official launch.
  • Join loyalty schemes – beauty clubs like Space NK NDulge or Boots Advantage sometimes release early-access deals for members.

What to Expect From the Best Boxing Day Beauty Sales 2025 (Preview)

Here’s what trends are emerging for 2025:

  • Early sale timing – expect pre-sale activity from around 18–22 December.
  • Gift set clearance -deep discounts (up to 50–60% off) on Christmas kits and holiday collections.
  • High demand for luxury beauty – perfumes, skincare and limited-edition sets always sell out quickly.
  • Hair tools & gadgets on offer = Boxing Day is usually one of the best times to pick up tools like hair dryers, straighteners and curlers.
  • January extension – many retailers will roll sales into January to clear seasonal stock.

I’ll update this page daily with confirmed deals as soon as brands start dropping them.

Last Year’s Best Boxing Day Beauty Sales (and What They Suggest for 2025)

These were my top picks of the Best Boxing Day Beauty Sales last year:

  • Victoria Beckham Beauty – offered 15% off everything until the end of 2024 HERE*. They also publicised a price increase from 1 January 2025so early shopping was encouraged. This may be something we can expect for 2026, let’s see! Prediction: Expect a similar sitewide saving or a curated Boxing Day edit, especially as VBB often runs seasonal price events.
  • REESON Beauty – Gave shoppers free UK delivery on orders over £50 until 31st December HERE*
  • Space NK – Launched a major sale on 25th Decemberfeaturing up to 50% off a huge range of beauty favourites HERE*. Prediction: Space NK usually launches one of the biggest premium beauty Boxing Day events — strong half-price deals are very likely.
  • Harrods – Featured up to 50% off selected items online from Boxing Day HERE*. Prediction: Expect generous reductions on luxury fragrance, skincare and seasonal sets.
  • LOOKFANTASTIC – Ran a huge Winter Sale with up to 60% off plus bonus free gifts HERE*. Prediction: A large Winter Sale with tiered discounts and GWP bonuses is extremely likely.
  • Medic8 – Offered up to 25% off a curated selection of skincare HERE*. Prediction: Expect curated savings on bestselling serums, retinoids and holiday kits.
  • Dyson -Discounted hero tools, including the Supersonic and Airwrap HERE*. Prediction: Rare deals on premium tools often reappear — keep an eye on bundle pricing.
  • Elemis Reduced all Christmas gift sets by 25% HERE*. Prediction: Gift set reductions almost always return, usually 20–30% off.
  • Shiseido – Introduced 30% off selected products including the 2024 Holiday Collection HERE*. Prediction: Seasonal collections are often discounted again post-Christmas.
  • Clarins – Gave up to 40% off both gift sets and bestsellers HERE*. Prediction: Expect strong savings on skincare and classic gift bundles.
  • NARS – Reduced the Holiday Collection by 30% and offered 40% off last-chance items HERE*. Prediction: NARS typically reduces seasonal lines — similar offers are likely.
  • Cowshed – Offered up to 30% off across bath, body and home HERE*. Prediction: Bath, body and home gift savings expected again.
  • The sea – Ran generous gift-with-purchase deals using code INDULGE HERE*. Prediction: La Mer frequently offers Boxing Day GWPs — very likely to return.
  • Boots – Announced its Biggest Ever Salewith up to 50% off thousands of products HERE*. Prediction: Boots almost always runs a huge multi-brand sale — expect extensive reductions.
  • Bobbi Brown – Provided 33% off the Christmas Collection and savings on makeup and skincare (23 Dec–6 Jan) HERE*. Prediction: Holiday palettes and sets often get substantial Boxing Day discounts.
  • Glossier – Discounted limited items by up to 40% while stock lasted HERE*. Prediction: Expect end-of-year clearance on selected items.
  • Selfridges – Dropped prices across top beauty brands, with Advent Calendars heavily reduced HERE*. Prediction: Clearance on calendars and luxury gifting is highly likely.
  • Harvey Nichols – Offered up to 30% off beauty HERE*. Prediction: Premium reductions should reappear across makeup and skincare.
  • Sephora UK – Updated deals frequently, including 50% off selected favourites HERE*. Prediction: Expect fast-changing offers and strong value bundles.
  • Cult Beauty – Ran a sale of up to 50% offplus 15% + extra 5% with code CBAFF15 HERE*. Prediction: Tiered discounts + influencer codes are very likely.
  • Molton Brown – Featured up to 30% off in the Winter Sale HERE*. Prediction: Always strong Boxing Day performers — festive sets should be well discounted again.
  • The White Company – Reduced selected lines by up to 50% HERE*. Prediction: Seasonal scents and gifting likely to be reduced.
  • Clinique – Discounted seasonal beauty sets and kits HERE*. Prediction: Expect reductions on Christmas kits and skincare trios.
  • Penhaligon’s – Ran up to 50% off more has GWP on £120+ using code GIFTSET HERE*. Prediction: Fragrance sets and niche scents often receive similar treatment.
  • Armani Beauty – Offered 20% off makeup, fragrance and gifting HERE*. Prediction: Prestige gifting usually gets post-Christmas reductions.
  • Hearst Magazines – Launched the January sale early with up to 72% off HERE*. Prediction: Annual subscription offers commonly return.
  • NET-A-PORTER – Included beauty in its seasonal sale, with 30% off selected premium items HERE.* Prediction: Expect premium skincare and tools to feature again.
  • Face the Future – Reduced favourites by up to 40% HERE*. Prediction: Big skincare reductions are typically repeated.
  • Jo Malone London – Offered a free 9ml fragrance with £90+ spend HERE*. Prediction: Jo Malone almost always runs GWP incentives rather than straight discounts.
  • Charlotte Tilbury – Discounted selected products by up to 30%auto-applied at checkout HERE.* Prediction: Selected kits and seasonal bundles usually see strong reductions.
  • Fenwick – Dropped up to 50% off selected beauty lines HERE*. Prediction: Likely to return with premium markdowns.
  • MAC – Ran up to 50% off across seasonal and core lines HERE*. Prediction: Holiday collections and vaults typically get big cuts.
  • Kiehl’s – Reduced selected skincare by 30% HERE*. Prediction: Expect curated skincare savings.
  • YSL Beauty – Offered 30% off gifting HERE*. Prediction: Holiday gift boxes are usually heavily reduced.
  • The Occitane – Cut prices by up to 50% on many seasonal favourites HERE*. Prediction: Seasonal bodycare and gifting should be discounted again.
  • Benefit – Launched 50% off popular products and sets HERE*. Prediction: Popular sets and minis often return at similar prices.
  • Liberty – Featured impressive savings across niche and premium beauty brands HERE*. Prediction: Specialist and premium brands likely to feature again.
  • Escentual – Gave up to 60% off gift sets plus 22% off RRP sitewide HERE*. Prediction: High-value gift-set savings are very likely.
  • ESPA – Reduced everything by up to 50% plus an extra 5% off with ESPAX5 HERE*. Prediction: ESPA typically runs deep end-of-year discounts.
  • Aveda – Enjoy an extra 33% off all gift sets, plus sitewide discounts HERE*
  • GHD – Offered up to 20% off selected styling tools HERE*. Prediction: Boxing Day is a key time for GHD offers — similar reductions likely.

I will be updating this post as soon as the sales go live. so stay tuned and check the links for early access.

Best Boxing Day Beauty Sales Advent Calendar Discounts

The chances of scooping a Beauty Advent Calendar at a fraction of the cost is high, so make sure you check Best Beauty Advent Calendars 2025 – To Buy Now.

Blowout Babe Energy

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If you’re dreaming of that bouncy, polished blowout look, but want to skip the damage and drama, say hello to your new bestie: Sitting Pretty Halo Extensions!! These luxe, clip free extensions are not only ridiculously easy to pop in, but they blend so flawlessly, nobody will know it’s not all yours (we won’t tell if you won’t ).

And the best part? Because they’re 100% ProGrade Remy Hair, you can style them just like your own hair, even for a bombshell blowout that lasts for days! Here’s how to get that full volume, soft movement blowout using your halo and a few pro stylist tricks to fake the roller set of your dreams!!!

What You’ll Need for the Perfect Blowout Look

Before you start, gather these essentials:

  • Sitting Pretty Halo Extension (100% Remy human hair)

  • 1½” to 2” curling iron

  • Lightweight heat protectant

  • Volumizing spray or mousse

  • Creaseless clips

  • Boar bristle brush

  • Finishing serum or shine mist

Step 1: Start with Clean, Dry Hair

Make sure your natural hair is clean and prepped with a heat protectant and completely dried.

💫 Pro time-saving tip: Your halo can be styled off the head first, then blended into your natural hair!

Step 2: Fake a Roller Set (Without the Rollers!)

This step is all about mimicking that classic blowout volume:

  • Use a 1½” or 2” curling iron. Using this bigger size gives you that blown out, airy volume without creating tight curls!!! Take wide sections of the halo hair.
  • Use low to medium heat, especially at the ends. You don’t want crunchy curls, just that round brush, bounce back effect.
  • Curl the hair by wrapping the ends under to mimic the look of a Velcro roller set.
  • Gently remove the curling iron and secure each curl with a creaseless clip while it cools to lock in shape and volume.
  • Repeat the same process with your natural hair.

Pro max volume tip: curl the “Mohawk” section of your hair up and back and secure with a clip to create the most volume!

Step 3: Pop in your Halo Extension

Once the curls have cooled:

  • Remove clips from your natural hair and halo

  • Place the halo extension 1–1.5 inches behind your hairline

  • Use the tail of a comb to pull natural hair over the wire for a seamless blend

Step 4: Blend and Brush for a Polished Finish

Here’s where the magic happens:

  • If you’re using a volumizing or texturizing spray, now’s the time!!! Lightly spray throughout the hair.

  • Use a boar bristle brush to gently brush through the curls. This softens the shape, blends your natural hair with the halo, and gives your ends that polished, bouncy finish. Avoid brushing too aggressively!!! Think “fluffy and pretty,” not “flat and frizzy.

Pro tip: the more you brush through the curl the looser and softer the wave gets!

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch

Final Blowout Styling Tips

  • Avoid too much heat on the endsespecially on your halo. The hair is real, but treating it gently helps it last longer and keeps the bounce looking natural!!!

  • Want more root lift? On damp hair, Apply mousse or root lifting spray along with your heat protectant!! Use Velcro rollers or a round brush and dryer at your crown, then blend with your halo afterward.

  • Always let curls cool before brushing for the longest lasting blowout vibes.

💓 Real Talk: Blowout Energy Without the Damage

You don’t need hours in the salon to feel glam. With the Sitting Pretty Halo and a few pro techniques, you can serve blowout goddess energy anytime and right from home. It’s the volume, bounce, and polish you love, without the damage or commitment

Ready to bring the bounce? Your dream blowout is just a halo away. 💫