Last-minute Christmas Gift Ideas

Left your holiday shopping to the last minute? Us too. Luckily we’re taking the guesswork out of gifting with our joy-sparking collection of beauty gifts. From fragrance sets to luxe grooming kits and pigmented eyeshadow palettes, we’ve got a present to suit everyone on your list. No matter what stage of their beauty journey your giftee is at, these treats will encourage them to get playful and express every side of themselves. Check out our Christmas present ideas below, and let us grant all your gifting wishes.

Why do we give gifts on Christmas?

Let’s unwrap the gifting tradition. Many religions mark the end of the year by giving gifts, for Christianity it’s symbolic of the birth of Jesus, the Jewish faith celebrates Hanukkah and Hindus rejoice for Pancha Ganapati. Gift giving can even be traced all the way back to the Roman Empire! Nowadays, gifts are exchanged to show love, kindness and affection for those you love, whether you believe in religion or not.

What are the best Christmas gifts for people who have everything?

We ALL have that one person who seems impossible to buy for, but we promise their perfect present is wrapped in black and white stripes. That’s right, we’re talking about a Sephora Gift Card. Whether you choose an e-gift card or classic card, this Christmas gift idea is perfect for every budget and personality. Giving the beautiful gift of choice, the lucky giftee can treat themselves to beauty that truly expresses who they are. The only hard part? Not keeping it for yourself.

Where to shop for Christmas gifts?

Whether you prefer to shop in-store and get the full festive experience, or prefer to browse presents from bed, Sephora UK is the hub for gifting help. We have stores in Westfield White City and Westfield Stratford (our stripey new addition), where you can experience the holiday magic IRL - plus our online shop with lots of sparkling savings.

How do I choose a last-minute gift?

The most important thing: don’t panic! We know last-minute gifting can get overwhelming but try and enjoy the experience. Go in with a gifting game plan, including a foolproof list of names and present ideas. Look for fail-safe beauty gifts that will suit all personalities, beauty newbies and pros alike. For example, you can *never* go wrong with bath and body sets, or any kit which encourages a moment of wellbeing. When you’ve created your list, tick off as you go so you don’t forget anyone (we’re speaking from woeful experience). Setting a time and budget limit can also keep you focused so you don’t get swept up in the festivities. The holidays can already feel overwhelming and full of stress, but this is one experience that doesn’t need to be!

How much do I spend on Christmas gifts?

The amount to spend on Christmas presents is completely personal. With the cost of living rising and gift prices soaring, it’s all about the sentiment this season. One of the best gifting hacks is to agree on an amount in advance and eliminate the fear that someone has spent more than you. And for that? We have limitless Value Gifting options. Be honest this holiday: if you need to set a limit with family and friends then it’s much better to share the love than the stress. We’ve got sparkling sets for every budget, so you can find mini and merry stocking fillers, or go all out with a full skincare routine. And if you’re wanting to get them a lot for a little? Our Black Friday week might be just the ticket.

Why are beauty gifts the perfect last-minute gifts?

We love to give beauty gifts as they’re the ultimate form of self expression. Perfect for every kind of beauty lover, Christmas beauty presents can suit a wide range of different personalities and encourage the giftee to show every side of themselves. From a soothing skincare set to a cheeky blush set, make the holiday season beautiful with creativity sparking gifts. The best part? They’re ideal for the expert MUAs in your life, and the budding creatives who are yet to let their best ideas shine through.

*Want your order in time for Christmas? Our final order date (and time!) is Wednesday 20th December at 12pm for guaranteed Christmas delivery when you order with Premier Delivery. If you aren't already, you can sign up for 12 whole months of that order now, indulge tomorrow feeling for just £9.95. Order your beauty haul by midnight on Tuesday 19th December with Standard Delivery. Alternatively, you can shop in our Sephora UK stores until 6pm on Christmas Eve. Happy Holidays from us!

By Sephora UK Gifting Editorial Team

Writers and experts

Updated: 20 December 2023