The year is winding down and the holidays are almost upon us!  Not going to lie … this is easily my all time FAVOURITE time of the year!  What’s not to love … warm weather, time to relax, quality time with family and friends, barbecues, beach, pool … I could go on!

I love soaking up the Christmas spirit and decorating the house ready for Christmas.  I love seeing the lights twinkling and the kids smiling!  And seriously, who doesn’t love a daggy Christmas movie!  Elf is my all time favourite and we watch it without fail every Christmas Eve.

I’ve pretty much finished all my Christmas shopping … I like to be ready and organised for the kids so that I can take time to think about little gifts for my family and friends.

I know how hard it can be to decide on the perfect gift for some people but I figure those of you in my age group, and even those a little younger and older, then makeup and skin care products are a pretty good match!  There are so many girls who simply won’t spend on themselves so it’s a good way to get something they’d like but never actually buy themselves!  Did that even make sense???  I know what I’m trying to say, so I hope you do too!

Anyway, I’ve compiled a list of great buy make up and skin care that’s easily purchased online!

Husbands take note – we love to be spoiled!

Hope these suggestions help a little.  I know that I’d be happy receiving any of them!

With everything priced at under $65 I think there’s something for everyone!!!

1. STILA – Double-Ended Blending Sponge – $17  : I have this and I love it!  Saves my hands being covered in foundation and leaves your skin looking so much smoother.

2. SMASHBOX – Studio Skin Face Shaping Foundation Stick – $61 : I absolutely love this stick.  The foundation end is perfection under your eyes and around your nose, while the contour end adds a little more definition; particularly to those of us in our 40’s who lack the shape we once had!  Combined with the Stila blending sponge this is a perfect practical gift for the girl who likely won’t spend much on herself!

3. TOO FACED – The Sweet Smell of Christmas – long wear lipsticks – $36 : Not only do these little beauties plump your lips but they smell freaking AMAZING!! And such a bargain!

4. TOO FACED – Natural Eyes Neutral Eye Shadow Collection – $55 : This is perfect for those of us who like to look natural (let’s face it bright blue just doesn’t work in your 40’s … actually, not sure it ever works) and for only $55 it’s such a great buy!

5. SOAP & GLORY – Glammed Total – $35 : All I can say to this is OMG!!!  I want this gift pack for myself!  It’s got everything from body creams and washes to complexion-boosting masks! And oh so affordable!

6. SMASHBOX – Holidaze Primer Trio Kit – $32 : I know a lot of girls out there, particularly those of us who are mums, wouldn’t buy this for themselves.  That’s what makes it even better as a gift!  There’s no point giving someone something they’ll likely get themselves and at only $32 this primer set is fabulous value!

7. SOAP & GLORY – Hands Yule Love – $14 : Let’s not kid ourselves we use our hands more than anything else and yet they usually get the least amount of attention.  This gorgeous set of hand creams is not only luxurious but the smells are to die for!!! And seriously, under $15 WTF?

8. SOL DE JANEIRO – Bum Bum Carnaval Magic – $55 : Ass cream!!!!  OMG!!!! Who doesn’t want some sweet smelling butt cream … it can actually be used all over your body – legs, arms, belly!!! And this gorgeous gift set even comes with a mist that you can spray on your body, hair, lingerie … anywhere!  As well as a delicious smelling lip butter!  This set usually sells for $89 but is currently on sale for only $55.

9. CLINIQUE – Nightime TLC – $55 : I love these products!  Such a great gift pack and so good for your skin!  It includes the following: * Take The Day Off Makeup Remover for lids, lashes & lips * Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm for dry skin * Pep-Start Eye Cream * Pep-Start Pout Restoring Night Mask.

10. MECCA MAX – All or Nothing Full Face Palette – $55 : I don’t  know about anyone else but I am frightful to look at in the morning but with this set you’re ready in under 10 minutes – easy!!! The palette is jam packed with everything required to help get your face from that God awful morning look to hot to trot ready to smash the day! There’s 20 colourful eyeshadows in a mix of metallics and mattes, 1 bronzer, 1 illuminator and 2 blushes, a lip gloss and an eyeliner. POW!!!  There’s even a mirror, so it’s perfect for travel.

All products can be found at MECCA.COM.AU

Don’t forget your free samples when you check out!