Buying gifts for family and friends is an annual dilemma. Most of us will put it off until the last minute, like those desperate people you see having anxiety attacks on Grafton Street every Christmas Eve. This is not an ideal approach. Loving or liking someone doesn't necessarily mean knowing precisely what they would love to find under the Christmas tree.
If you’re stuck, consider this prescribed list a foolproof method of spoofing your way through Christmas shopping. Beauty products make universally reliable gifts; they’re luxuriant enough to feel special, but available at any budget. Provided you spend as much as you can afford on gifts for your mammy and your partner, you should make it through the day unscathed. There is nothing in this selection that could disappoint.
The office Secret Santa
L'Occitane La Flamme Marie Claire Candle (€10) One hundred per cent of the profits from each sale of this verbena-scented candle go to three women's charities worldwide. All three focus on educating women and girls, providing them with skills and supporting them in setting up small businesses. NEOM A Moment of Calm Stocking Filler (€18) If your Secret Santa budget stretches to €20, opt for this fragrant, calming mini bath oil and hand cream combination. You can buy chocolate with the change.
The mammy
Chanel Limited Edition No 5 Oil (€80) The texture is non-greasy perfection, the frosted glass bottle is a dream on any nightstand, and that iconic fragrance is intense and lasting enough to wear alone. This is a guaranteed hit with any Irish mammy.
ghd Copper Flight Gift Set (€59) A light, powerful little hairdryer that will blast the frizz away both at home and on her travels.
The sister
Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick Charms (€40) These mini lipsticks sell out every year. The quality is fantastic, and they're irresistibly cute. Your sister will be nice to you for at least a week if you buy her these.
Boots Soap & Glory The Whole Glam Lot (€80) Childhood Christmas will come rocketing back with this bounteous little case of loot. For a sister who deserves some relaxation.
The daddy
Kiehl's Energizing Men's Kit (€78) Even the most intransigent father can't resist Kiehl's skincare. It's never too late to start caring for skin.
Bulldog Skincare Set for Men (€20) An affordable alternative to Kiehl's, Bulldog is equally fuss-free and universally liked. This contains a moisturiser, scrub and facial wash – all his bases are covered.
The brother
John Varvatos Dark Rebel Rider (€61 for 75mls) This fragrance is captivatingly woody, with notes of leather and amber. Ideal for a brother who likes fragrances of the very masculine variety.
Brisk Beard Oil (€9.99) There's scarcely an unbearded man left in Ireland. Beards need care like any other hair. Try Brisk's Tea Tree or Citrus Beard Oils for freshness and pliability.
The teen
Kat Von D Lock-It Liquid Foundation (€34) This offers high coverage and comes in shades for everyone. The edgy packaging will satisfy lovers of grunge and the formula covers even the worst spot adolescence can hurl at you.
Urban Decay Naked Ultimate Basics Palette (€47) There is no cosmetic lover of any age who won't clutch this palette to their heart while cooing softly. This isn't just a perfect gift for teens – anyone would love it – but they'll be impressed you got them just what they wanted.
The spouse/partner
Jo Malone London Orange Bitters Cologne (€114) If you know she likes beauty but fear buying the wrong thing, this is the fragrance of the season and a foolproof choice. It's a wonderfully warm, rich citrus with a sharp bite that is still somehow soft when it fills the air. It is unisex and ageless.
L'Occitane Sophisticated Cedrat Collection (€68) This is a safe bet if he likes a crisp, slightly sparkling fragrance as opposed to a heavier one. The fragrance is a delicious woody citrus and the box contains the eau de toilette, shower gel, aftershave and soap in a beautiful box.
