It’s that time of the year when we get to unwind, laugh with friends and family, eat delicious food and enjoy the greatest gift of all: love. On the other hand, if you’re looking to add something more tangible to your gift-giving and receiving gifts this festive season, then read on for some of the products that are on my wishlist as well as why they should be on yours.
My Festive Season Wishlist
1. The BodyShop Breathe Calming Balm
The last few years have certainly had a strong impact on our mental health and overall wellness. While we are living in a post-pandemic era, it sometimes feels like we are constantly tittering on the edge. As draining as such an existence can be, the introduction of products that can help relieve this tension and give us a moment to breathe has never been more welcome.
Why we love it
Essential oils have been proven to have beneficial effects on the body, whether that’s alleviating anxiety, encouraging sleep, or even helping with headaches.
The BodyShop Breathe Calming Balm
The new balm from The Body Shop harnesses the power of 100% natural and biodegradable eucalyptus and rosemary essential oils to provide a product that gives you a moment to take a breath and reconnect with yourself.
2. Flawless by Gabrielle Union Curl Refresher Spray
Having been a natural hair activist for a while, actress Gabrielle Union understands how her vulnerable hair can be, especially when it’s constantly being manipulated on movie sets and photo shoots.
Flawless by Gabrielle Union Curl Refresher Spray
As such, the Bring it On actress teamed up with long-time friend and celebrity hairstylist Larry Sims to launch a range of haircare products that wouldn’t require one to compromise the health of their hair, nor break the bank.
Why we love it
Natural hair requires moisture and hydration, and I understand that better than anyone. Being type 4c, my hair can struggle with staying hydrated. As such, it is important for me to invest in products that not only moisturize my hair but also provide it with the necessary nutrients to stay healthy.
The Curl Refresher Spray from Gabrielle Union’s range not only lists water as its first ingredient, which means that it’s an incredibly hydrating product, but it is also infused with Brazilian Bacuri Butter and Pequi Oil.
Extracted from the seeds of the Bacuri tree found in Brazil, Bacuri butter works well as an emollient, helping to lock in moisture into my hair. On the other hand, Pequi Oil is rich in both vitamins A and E, which not only helps to nourish the scalp but also works as an emollient, ensuring once again that my curls are hydrated and healthy.
Purchase the hairspray here or here.
3. Vitaderm Enzymatic Exfoliator
Do you exfoliate?
I hope the answer is yes, especially because exfoliating helps to clear away dead skin cells, leaving you with radiant and youthful skin. Unfortunately, some people would rather skip this important skin care step because they feel that the process is too rough on their skin. The good news, however, is that there are plenty of products out there that can gently, and effectively, rid your skin of dead skin cells.
Vitaderm Enzymatic Exfoliator
Why we love it
Vitaderm Enzymatic Exfoliator is a gentle exfoliator that uses fruit enzymes to dissolve the protein bonds between dry, dead skin cells. Fruit enzymes are a great tool for exfoliation because they do the job without irritating the skin, which is a common issue for individuals that have sensitive skin.
The fruit enzymes featured in the Vitaderm Enzymatic Exfoliator include papain (papaya extract), bromelain (pineapple extract), and witch hazel (bark) extract. These fruit enzymes not only help exfoliate the skin, but they also reduce inflammation and combat bacteria, leaving one with smooth, healthy, and happy skin.
Purchase the gentle exfoliator here.
4. Versace Dylan Purple
What’s the festive season without a festive smell?
Versace Dylan Purple
Why we love it
Launched earlier this year, this lightweight fragrance from Versace provides a floral and fruity scent. With hints of bitter orange and bergamot, which provide a citrus smell upon first contact, the fragrance then settles into an amber accord that leaves you feeling and smelling elegant.
Purchase the perfume here or here.
MAIN IMAGE CREDIT: Photo by Superkitina on Unsplash
Want to know more?
The holiday season is here, and that calls for laughs and celebrations. But for others, it’s a first harsh reminder that some people are no longer here. While it can be hard, there are ways to manage grief during the holiday season.
