I can hardly believe it’s already the holiday season. Maybe it’s the lack of snowflakes or the fact we eat roast dinners all year round in the UK, but if there weren’t twinkle lights hanging outside, I wouldn’t have guessed it was nearly December.

Alas, we find ourselves at the start of the annual shopping marathon to find something wonderful for everyone wonderful in our lives. The first 2022 MIDDI gift guide includes three beauty buys that are sure to get you rave reviews. Each one is sure to elevate the recipient’s normal routine but will also become a favorite for years to come.

Here’s to happy surprises for you and yours.

1. Renée Rouleau Rapid Response Detox Masque ($65.50)

reneerouleauskincare

A post shared by Renée Rouleau Skin Care (@reneerouleauskincare)

Who doesn’t love getting something sparkly as a present? This luxe mask from celebrity esthetician Renée Rouleau helps to reduce inflammation, clear the pores and soothe and prevent breakouts. Best of all, it doesn’t sting or strip the skin. Instead, your complexion is left calm, soft and glowing thanks to a blend of ingredients that includes tea tree oil, salicylic acid, allantoin and sodium hyaluronate. Let’s be honest, acne masks are never much fun, but this one feels like an indulgent spa treatment. Pair it with a set of silk hair ties to complete the experience.

2. ghd Platinum+ Hair Straightener (£175 and up)

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A post shared by ghd hair (@ghdhair)

A good hair straightener is worth the splurge. This one from ghd (previously featured here) hasn’t let me down in the 3+ years since I bought it. I’ve taken this universal-voltage flat iron around the world without issue to tame my hair in climates of all kinds. The floating plates heat evenly to 185ºC (365ºF) to smooth your strands without, sizzling, smoking or damage. I use this tool to straighten, curl and wave my hair with ease, and knowing it will automatically shut off after 30 minutes should I forget gives me peace of mind as I head out the door.

3. Wouf Aida Vanity Bag (47,00€)

woufofficial

A post shared by Wouf (@woufofficial)

A good vanity bag can save you from messy spills and broken bottles of pricey potions (see here and here). A bag that supports a good cause is even better. I’ve received countless plastic cosmetic bags as freebies over the years, only to have them rip and end up in the trash. Wouf manufactures their bags in Spain from 100% recycled materials, including fabrics made from used plastic bottles and water-based inks that are better for the environment. The brand was founded in 2008 by Alice Penaud and Pablo Martinez and all Black Friday purchases will support ReTree.

Want more gift ideas? Check out my 2021 beauty, fashion and home picks.

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MIDDI is a weekly roundup of mid-priced beauty, fashion and home buys released every Monday. Have a product you’re searching for? Leave your suggestions in the comments.