Ah, Christmas. Time with family, movies in bed, and hot chocolate by the fireplace – the festive season could be pure bliss – in theory. Instead, we’ve got endless amounts of planning, parties, and present-buying to worry about – decidedly un-bliss, if you ask us. Not to mention, there’s the prepping of yourself to think about – after all, what’s Christmas without a bit of self-care, a whole lot of treating yourself, and a good old dose of *glam*.
If you can’t quite bring yourself to start another lot of festive planning – we feel you. Luckily, when it comes to hair & beauty – we’ve got the ultimate guide. No more last-minute dashes to the (fully booked) barbers, or trying to apply falsies whilst roasting the potatoes. Nope, this year you’ll know exactly what to book, and when to book for. Think of it as an early Christmas present – from us, to you. You’re welcome.
By Beth
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1 18-20 days to goBeen collecting inspo for a new winter hair colour for weeks? Now’s the time to finally take the plunge and start booking. Colouring can take a while (around 2-4 hours depending on the length and thickness of your hair) – so it’s well worth getting your booking in early before your fave salon fills up. Plus, if you don’t completely love it, you’ll have plenty of time for a touch-up.
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2 14-16 days to go
Your skin could use some extra love this month (stress, sugar, and booze – we’re looking at you). A good facial can be just the ticket for radiant holiday skin – not to mention, a much-needed dose of mid-madness pampering. Results are at their best 10-15 days post-facial, so book yours for around a fortnight before the big day. Glowing skin & the perfect canvas for any party season make-up *looks*.
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3 10-12 days to go
We’re halfway through the month, which means we’re well into the December stress of detangling Christmas lights and ticking off the last-min presents from your list. Essentially, our bodies and minds could do with a bit of a boost. A relaxing massage can relieve stress, improve mood and sleep, and have you feeling refreshed and revitalised – enough to get you through the rest of the month. Plus, it can help detox some of those pesky waste products (read: alcohol) from your body.
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4 9 days to go
Split ends? Quick fringe trim? Totally new look? Around a week and a half before Christmas is the perfect time for a haircut freshen up. You’ll still have that fresh trim feeling, but you’ll also have had enough time to get used to look and feel (we’ve all felt that post-haircut panic when you realise you actually have no idea how to style those brand new bangs – no thank you).
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5 6 days to go
There’s nothing better than the *I woke up like this* feeling of perfect lashes and groomed brows – especially when those Christmas hangovers are starting to catch up with you. Book your appointment for around a week before Christmas – this will mean they’ll last through Christmas to New Years Eve. For a more natural brow look, a tint and wax is a great go-to. If you’re a fan of soap brows – brow lamination is the semi-permanent alternative. For lashes, a lash lift and tint is perfect for those who want to enhance their natural lashes, and eyelash extensions are ideal for a more glam look. The choice is yours – either way, it’s less time applying makeup in the morning, and more time sleeping off those mulled wines. Bliss.
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6 5-7 days to go
For silky smooth skin (if you’re into that) – now’s the best time to book. Whether you opt for waxing, sugaring, or threading – any irritation will have had plenty of time to dissipate by your sequin dress bare-leg debut. Plus, you’ll have enough time to leave it a few days before your pre-Christmas spray tan. If you are heading for a wax – make sure to read this first to make it as pain-free as possible.
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7 3-5 days to go
Now you’re ready for a few finishing touches.
We’ve been waiting on this moment more impatiently than Christmas itself – it’s time for the festive mani (!!) Gel polish will ensure your digits will be chip-free and flawless, and should stay that way into the new year. And if you’re into the more ‘au naturel’ look? A classic mani without polish is the perfect way to feel clean and refined (and more importantly – pampered) for the big day.
As for a trip to the barbers – now’s also the best time. A fresh beard trim will give you a sharp look, ready for the Christmas (and pre-Christmas) celebrations.
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8 1 day to go
You’ve got your colour and cut sorted – so now it’s time for the icing on the cake (or rather, the angel on the Christmas tree) – a good ol’ salon-fresh blow dry. A classic bouncy blow dry, subtle waves, or an uber glam Hollywood style – ask your hairdresser to pin the style up so that it lasts as long a possible (from your Christmas eve pub trip right through to your turkey and stuffing). Merry Christmas! ?✨
With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover amazing salons in your area.
