As Christmas approaches, mums too deserve their own daily dose of holiday cheer. While your little ones eagerly unwrap their baby and toddler advent calendars, why not treat yourself to something special?
Imagine discovering a new skincare product, lipstick, or bath treat each morning—little luxuries just for you, with no sharing required. Amid the festive hustle, these adult advent calendars offer a wonderful escape and a chance for some well-deserved self-care. Whether you’re treating yourself or dropping hints to someone special, a beauty advent calendar can make your holiday season even brighter.
With 16.5 million advent calendars sold each year in the UK, beauty calendars have become a popular choice alongside traditional chocolate calendars. Here, we’ve rounded up the best beauty advent calendars that glamorous mums will love!
When do beauty Advent calendars go on sale for Christmas 2024?
If you want to get your hands on a beauty Advent calendar this year or even a family advent calendar for the whole clan, we'd advise you to start looking now. Many retailers release their Advent calendars from mid-September to mid-October, while chocolate advent calendars come slightly closer to Christmas. A lot of beauty Advent calendars are on sale now, but if your favourite brand hasn't released one yet, they should do soon.
The demand for beauty calendars is high and they often sell out quickly, so if you see one you like, make sure you snap it up while you can. For this reason, brands will often put their calendars on a pre-sale to help make sure you secure your chosen calendar. Others have email sign-ups on their website so you can be alerted when their calendars go on sale.
The best beauty Advent calendars for glamorous mums
We've found the best beauty advent calendars that glamourous mums will love. We’ve checked out top beauty brands to get you great deals and big savings. Each calendar adds a bit of luxury and festive fun to December, turning everyday self-care into a special treat.
The best beauty advent calendars 2024 at a glance:
The best beauty advent calendar overall - John Lewis Beauty Advent Calendar £195.00 (worth £933.13)
The best skincare advent calendar for value - Boots Skincare Advent Calendar 2024 - 24 Days Of Skincare - £65 (worth over £242)
The best beauty advent calendar for luxury skincare - L’OCCITANE Luxury Beauty Advent Calendar £130 (worth £211.50)
The best skincare advent calendar for vegan skincare lovers - Cath Kidston Doll’s House Advent Calendar, £30
The best wellness advent calendar for perfect bath - Baylis & Harding The Fuzzy Duck Winter Wonderland, £30
The best beauty advent calendar overall
www.johnlewis.com
If you’re on the hunt for the best beauty advent calendar, look no further than the John Lewis Beauty Advent Calendar! This beauty box is like a little treasure chest packed with fabulous goodies from brands we all adore, like Charlotte Tilbury, Sol De Janeiro, and Parfums de Marly.
Every day leading up to Christmas, you get to open a new door and discover something fabulous. We’re talking skincare must-haves, makeup essentials, hair products, and even three gorgeous fragrances to keep you smelling divine.
But wait, there’s more! Behind door 25, ten lucky folks will have a shot at winning a £500 gift voucher for an exclusive shopping spree at John Lewis, and five money-can't-buy experiences to make this Christmas even more special!
One thrilled shopper shared, “I just got the John Lewis Advent Calendar, and I’m amazed at what’s inside! It’s packed with over £900 worth of products. For the price, it’s an absolute steal! The ordering process was super easy, and DHL delivered it right on time—just two days later! I couldn’t be happier with the whole experience. I’ll definitely be back for more!”
Pros
- Amazing value. Over £900 worth of products for a great price
- Includes popular brands, ensuring something for everyone
- Exciting daily surprises. Makes the countdown to Christmas fun and festive
- There’s a chance to win big. The £500 voucher and exclusive experiences are a nice bonus
Cons
- Limited quantity. Once they’re gone, they’re gone—so you have to act fast!
The best skincare advent calendar for value
www.boots.com
For mums who want to keep their skin glowing all season long, the Boots Skincare Advent Calendar is a fantastic choice. It’s filled with 16 full-sized products from top brands like Garnier, Weleda, and The Inkey List. With everything you need for a complete skincare routine, this calendar makes it easy to pamper yourself and enjoy radiant skin throughout the holiday season.
One happy reviewer, Allison, shared her thoughts: “Just received mine—it's a huge box and very well presented! Adorable and unlike other calendars, it also contains several full-sized products. Well done, Boots.”
Pros
- Contains 16 full-sized skincare products
- Variety of top skincare brands
- A great value for its price
Cons
- Focused solely on skincare, which might not suit beauty lovers seeking variety
- Available online only
The best beauty advent calendar for skincare-obsessed mums
uk.loccitane.com
If you’re obsessed with hand creams, soaps, and shower oils, you already know that L’OCCITANE sets the bar for luxury skincare. This holiday season, their Luxury Beauty Advent Calendar turns your countdown to Christmas into a pampering delight and we’re obsessed.
Each day leading up to Christmas, you get to unwrap a little slice of heaven with 24 fabulous surprises, packed with everything from bestsellers to delightful new finds. Seriously, it’s the perfect excuse to snag a few moments of self-care amid the beautiful chaos of mum life.
And can we talk about the stunning “Toile de Jouy” design? This calendar adds a touch of festive charm to your home and looks so good it could be part of your holiday décor!
One thrilled mum reviewer Anne said it best: “I’m absolutely obsessed with natural skincare and have been a loyal L’OCCITANE fan forever. This luxury beauty advent calendar is pure magic! With 24 doors of heavenly goodies and a surprise on the 24th, it’s a total delight for all us skincare fanatics. The calendar smells divine even when it’s closed! I can’t wait for each day—it makes the holiday countdown so much more exciting! And let’s be real, my little boy won’t be getting his hands on any of it; it’s all mine! Plus, once the festivities are over, I can repurpose the calendar to store his little treasures or crayons. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, just like motherhood!”
Pros
- Luxurious products. Includes high-quality skincare items that pamper you
- Beautiful design. The “Toile de Jouy” design makes it a lovely décor piece
- Sustainable, and can be repurposed for storage after the holidays
The best beauty advent calendar for make-up lovers
www.johnlewis.com
Looking for a beauty advent calendar that doubles as a showstopper? Look no further than the Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Treasure Chest of Love! This stunning 12-drawer calendar is not just a treat for yourself, but also makes an unforgettable gift for anyone on your list this holiday season.
Each drawer hides one of Charlotte’s award-winning, globally-loved beauty secrets, designed to suit everyone, everywhere. Whether you’re a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, there’s something delightful waiting for you!
And here’s the best part: once you've unwrapped all the goodies, this heart-adorned treasure chest transforms into a gorgeous jewellery box or a magical keepsake.
Pros
- Features Charlotte Tilbury's bestsellers
- The treasure chest design is beautiful and doubles as décor
- Perfect for anyone who loves beauty, from makeup lovers to skincare enthusiasts
- After the holidays, it serves as a charming jewellery box or storage option
Cons
- With only 12 drawers, some may find fewer options compared to larger calendars
The best beauty advent calendar for affordable make-up
www.next.co.uk
Looking for a way to make your countdown to Christmas extra special? Nuxe’s Beauty Countdown Advent Calendar is a treat for your skin. Packed with 24 luxurious skincare minis, it’s like gifting yourself a little bit of luxe every single day. From nourishing balms to decadent oils, your skin will be glowing all through the festive season. And the chic, limited-edition design? It’ll add a touch of elegance to your beauty routine!
Question for you: Which part of your skincare routine are you most excited to spoil yourself with this holiday season?
Pros
- Range of premium skincare items
- Luxurious, gift-worthy design
- Ideal for testing high-end skincare
Cons
- Some products may feel small for everyday use
The best skincare advent calendar for pampering on a budget
www.argos.co.uk
Who says you can’t treat yourself while keeping your holiday spending in check? The Bubble T 24 Days of Beauty Set is all about affordable pampering! From bath bombs to pillow sprays, this set will help you unwind and relax every single day. Perfect for busy mums who need a little "me time" amidst the holiday chaos!What’s your favourite way to unwind after a busy day – a warm bath or a cosy skincare routine?
Pros
- Great variety of bath, body, and skincare treats
- Affordable and playful with relaxing products like heating eye masks
- Great for full-body pampering
Cons
- Some items may feel a bit too novelty
The best makeup advent calendar for cute design
www.boots.com
Looking for a fun way to add some glam to your holiday season? The 17 Countdown of Joy Advent Calendar has all your makeup essentials, from bold lipsticks to sparkly eyeshadows, perfect for creating festive looks all month long. Plus, the cute design makes it a joy to open every day!
Pros
- Variety of makeup and beauty tools
- Perfect for mums who love experimenting with makeup
- Affordable way to expand your beauty collection
Cons
- Some items might not be a must-have every day
The best beauty advent calendar on a budget
www.boots.com
Who says you can’t treat yourself to a little luxury without breaking the bank? The A Little Something Advent Calendar offers 24 sweet beauty and body treats that make you feel pampered without the hefty price tag. It’s perfect for mums who want to squeeze in some self-care moments amid the holiday madness!
Pros
- Perfect for those quick self-care moments
- Curated collection of everyday beauty essentials
- Affordable and thoughtful
Cons
- Lacks deluxe items for a bit of wow factor
The best beauty advent calendar for Ted Baker fans
www.boots.com
For those who love a bit of glamour and sophistication, the Ted Baker Beauty & Bathing Advent Calendar is your perfect festive companion! Filled with deluxe-sized products and housed in a beautiful, reusable tin, this calendar is ideal for indulging in head-to-toe pampering. From hand balms to soothing bath foams, it's all about treating yourself like royalty.
One reviewer said: "Ted baker never fails to disappoint as the product in the calander are always of good quality and full sized products."
Pros
- Full-sized products for long-lasting use
- Elegant, reusable tin
- Perfect mix of beauty and bathing essentials
The best skincare advent calendar for vegan skincare lovers
Get ready for a festive treat that doubles as a beautiful keepsake! The Cath Kidston Doll’s House Advent Calendar is full of delightful vegan beauty treats, from hand creams to body sprays in scents like Vanilla Cloud and Pistachio Ice. With its charming design, it’s not just a calendar – it’s a holiday decoration too!
Pros
- Adorable dollhouse design that doubles as decor
- Gorgeous seasonal scents for the holidays
- Great for vegan beauty fans
The best wellness advent calendar for perfect bath
Transform your bath time into a holiday retreat with Baylis & Harding’s Winter Wonderland Advent Calendar. With seasonal scents like Frosted Cranberry and Spiced Pear, this calendar brings all the festive cheer to your self-care routine. Perfect for busy mums in need of some relaxation after a long day.
Pros
- Holiday-inspired fragrances that fill your bathroom with festive joy
- Great value for money
- Full range of bath and body products for complete pampering
Cons
- Limited to bath-related products
The best makeup advent calendar for mums who love lippies
If you’re all about the lips, NYX’s 12 Days of Kissmas calendar is your ultimate holiday companion! With 12 days of mini lip products, from matte to glossy, you’ll have every shade and finish to match your mood and outfit. It’s the perfect way to indulge in some lip love this Christmas season. What’s your go-to lip look during the holidays – bold red or a soft nude?
Pros
- Perfect for lip product lovers
- Vegan formulas with a variety of shades
- Great for creating festive lip looks
Cons
- Only lip products, so not ideal for a complete makeup look
The best wellness advent calendar for bath bombs obssessed
www.lush.com
If you're looking for a fun and festive way to count down to Christmas, the Lush Advent Calendar 2024 is a real winner for mums who enjoy a bit of self-care. This bright and cheerful box, featuring unique artwork by Tess Gilmartin, is packed with 25 pampering treats like bath bombs, lotions, and even a cosy home candle. Plus, it includes 10 exclusive goodies from Lush’s nostalgic Christmas collections.
One delighted reviewer shared: “I have this Advent calendar in my room and it smells incredible. Just love the vibrant colored box. Well done Lush for the products and choosing this year’s artist. I will definitely be keeping the box to use in the future.”
Pros
- 10 exclusive, limited-edition products
- Gorgeous reusable box for future use
- Eco-friendly packaging
Cons
- Heavily bath-focused, which may not suit everyone
Best wellness advent calendar for mums who love home fragrance
www.thewhitecompany.com
For anyone who enjoys a daily dose of delightful scents, the White Company Advent Calendar is a real treat. Inside, you’ll find 25 luxurious surprises, including full-sized products that feature the brand’s signature fragrances and wellness treats. The calendar’s elegant design, with its shimmering silver foiling, adds a touch of festive charm to your holiday season.
Pros
- 25 drawers (extra gift for Christmas Day)
- Features full-sized products, luxury wellness and fragrance items
- Stunning, keepsake packaging
Cons
- More fragrance-focused, less skincare or makeup variety
Size closed: L33cm x H32cm x D18cm | |
Size open: L66cm x H32cm x D9cm | |
Weight: 6.3kg |
The best beauty advent calendar for lovers of pampering products
www.fortnumandmason.com
For mums who love high-end beauty, the Fortnum’s Beauty Advent Calendar is the ultimate splurge. Worth over £1080, it’s filled with 27 premium skincare, haircare, and wellness treats from luxury brands like Sol de Janeiro and Aromatherapy Associates. With 23 full-sized products, this is pure festive indulgence.
Pros
- Over £1080 worth of products
- Features luxury brands like Sol de Janeiro and Cult51
- Includes 23 full-sized items
Cons
- Expensive, but great value for luxury lovers
The best beauty advent calendar for makeup lovers on a budget
For mums who are all about glam, the Revolution Advent Calendar offers 24 days of makeup must-haves. From glosses to brow gels, this calendar is packed with all the essentials to help you sparkle through the season.
One thrilled Amazon reviewer, Eva, raved: “This is a BEAUTIFUL advent calendar, ideal for any makeup lover. The box is impressive, and each item comes in a sparkly box wrapped in hot pink tissue paper. The calendar includes 2 lipsticks, lip liner, eyeliners, lip glosses, a lip mask, a mini sponge, eyeshadow palette, eyebrow gel, setting powder, blushes, highlighters, and more. Each day was a joy to unwrap, and the quality of the products is fantastic. I’m absolutely thrilled with this set!”
Pros
- Affordable price for 24 beauty products
- Features a wide variety of makeup products
- Great for those who love to experiment with new looks
Cons
- Makeup-focused, so it may not appeal to skincare enthusiasts
- Fewer full-sized products compared to other calendars
Manufacturer | Revolution Beauty Group |
Package dimensions | 37.7 x 29.1 x 7.2 centimetres |
Package Weight | 0.84 Kilograms |
The best skincare advent calendar
The Clarins 12-Day Women’s Advent Calendar is the perfect gift for mums who adore luxurious skincare. Featuring a curated selection of face, body, and makeup products, this eco-friendly calendar focuses on self-care routines that pamper from head to toe.
Pros
- High-quality skincare and body care routines
- Eco-designed packaging
- A great introduction to the Clarins range
Cons
- Mostly skincare-focused, with fewer makeup options
The best beauty advent calendar for Carolina Herrera fragrance lovers
www.jdwilliams.co.uk
This fragrance-filled advent calendar offers a range of Carolina Herrera’s iconic perfumes in miniature form. It’s a treat for mums who love experimenting with new scents, perfect for any occasion.
Pros
- Variety of Carolina Herrera fragrance
- Ideal for fragrance lovers
Cons
- Fragrance-focused, no skincare or makeup items
The best skincare advent calendar for vegan products
www.johnlewis.com
Inspired by William Morris’ designs, this calendar contains 24 vegan bath and body products featuring essential oils and botanical extracts. With cruelty-free formulas and FSC-certified packaging, it’s a beautiful fusion of art and wellness.
Pros
- Vegan and cruelty-free products
- Beautifully designed packaging
Cons
- Limited to bath and body care
The best wellness advent calendar for body care
www.rituals.com
The Ritual of Advent includes 24 gifts like shower foams, body scrubs, and scented candles, perfect for pampering and enhancing the festive ambiance with its beautifully designed packaging inspired by Amsterdam's canal houses.
Pros
- Variety of body care and home products
- Includes candles for a cozy atmosphere
Cons
- Limited to body care and home items
- Lower overall value compared to some high-end calendars
Why do Advent calendars have a different number of doors?
No matter what type of Advent calendar you get, you may have noticed differences in the number of doors you get to open on each one. This is usually 24 or 25, but on beauty Advent calendars, you may even find you have just 12 doors to open. If you've ever wondered why they're all different, hopefully, we can help you with some answers.
Advent calendars are designed to countdown the days until Christmas has arrived. There are 24 days in December before Christmas arrives so it is thought you don't need the 25th day on an Advent calendar because it's not part of the countdown per se. Another reason for just 24 doors on your Advent calendar is that many people believe because you'll already be receiving other presents on Christmas day, you don't need an additional treat on the 25th.
12-door advent calendars are traditionally used to follow the 12 days of Christmas that occur after the big day itself. This isn't strictly the case with beauty Advent calendars or coffee advent calendars as the reason you get fewer doors to open is due to the more luxurious nature of the products inside. If you want to use a 12-door Advent calendar in the run-up to Christmas day, just open one up every other day throughout December.
When does Advent 2024 start?
We tend to open our Advent calendars on December 1st, but this isn't actually the start of Advent every year. Advent traditionally starts on the Sunday that is four full weeks before December 25th. Advent 2024 starts on Sunday December 1 and ends, like it always does, on December 24th.
About the author
Anne Lora Scagliusi is a Senior Digital Writer at Mother & Baby. She is a Scotland-based journalist with over a decade of international writing experience, specialising in women’s health, maternal mental health, and wellness. Her work has been featured in Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, and Glamour and has appeared on several Vogue global editions. She is mum to a one-year-old bambino and lives between Italy and the UK.