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Travel skincare guide: What to pack to protect your skin on holiday

Travel skincare guide: What to pack to protect your skin on holiday

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Most of us spend weeks planning what to wear on holiday but barely give a second thought to what goes into our toiletry bag. To save space, some just rely on random skincare samples.

It may seem like a harmless shortcut, but your skin could end up paying the price.

Travel can be surprisingly stressful for your skin. Hours spent in the dry cabin air, followed by sudden changes in temperature, humidity and even altitude, can throw your skin barrier off balance. Introducing unfamiliar skincare products at the same time only increases the chances of irritation, breakouts or allergic reactions.

“Deviating from our usual skincare routine when travelling could increase the severity of irritation or allergies due to the impaired recovery and changes to the skin barrier during travel,” said Dr Rachel Ho, medical director of The Skin Longevity Clinic.

While you may not notice much of a difference on a short city break, the effects become more obvious during longer trips or holidays in destinations with extreme climates. Whether you’re heading to a snowy mountain retreat, a tropical island or a high-altitude adventure, here’s how to keep your skin comfortable and healthy throughout your trip.

PACK SMARTER, NOT MORE

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Long flights from the UAE? 7 skincare essentials for holiday travel, 2025

Long flights from the UAE? 7 skincare essentials for holiday travel, 2025

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Flying out of the UAE for the Christmas holidays? Before you board that long-haul flight armed with your neck pillow and Netflix downloads, let’s talk skincare. Nothing sabotages your holiday glow faster than recycled cabin air, humidity and eight hours of pretending you can sleep upright. So, even if you’re jetting to snowy Europe or chasing warmer skies, your skin deserves first-class treatment. From hydrating serums to mid-flight refreshers, these are the 7 skincare essentials that will keep you looking dewy, rested and absolutely unbothered when you touch down. Consider this your inflight beauty survival kit for 2025.

So, be prepared with these skincare essentials, and get them delivered to you as early as tomorrow with a Prime membership.

1) Best Facial Mist: Avene Thermal Spring Water

When the cabin air starts stealing every drop of moisture from your skin, this is the mist you want on standby. The 1.6 oz travel-friendly bottle slips easily into your carry-on, ready to revive your face with a wave of hydration at 30,000 feet.

Made with pure thermal spring water from France’s Cévennes Mountains, it’s naturally packed with calming minerals. If your skin turns red, itchy, or Sahara-dry mid-flight, this soothing spritz brings instant relief — especially for sensitive, easily irritated skin.

2) Best Lotion: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Lotion

No doubt, traveling can take a toll on your skin, especially your body—which often gets overlooked in your flight skincare routine. Enter the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Lotion Ultralight, which helps keeping your skin hydrated, smooth, and fresh even after hours in dry cabin air.

Formulated with skin-quenching glycerine and hyaluronic acid, this cream draws in moisture and seals it in, ideal for fighting off tight, flaky skin during and after travel. Its gel texture absorbs instantly, so you won’t feel greasy in your seat or during a layover.

3) Best Lip Balm: WishCare Ceramide Lip Balm

Say hello to WishCare Ceramide Lip Balm with SPF 50 PA+++, your must-have inflight lip saviour. This compact 5 g tube fits perfectly in your carry-on, ready to protect and pamper lips through dry cabin air and holiday sunshine. Rich ceramides lock in moisture, preventing the flakiness and cracking that long flights love to bring. Meanwhile, Kojic Acid and Niacinamide help fade dark pigmentation and even out tone, so your lips look fresh when you land. With high-strength SPF 50 PA+++, it shields against UVA/UVB rays — essential even at altitude. Hydrating, protective and perfect for jetsetters on the go.

4) Best for Dry Skin: Galderma Cetaphil Dry Skin Combo

The Galderma Cetaphil Dry Skin Combo is a solid companion for flights. The Gentle Skin Cleanser sweeps away impurities without stealing moisture, while the hydrating cream pampers dry hands, elbows, or any tight spots at 30,000 feet. Finish with the lightweight SPF cream for broad-spectrum sun protection—perfect for landing in sunny destinations or walking through glass-walled airports. Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and travel-ready, this trio keeps your skin calm, soft, and fully protected, ensuring you touch down looking fresh no matter how long the flight.

5) Best Hydrating Serum: Cerave Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid

If your skin rebelled every time cabin air turned dry and tight, the CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum is what you need. Lightweight yet powerful, this serum delivers a deep drink of moisture exactly where your skin needs it most. Hyaluronic acid attracts and holds water like a magnet, while a trio of essential ceramides helps reinforce your skin’s protective barrier — critical when you’re battling recycled air at 30,000 feet. Non‑comedogenic, fragrance‑free and gentle enough for sensitive skin, it layers beautifully under moisturiser or SPF. Quick to absorb and easy to pack, it’s a must‑have for hydrated, plump skin from takeoff to touchdown.

6) Best Eye Cream: La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Eye Cream

If your eyes are the first to announce a long flight with puffiness, dark circles or tiredness, the La Roche‑Posay Pigmentclar Eye Cream deserves a spot in your carry‑on. This lightweight formula targets darkness and uneven tone around the eyes — perfect for combatting the effects of dry cabin air and jet lag. Caffeine helps refresh puffed‑up under‑eyes, while L‑Dopa and light‑reflecting pigments brighten and improve overall radiance. Infused with soothing thermal spring water, it’s gentle on sensitive skin and glides on easily under makeup or alone. Apply before takeoff and again on landing for eyes that look rested, not worn‑out.

7) Bioderma Photoderm sunscreen

Whether you’re sitting by a plane window or landing in full sun, Bioderma Photoderm MAX Aquafluide SPF 50+ is the perfect sunscreen to have on hand. This lightweight, dry-touch formula offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without leaving a greasy or heavy feel—ideal for travel. The golden tint provides a subtle, natural-looking glow, evening out your skin tone while keeping it protected. Designed for all skin types, it’s non-comedogenic, water-resistant, and absorbs fast—so you can apply it easily during or after your flight without disrupting your skincare or makeup. At 40 ml, it’s perfectly sized for your carry-on, making it a travel skincare essential, especially for sunny destinations or UV exposure through airplane windows.

Lakshana is an entertainment and lifestyle journalist with over a decade of experience. She covers a wide range of stories—from community and health to mental health and inspiring people features.

A passionate K-pop enthusiast, she also enjoys exploring the cultural impact of music and fandoms through her writing.

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5 Holiday 2025 Makeup Trends That Bring Maximum Glam

5 Holiday 2025 Makeup Trends That Bring Maximum Glam

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The Target in Soho was the hardest door in New York City this week — and I’m only being a little facetious. Olivia Ponton, Evan Mock, Paloma Elsesser, and Sai De Silva were all milling around the newly redesigned store, where the entrance corridor is now a walk-through bullseye. That’s where I ran into the guest of the evening: Katie Jane Hughes, whose curated beauty edit was displayed front and center on the first floor.

If anyone was going to handpick a lineup of drugstore-priced staples, it’s Hughes. The celebrity makeup artist — known for her work with Dua Lipa and affectionately dubbed “the internet’s go-to makeup artist” — has built a loyal following on Instagram and TikTok by sharing tutorials and tricks (like pinpoint shading) and reminding everyone that technique matters more than trends.

Still, Hughes — both online and in her own aesthetic — has found a way to blend the two, and her look that night proved it. She rocked a monochrome “toasted” moment with brown eyeshadow, a matching lip, and a warm wash of blush. Admittedly, saying “toasted makeup” out loud couldn’t be more embarrassing — but Hughes just laughed. “Listen, nothing is new anymore,” she said. “Remember the blueberry milk nail trend? It’s just baby blue. But if it gets someone excited to try something new when they normally only wear beige, then I think it’s amazing.”

Her Target beauty edit has the same effect. It’s packed with products that might nudge you outside your comfort zone or help you double down on the classics — like the Real Techniques brush and sponge set; Prequel’s Nourishing Oil Cleanser for the skin care-obsessed; e.l.f.’s viral Halo Glow Blush; and Maybelline’s Serum Lipstick in 005, her pick for “the perfect peachy tone.”

Below, Hughes shares her picks of the buzziest holiday makeup trends of the season — all of which you can pull off with the products above.

1Tightlining & Micro Wings

“We’re moving into a more delicate, whispery wing. The trick is to keep it really close to the lash line as opposed to committing to anything too big.”

2Frosty Pink Monochrome

“It’s the best color ever. Put it everywhere — on the eyes, lips, Cupid’s bow, cheeks. I’m obsessed. Anything shimmery or frosty just looks opulent.”

3The New Red Lip

“Red lips have gotten an update in that they’re more sheer than opaque or matte. It feels a bit like you’ve put a powder eyeshadow on your lips, buffed it in, and layered clear balm over the top. It’s not a wet or dry look. It’s lined with a contour pen — almost like a Korean-kissed, powdery pout.”

4“Cinnamon Girl” Tones

“Beiges, browns, and berries — as opposed to bright red — can be more versatile, especially if you think about every product in your makeup bag as multi-use. If you’ve got an eyebrow pencil with two ends, use it as your eyeliner. If you’ve got a blush that’s cream, use it on your lips. If you’ve got an eyebrow pencil that works with your skin tone, use it as a lip liner.”

5Satin Skin

“2016 makeup is coming back, but in a more elevated way. The skin isn’t as heavy. Maybe the eye and lip are bold, but the complexion has an editorial finish. Getting that satin skin really starts with the prep. Exfoliate with a face cloth — literally go downstairs at Target and buy a five-pack of any thin washcloth that has a little bit of abrasion to it. Your skin is going to take the makeup like butter.”

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wellness

Say Happy Holiday With These Health And Wellness Gifts

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by Ahsan Washington

December 11, 2025

The perfect gifts for people who want to improve their physical and mental wellness

Who says the holiday season isn’t the perfect time to choose gifts that enhance mental and physical health along with spiritual well-being? During the holiday season, a significant amount of people experience depression and practice poor habits around diet and exercise.

The following health and wellness brands fuse purposeful approaches with plant-based solutions and self-care practices to create perfect gifts for people who want to improve their physical and mental wellness, and enhance their everyday health.

Golde

The wellness and beauty brand Golde started in 2017, to deliver clean vegan latte blends and matcha powders along with skincare products that nourish daily self-care routines. Golde started in a Brooklyn apartment and has grown steadily to achieve national recognition. Products are sold through online platforms, as well as in expanded retail and wellness locations. Golde serves people who want complete wellness through nutritional support and skin health and lifestyle routines.

Organic Olivia

The herbal supplement brand Organic Olivia combines traditional plant-based healing methods with modern wellness formats. Its herbal support addresses stress, gut health, and hormone balance. Organic Olivia sells its products through online platforms and are a perfect gift for people who want to achieve holistic health.

The Honey Pot

The Honey Pot provides a range of plant-based feminine care products including gentle pH-balanced washes and wipes along with tampons, pads and intimate-care items. The Honey Pot makes a considerate wellness gift because it focuses on bodily care and comfort. The Honey Pot operates online and through major retailers that sell women’s personal care products.

Movita Organics

Movita Organics provides a clean whole-food multivitamin and beauty supplement through its brand. The beauty-vitamin blends from Movita Organics support internal wellness while enhancing your hair, skin and nail health. The brand operates actively and sells its supplements through 30-day supplement bottles available for online purchase. Movita Organics serves as the perfect option for people who want an easy daily nutritional boost to support their hair, skin and nail health.

Plant Apothecary

Plant Apothecary sells organic body care and aromatherapy products with minimalist design and mood-boosting ingredients for customers who want gifts that enhance both body care and mood. The brand exists within modern wellness-care trends and sells through online platforms to customers who practice aromatherapy, self-care rituals or prefer minimalist body care products.

Homebody

The luxury bath-soak and self-care ritual brand Homebody combines botanicals with wellness-focused ingredients. Homebody was developed for a person who uses bath therapy to recover from serious injury. The brand provides deep relaxation and healing experiences that can help reduce holiday stress. Homebody products are sold through its website and retail stores, and make an ideal present for people who want to rest and relax or reset their minds.

Alaffia

Alaffia functions as a fair-trade enterprise to produce personal care products using West African shea and ethically sourced ingredients. Through its commitment to community empowerment and fair trade practices, the wellness gifts have extra ethical value. Alaffia sells its products on online platforms. People who prioritize ethical sourcing together with community support and clean personal care will find these products to be a meaningful selection.

Iyoba

Iyoba is a small-batch natural skincare and wellness brand that creates handmade soaps along with body butters and hair oils and bath products. The brand delivers personal care items which are non-toxic and environmentally sustainable, while focusing on holistic health and clean beauty standards. Customers can purchase Iyoba’s soaps and bath oils and body butters and hair/body care products from Iyoba’s official website. 

Body Complete RX

The brand Body Complete RX specializes in plant-based wellness supplements that include products designed to balance hormones, support metabolism and manage weight. The brand serves people who want internal wellness assistance for hormonal and metabolic health as an alternative to topical treatments.

SuperGut

The fiber-based wellness product line SuperGut promotes gut health together with digestion, satiety and metabolic function. The product makes an ideal gift for people who focus on improving their gut and digestive health. The product belongs to the modern wellness supplement market and can be purchased through online platforms.

PEAK + VALLEY

PEAK + VALLEY creates adaptogen and mushroom-based wellness products that include Ashwagandha, Reishi, and Lion’s Mane to help customers manage stress while improving sleep and cognitive function. This wellness gift provides excellent support for people who experience stress, sleep problems, or need help with cognitive health. 

RELATED CONTENT: Ahmaud Arbery ‘s Mother Keeps His Legacy Alive By Creating A Safe Space For Black Teens

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Holiday skincare routines celebrities swear by

Holiday skincare routines celebrities swear by

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The holiday season often brings overlapping work commitments, social events, and personal responsibilities, leaving little time for rest. For many, the combination of long hours, travel, and festive activities can take a toll on the skin, leading to fatigue, puffiness, and dullness.

Experts recommend incorporating targeted skincare treatments, hydration, and proper sleep routines to maintain a refreshed appearance during the busiest time of the year.

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Many local celebrities are turning to Belo Medical Group to keep their skin camera-ready amid the season’s demands.

One of Belo’s lounges blends art and soft lighting to create a relaxing setting

Among the most sought-after procedures is NeuroBright Eyes, a 20-minute treatment designed to reduce under-eye puffiness and fatigue. The procedure, part of Belo’s Neurocosmetics line, uses lactobiome to balance the skin, hyaluronic acid for hydration and firming, and tranexamic acid for brightening. The treatment works by modulating the “brain–skin axis,” calming nerve-driven stress that can trigger puffiness, dark circles, or dullness. 

Pia Wurtzbach-Jauncey recently sampled NeuroBright Eyes, while actor KD Estrada and actress Alexa Ilacad rely on it to maintain a rested look amid demanding schedules of tapings, concerts, and performances.

Pia Wurtzbach undergoes Belo’s NeuroBright Eyes treatment, a 20-minute procedure designed to ease under-eye puffiness and signs of fatigue using the brand’s Neurocosmetics approach

Another popular option is the NeuroGlow Facial, which targets uneven texture, congestion, and dullness by regulating overstimulated neuro-receptors. BINI member Aiah, who recently completed 12 Biniverse concert stops across Asia and North America, uses NeuroGlow to keep her skin vibrant. 

Content creator CK de Leon reported noticeable improvements in texture and brightness after two sessions. Actress Kaila Estrada and content creator Charlie Flemming also use the treatment to maintain healthy skin despite busy routines.

For facial contouring, Liftera employs thermal diffusion technology to lift, contour, and define facial angles without downtime. The ultrasound-based treatment triggers collagen remodeling at multiple depths, refining the jawline, softening early signs of laxity, and gradually enhancing structure and definition.

Belo Medical Group reception area offers a calm, nature-inspired space where clients prepare for treatments

Lifestyle and fashion personalities Jaz Reyes, Raymond Gutierrez, Georgina Wilson, and Liz Uy rely on Liftera to maintain sharp, polished features while managing demanding professional and personal schedules.

Belo’s Vertical Axis Lift combines multiple machine-based procedures to enhance lift, contour, and skin suppleness along the natural direction of aging.

Dr. Vicki Belo emphasized that no single machine can achieve all desired results, making combination procedures more effective. Piolo Pascual uses the treatment annually to maintain firm and sculpted angles, while Anne Curtis opts for it to achieve a natural, non-invasive lift.

Dr. Belo noted that 2025 emphasizes combining procedures to deliver optimal results. Non-invasive treatments remain central to Belo’s approach, offering effective outcomes with minimal discomfort or downtime, catering to clients with busy December calendars.

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7 Holiday Cookie Recipes To Make Your Season Bright

7 Holiday Cookie Recipes To Make Your Season Bright

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Some of my favorite holiday memories are of baking with my family – eating dough, throwing a smidge of flour at each other, and most importantly ending up with a plate of hot, fresh cookies.

If you’re planning a baking session soon, here are seven tried-and-true holiday cookie recipes to make your season a little brighter.

I hope you love them as much as we do!

Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men

These chewy gingerbread cookies blend sweet cinnamon and a hint of vanilla with zingy ginger and molasses.

They’re surprisingly simple to make and so delicious!

Gluten-Free Sugar Cookies

Decorated with naturally colored sprinkles and plant-based, natural food dye, these cutout cookies are super easy to make and fun to decorate. 

Gluten-Free Snickerdoodle Cookies

Soft, chewy and rolled in cinnamon sugar deliciousness, these gluten-free snickerdoodles are made with just a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand.

Gluten-Free Brown Butter Pecan Cookies

These scrumptious gluten-free butter pecan cookies are buttery, chewy and so yummy, and you only need seven ingredients to make them!

GET THE RECIPE

Zimtsterne, which means “cinnamon stars,” is a traditional spiced cookie that’s made with ground almonds or hazelnuts. It’s naturally gluten-free, chewy in the middle, and crisp around the edges.

Soft & Chewy Chai Cookies (Gluten-Free)

Spiced with ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, allspice, cloves, nutmeg and a smidge of black pepper, these chai cookies are soft, chewy, and easy to make.

Jam Thumbprint Cookies (Gluten-Free)

Soft & buttery, these thumbprint cookies are easy to make and so delicious! Fill with whatever jam makes your taste buds sing – raspberry, strawberry, peach, and blackberry are a few of our favorites.

Bonus Recipe: Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Whether or not this favorite is actually a holiday cookie depends on who you ask, but I’m including it here for those who can’t imagine a holiday baking session without them. 

These ooey-gooey paleo cookies are one of my family’s tried-and-true favorite recipes. Ready in about 20 minutes.

More Holiday Recipes To Try

Easy, Creamy Homemade Eggnog (Traditional and Dairy-Free) – Our ancestors didn’t drink eggnog with high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, stabilizers and carrageenan, and we don’t have to either. Make this quick and easy creamy eggnog instead.

Chocolate Peppermint Freezer Fudge – This chocolate peppermint freezer fudge recipe reminds me of biting into a Thin Mint cookie, and it only takes 10 minutes of hands-on time to make.

Mexican Hot Chocolate – This rich, velvety Mexican hot chocolate is one of my favorites. It balances notes of cinnamon and vanilla with the exotic warmth of chipotle chili powder. You’ll find my recipe over at NourishedKitchen.com.

Homemade Marshmallows – Is it possible to make light, fluffy marshmallows without corn syrup? Yep. These classic-style marshmallows are made with wholesome ingredients like honey, grass-fed gelatin and vanilla.

Want more delicious, easy recipes?

No problem, I’ve created a free ebook for you – 35+ Gluten-Free Desserts – as a gift for signing up for my newsletter. Every Sunday you’ll get recipes, actionable health tips, and highly-vetted product recommendations delivered fresh to your inbox.

Sign up using the form below.

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Christmas activities for kids

45+ Christmas Activities for Kids to Do This Holiday Season

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For many of us, Christmas time means a little more time with family and a break from school. We do an adventure points system over summer break, but I wanted to brainstorm some more Christmas ideas. Here are some fun Christmas activities for kids that encourage creativity, imagination, and movement during the holiday season.

Christmas Activities for Kids

I already have a big list of 100+ boredom-busting activities for kids. But sometimes it’s nice to have something a little more in the holiday spirit for them to do. Most of these easy Christmas activities for kids are free, can be done at home, or are near you. 

Maybe your kids are home on Christmas break and you’re looking for a fun family activity to do together. Or maybe they’re getting a little bored and are looking for something hands-on.

Our family focuses on gratitude and giving over the Christmas season, so you’ll find plenty of kid-friendly ideas that line up with that principle. There’s just something a little magical about this time of year and it’s nice to enjoy fun Christmas activities alongside a mug of (healthy) hot cocoa.

The ideas below aren’t divided by age, but you may find that some of your kids will enjoy one activity over another. Older kids aren’t as thrilled with sensory bins and toddlers aren’t really able to do an activity like snowboarding. So pick and choose what works best for your family.

Some of these work well as Christmas party activities for kids if you’re hosting a family gathering. Or if you’re an educator, they can be done in school in a classroom setting. 

Christmas Playdough

Playdough is a hit with preschoolers everywhere and it’s easy to make your own. I like this playdough recipe here, plus it’s gluten-free for kids who have allergies. I’ll add a little natural red or green food coloring to make it holiday colored. Add a little peppermint extract to the batch to make a fun candy cane playdough!

Holiday Themed Sensory Bin

This one is great for toddlers and preschoolers. Even kids who are a little older love getting their hands in a bin of rice or beans for sensory play! The best sensory activity is one that encourages creativity and free play. It’s not as fun if the parent spends more time putting all of the details together than the kids do playing with it.

It’s also a great opportunity for little ones to use tweezers, spoons, and other utensils to transfer the objects from one container to another. This is a fun way to practice fine motor skills.

  • Make a cinnamon themed bin with rice, cinnamon sticks, pine cones, and little gingerbread themed items from around the house.
  • Create a natural Christmas sensory bin with pine cones, cranberries, fir branches, and small pieces of cut wood or branches. Mix them into a base of red beans, dried peas, and white beans (like navy or lima), for a red, white, and green theme.

Christmas Craft Activities For Kids

You may be a paper plate, popsicle stick, and glitter kind of family or maybe your kids prefer less crafty art projects. I enjoy sitting down with the kids to draw or paint, and we’ve done several art projects this way together. Here are a few holiday crafts the whole family can do together.

  • Cut out paper snowflakes from white paper and hang them up to display
  • Make a Christmas tree craft out of construction paper, popsicle sticks, or miniature ornaments. Older kids can make one out of scrap wood.
  • Pull out the pom poms and make a festive photo ornament wreath.
  • Try an origami Christmas project.

Science Experiments

Do a science experiment (together or have the kids do one on their own). I love this book for the kids because it has projects they can mostly do themselves. And I don’t have to buy any special ingredients or supplies.

KiwiCo also offers a subscription box for those who love having science experiments delivered. They also have art and craft boxes if that’s your thing. I like that they have options for everyone from babies to teens (and older) and for different budgets.

Fingerpaint

If your kids aren’t old enough to wield a paintbrush yet, then try this edible finger paint! I use spirulina or spinach for the green color and beets for a pinkish red. They have a lot of fun painting with it and I don’t worry if they get some in their mouth. The art projects only last for about a day, so I’ll snap a picture if it’s something I want to keep.

Make Your Own Crayons

Kids can have fun making their own beeswax crayons with this DIY project. Use a silicone mold in fun, Christmas themed shapes like gingerbread, trees or snowmen. 

Build a Gingerbread House

A candy covered gingerbread house isn’t something you’re going to find on my table. However, there is a way to get in on the fun and still be (relatively) healthy. I’ll make sweets for the kids on occasion, just with healthier ingredients.

Here’s a tutorial for an AIP gingerbread house or a regular version that you can easily make with organic ingredients. Dried fruit, nuts, coconut shreds, and dark chocolate make great decorations. Stick it all on with the frosting recipe from the bottom of this vanilla cake post.  

Bake Christmas Cookies

One year my kids wanted gingerbread cookies so I came up with this molasses cookies recipe. It has all the flavors of gingerbread without the junky ingredients. Coconut macaroons, snickerdoodles and chewy chocolate cookies are also a big hit at our house.  

This is the perfect opportunity for the kids to bake some treats for the neighbors, nursing home residents, or extended family and give as a gift.

Make a Christmas Card

Christmas is the one time of the year when we all wear coordinating outfits and snap a family picture. Even if you’re like us and send out a family photo Christmas card, you can pair it with a homemade card. Kids can use construction paper, paint, and markers to make their own Christmas cards with a heartfelt note. These can either be mailed or hand delivered.

Festive Marshmallows

Christmas activities for kids can be delicious too. Years ago I started making my own homemade marshmallows. The kids love the taste and they’re full of gut healing gelatin and naturally sweetened.

These matcha marshmallows are a festive green color. Or add some peppermint extract (instead of vanilla) to my homemade marshmallows recipe for a seasonal flavor.

Christmas Songs

You can play some Christmas songs in the background while the kids are doing chores around the house, cooking meals, or doing fun projects. Do some Christmas song karaoke or dance to your favorite tunes for fun movement.

Advent Calendar

Countdown to Christmas day with an Advent calendar. I use this one that gives a prompt for a kind act we can do each day. It takes the focus off of getting stuff and encourages us to do for others. Here are more ways our family honors the advent season.

Christmas Movies

Make a list of Christmas movies to watch together and make some popcorn and snacks. We keep a basket of blue light blocking glasses in our living for everyone on family movie nights. It’s a Wonderful Life is one of our favorites that we watch every year.

Capture the Memories

Every year I gift the kids a photo book with some of their favorite memories from the past year. They always look forward to it and enjoy looking back on what they’ve been up to. Kids can make their own keepsake photo books with their holiday memories. They can also make one with favorite family recipes from the holiday season.

Some kids may need a little more help than others with formatting their special photo book, but places like Mixbook make it really easy.

Sip on Cocoa

Hot cocoa is a must have in our house. Even better if it has some homemade marshmallows on top! Make some homemade cocoa to sip on while wrapping gifts or reading a favorite Christmas book. I also like this healthy premade hot chocolate that’s packed with superfoods (like medicinal mushrooms).

Make a DIY Christmas Snowglobe

If your kids are anything like mine were, they’re fascinated with snowglobes. They can make their own with a small figurine or ornament and a mason jar. Here’s a simple tutorial for how to make a glitter snow globe from a Mason jar.

DIY Christmas Ornaments

If your kids like working with air dry or oven bake clay, then they can have fun making their own customized ornaments. Salt dough is another great way to make homemade ornaments, even for young kids. Little ones can make a handprint ornament to give to the grandparents. Or use cookie cutters to make Christmas shapes to decorate.

Get the tutorial for how to make salt dough ornaments here.

Make a Garland

The kids can make a popcorn garland or string together cranberries and dried oranges. This is a fun activity to do while listening to a favorite Christmas book or music. You can hang the finished garlands around the Christmas tree, the stairway, or even the wall.

Get the instructions for how to make a DIY natural Christmas garland here.

Craft a Window Display

Decorate the window for a festive Christmas display. Kids can hang up some Christmas lights, garlands, or ornaments for passers-by to see. You can even get large, removable holiday themed stickers for the kids to put on the glass.

Make a Gnome Garden

Some kids love fairy gardens and can rearrange and play with the pieces for hours. Help the kids make a holiday themed version with gnomes. You can add little gnome figurines, rocks, moss, twigs, and other natural ingredients to the garden. Lincoln logs also make great gnome houses!

Learn how to make your own gnome (or fairy) garden here.

Christmas Games For Kids

Anything that requires movement and creativity is a win in my book. 

Make a Holiday Wreath

My girls started sewing at a young age and they’ve had a lot of fun with sewing projects over the years. This easy burlap wreath tutorial can be customized to make any shape you want. I did an egg for Easter, but kids could also cut out and sew a gingerbread man, a star, or a Christmas tree.

Get the instructions for a DIY burlap wreath here.

Christmas Tree

Find a local Christmas tree farm and go pick one out together. Whether you opt for a real tree or an artificial one, decorating it is another favorite Christmas activity. Don’t forget to put on some Christmas music and sip on a peppermint mocha or homemade hot cocoa while you decorate!

Donate to Local Families in Need

The week before or after Christmas (when we’re not busy doing school), the kids and I go around the house looking for things to get rid of. Things that we can share with others that they’ll benefit from. This helps make room for the new gifts and items coming in on Christmas day. The idea isn’t to clear out junk, but to bless someone else with something they’ll love.

We also do what we call the surprise Santa tradition. We find another family, either through a local church or a domestic violence shelter who is in need. Then we’ll get them gifts, clothing, enough food for some meals, and gift cards. Even though we don’t actually meet them in person, my kids absolutely love doing this for others.

Go Christmas Caroling

Our neighborhood has a wagon full of carolers that go around singing Christmas carols to the neighbors. Your kids can go caroling around their own neighborhood, at a local hospital, nursing home, or assisted living facility (if rules allow). It’s a great way to spread free Christmas cheer.

DIY Christmas Gifts

The kids can make their own Christmas gifts for friends and family. Younger kids may need a little more help with this one. Some popular DIY gifts around here are things like lotion bars and sugar cookie lip scrub. You can find a whole list of DIY gift ideas here.

Christmas Eve Feast

For years our family has had a fishy tradition. On Christmas Eve we’ll make a traditional Sicilian feast of the seven fishes. Yes, I really make 7 different types of fish! A lot of times it’s something small like an oyster, or a crab cake so we don’t end up eating a huge amount.

The kids love getting involved with the planning and the making of the meal. You can read more about how this tradition started for us and why we do it here.

Outdoor Christmas Activities for Kids

Get outside and into the fresh air with these Christmas activities for kids ideas.

Build a Snowman

If you live in an area where there’s snow, building a snowman is a timeless kid’s activity. Everyone can work together to build the ultimate snowman, or each family member can create their own. No snow? Make one inside with moon sand.

Christmas Lights

Many towns have Christmas light displays that are fun to go see. You may find one at the local park. Or maybe the neighbors don’t pull any punches when it comes to decorating their yards for Christmas. Take a walk around and enjoy the lights together!

Go Ice Skating

Ice skating is a fun way to get some more movement in during the colder weather. Even if you don’t live near a pond or lake that’s safe to skate on, you can probably find a local indoor or outdoor rink. Some offer discounts for groups or during certain (slower) times of the day.

Sledding

Of course, I couldn’t leave out this classic pastime. If you’re in an area with enough snow, then find a big hill and haul out the sleds. You may also be able to find a tobogganing track near your area.

Christmas Scavenger Hunt

Put together a neighborhood scavenger hunt. Make a list (or use pictures) of items the kids can find around the neighborhood. These can be things like Christmas lights, a snowman, a cardinal, and a wreath. They can work in teams or individually to find the items. Or instead of a checklist, turn it into a bingo card and see who can get 5 in a row first.

Here are a few more Christmas activities for kids:

  • Make eco-friendly cloth gift bags to wrap presents for family and friends.
  • Start a winter garden or plant a windowsill herb garden.
  • Whip up a batch of snow cream (if you’re in a snowy area).

Does your family have any special traditions or activities during the holidays? I’d love to hear about them! Let me know in the comments below!

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Holiday Wellness Hacks That Actually Work | FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV

Holiday Wellness Hacks That Actually Work | FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Holiday stress, skipped workouts, and endless sweets — it’s the season when wellness routines get derailed, but not this year! Trusted health expert and ‘Step It Up with Steph’ host Stephanie Mansour is sharing her top “Fit for the Holidays” strategies. Visit TipsOnTV.com for the full list.

The information and advice displayed in this story are those of individual sponsors and guests and not Nexstar Media Group, inc.

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Self Care: Trendy holiday makeup looks that will make you feel confident at any age

Self Care: Trendy holiday makeup looks that will make you feel confident at any age

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This holiday season’s makeup trends are all about shimmer, glow and a healthy dose of self-assurance. Think luminous skin, flushed cheeks and eyes that gleam. For women who’ve earned their laugh lines, it’s less about keeping up with TikTok and more about modern tweaks that flatter, not mask.

“As a woman over 40, I’m here to say that every woman should feel empowered to experiment with their makeup looks and try new trends. There is no age limit on colour and sparkle!” avows Lori Taylor Davis, Global Pro Lead Makeup Artist of Smashbox.

With this in mind, here’s how to wear the season’s prettiest trends without looking stuck in the past.

The eyes have it

Golden eyes were on full display during New York Fashion Week runways this fall. The look works especially well for the holidays, says Taylor Davis.

“Chromatic lids can be fun and playful but also extremely chic, making them perfect for a mature woman.”

A close eye of golden eyes with metal FX eye liner. Smashbox

Taylor Davis recommends using a metallic eyeliner, such as Smashbox’s Metal FX Eyeliners, that glide on easily to create a wing or just a subtle pop in the inner corner of the eye.

Also on trend this season is a modern take on frost eyes. According to Taylor Davis, frosted eyeshadow instantly elevates by catching the light, adding dimension that’s both playful and polished. Frost eyes are easy to create, and you can even use your fingers.

To get this look, Taylor Davis primes lids with an eyeshadow base or concealer for staying power, before applying a soft matte neutral shade to create depth. Then she glides on a shimmering shadow across the lid.

Lips and cheeks

Plenty of blush trends emerged this year, but “workout blush” mimics the skin’s natural flush after you’ve just exercised. To recreate that rosy hue, Taylor Davis suggests applying the blush lower on the cheeks than you traditionally would to create a naturally flushed look.

As for lips, the Y2K-style nude lip is back. The current version is softer and more tonal, making it flattering across all skin tones, skin types, and ages. For this latest trend, Taylor Davis advises lining lips one shade deeper than your natural lip colour, then choosing a nude lip that matches your undertone. For fair skin that’s beige-pink or peachy nude. Medium and olive-toned skin can try caramel or warm beige. For deep skin, consider mocha, toffee, or warm chocolate nude shades.

It starts with skin care

Before even getting to the makeup stage, you’ll want to ensure your skin is at its best.

“The main focus for all makeup looks, regardless of age or skin types, is ‘acing your base,’ which means perfecting your skin in a way that looks natural,” notes Taylor Davis.

When it comes to skin care, mature women don’t need to follow the latest trends, says Lorna Brown, owner and certified esthetician and laser technician at Refresh MediSpa in Sherwood Park, Alta..

“We want to look hydrated as opposed to dry at our age,” she admits. “A face full of makeup can settle into fine lines and creases, especially if you’re not hydrated.”

If you’ll be wearing more makeup than usual or getting it professionally applied, Brown recommends having a non-evasive facial a month before the big event. Her favourite treatment for prepping skin before big events or photo shoots is dermaplaning.

“We use a surgical scalpel that scrapes up dead skin and all that peach fuzz women tend to get when we’re older. When you have makeup sitting on top of that hair, it accentuates the fuzz. Dermaplaning makes your skin look like glass afterwards, and there’s no downtime,” she shares.

Whenever you’re wearing more makeup than usual or having it professional applied, Brown recommends scheduling a non-evasive facial like dermaplaning or microdermabrasion a month before the big event. If there’s no issues, repeat it a few days before the event.

“People can have different reactions, and it takes about a month to heal if you do,” she warns.

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