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LED face masks are everywhere these days, but many seem more alike than not. It’s as if we have a Devil Wears Prada blue belt situation on our hands. So, when Shark Beauty unveiled its first foray in the skin tech space, I was intrigued — not only because I’m a fan of the brand, but because this wasn’t just any LED mask.
As the name suggests, the CryoGlow™ Cooling & LED Face Mask offers red and blue light therapy to help brighten, firm, and clear skin. However, it’s also equipped with cooling pads to depuff and wake up tired eyes. If that sounds like some seriously souped-up beauty tech, it’s because it is. Could this be the game-changer my routine needs? I set out to find out.
What is Shark’s CryoGlow mask, and how do you use it?
Per the brand, the CryoGlow face mask was developed with dermatologists and clinical trials to back its claims of reducing the appearance of fine lines and reducing breakouts within weeks. It features something called iQLED Technology™ (aka, derm-developed treatment cycles of red, blue, and deep infrared light) distributed evenly throughout the inside of the mask. But as I hinted at earlier, perhaps the biggest point of differentiation is the Cryo-inspired cooling mechanism, which claims to visibly depuff the under-eye area post-use.
What makes Shark’s CryoGlow mask special?
My CryoGlow mask is a pretty shade of powder blue (it also comes in a muted lilac), with a matching satin pouch for storage. I love that it powers up via a remote control instead of an app. (Call me old school, but I miss the days when we didn’t have an app for everything.) You can cycle through four different treatments for various concerns — acne, fine lines, a four-min express treatment, and one focused on tightening and brightening the under-eye area — which combine infrared light and red and blue LEDs (plus those cooling pads, which feel like heaven for tired, puffy eyes), so you can tailor your session based on what your skin is craving that day.
Is Shark’s CryoGlow mask worth it?
At $350, it’s among the more affordable LED masks I’ve seen — it’s still expensive but solidly less so than other popular ones on the market. (For comparison, Dr. Dennis Gross’ version retails for $455, CurrentBody’s Series 2 is $470, and Therabody’s is $650. Hollywood aesthetician Shani Darden launched an LED mask that retails for a whopping $1900.) The full-face mask feels durable but is shockingly lightweight, making it among the most comfortable ones I’ve tried, too.
I first started testing this mask out as part of my wedding skin prep, and now that I’m six months post-wedding (and almost an entire year into testing this out), I have to say: It’s still one of the most effective steps in my entire beauty routine. My biggest skin goals right now are keeping acne flareups at bay, enhancing my overall glow, and reducing inflammation. In the past, I’ve struggled with consistency in using LED masks, so they didn’t do a whole lot for me. My consensus now is that they can be a great addition to your skincare routine — but only if you commit. (It’s like sunscreen, in that sense: The best one is the one you’ll use everyday.)
Another unexpected benefit of LED masks that I don’t think gets talked about enough has nothing to do with skin. After weeks of carving out time at the end of my day for some LED therapy, I realized that it had become something I genuinely looked forward to, just to get a few minutes of not doing anything else. Sure, sometimes I’d scroll through Instagram while sitting through an eight-minute treatment, but most days, I’d just lay on my couch cuddling my dog (he doesn’t mind one bit that I’m giving Iron Man), or even close my eyes for a little meditative moment. The fact that I have healthier, happier skin to show for it? Simply a (really good) bonus.
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Of all the makeup brands — and there are far too many to count — only one consistently dominates beauty editor conversations. Enter: Merit.
If one of us has impossibly dewy skin, plumper lips, or longer lashes than usual, the question is always the same: Is it Merit? I even know one editor who insisted her makeup artist use entirely Merit products on her wedding day, and for good reason. It’s one of the few brands that makes makeup look like it’s simply part of you — like you’re wearing it, not the other way around.
Think of the brand as a step above no-makeup makeup. It keeps things natural with sheer textures and effortless sticks, yet everything can be layered for a bolder, more striking look. But with both editors and TikTok beauty enthusiasts singing its praises, which Merit products are actually worth your money?
I put $380 of Merit makeup and skincare to the test, and here’s my honest verdict.
In May, I called this the best tinted sunscreen I’d ever tried, and months later, I still stand by that. In fact, I’ve been using it ever since I discovered it. Unlike others, which can feel thick or chalky, this goes on and absorbs like a lightweight moisturizer, with medium coverage that’s enough to conceal my breakouts and dark circles. The finish sits somewhere between matte and dewy. Most tinted sunscreens fade after a few hours, but not this one. Its staying power is impressive for something so featherlight, and it always feels comfortable. That said, I don’t rely on it for sunscreen alone — I always layer it over a dedicated SPF.
I’ll be honest: I didn’t think I’d enjoy using this, but it’s quickly become my go-to concealer. As someone with acne-prone skin, I’ve always been told to avoid creamy stick products because they often contain pore-clogging waxes. While this does have some waxes on the ingredient list, it remarkably doesn’t break me out. I usually use it to spot-conceal, tapping it in with my fingers, and I’m always impressed by the coverage and how well it tucks away redness. When I’m feeling too lazy for “proper” makeup, I scribble it all over my face and blend with a dense, fluffy brush. The result feels like a light tint with the pigment of a foundation, but it always looks like my skin, and never like a mask.
I’ll admit I wasn’t a big fan of Flush Balm the first time I tried it — but that was because I had the completely wrong shade. My advice: go slightly darker than you think. Since the product is pretty sheer, it needs to be built up if you want a bolder blush look. Here, I’m wearing Le Bon Bon, a stunning fuchsia pink, and I’m starting to think I’ll never go back to the other blushes in my makeup bag. It gives my cheeks the most natural, just-come-in-from-the-cold flush. My partner even noticed and complimented my makeup. Thanks to the creamy texture, it doesn’t last quite as long as I’d like, but a quick layer of translucent powder fixes that. If you don’t want to swipe it directly onto your foundation (I hate transfer!), tap a dense brush over the dome of the product and apply it that way.
I was pleasantly surprised by how effortlessly this glided onto my skin and how quickly it blended — the texture is that silky. Sometimes foundation can flatten my features, but this product brings depth back in. I use it in the hollows of my cheeks to define my bone structure, down the center of my nose, and across my temples for a sun-kissed glow, and even on my eyelids as a natural-looking eyeshadow. It layers beautifully under Flush Balm, though if you want it to last all day, a setting powder is a must.
I usually skip highlighter, but the marbled look of this domed stick was so mesmerizing, I had to try it — and I’m glad I did. It literally looks and feels like dewy skincare, thanks to moisturizing squalane and skin-healing vitamins and amino acids. It contains ultra-fine pearl pigments but never looks dusty or glittery. Instead, it gives a gorgeous, natural gloss that only improves as your skin’s oils blend with it throughout the day. Here, I applied some in the inner corners of my eyes, and I’m convinced it makes me appear more awake.
Ok, this is my new favorite eyeshadow. I can never be bothered with two or three shades, and smoky eyes are absolutely not my skill set, but a single wash of color can take my makeup from meh to next level, tying together blush, bronzer, and lips in perfect harmony. Here, I’m wearing Studio, which the brand calls a “cool taupe.” It leans slightly bronze without any orange, so it looks like it belongs on my eyes. The best part, though, is how effortlessly it applies. You could use your finger, but I go with a fluffy brush — the blend is seamless, and it takes just 10 seconds to create this look. Even better? It lasts much longer than other cream eyeshadows I’ve tried, and because it dries down to a soft powder, it barely creases.
I wasn’t sure how I’d get this pencil through my thick brows — it’s that fine — but it’s exactly what I needed. Using it actually made me realize how bad the pencil I was using before really was. Because it’s so precise, you can fill in the gaps, mimicking the finest, softest brow hairs without anything looking blocky. The spoolie on the end lets you feather it out if you go a little heavy. Just don’t press too hard, or you’ll snap the nib in half and lose it down the sink.
Brow pomades are usually too wet and messy, but this one is just right. My brows are naturally quite dark, but this adds the perfect finishing touch after the pencil, locking my thick hairs in place without making them feel stiff or greasy like others. On lazy days, I’ll just run the brush through, and it instantly gives my brows more volume. I also love that the tapered brush lets you define the inner and outer corners without any smudging.
Because this lip liner is so sheer, it doesn’t stick around for very long. That said, it’s so moisturizing that reapplying is easy. Sometimes I don’t even bother looking in the mirror; I just scribble it on and smudge it out with my fingers. My lips are chronically dry, and most liners only make that worse, but this one glides on beautifully, thanks to the jojoba oil. Most days, I use this as my lipstick, enlisting a fluffy brush to blend it out and blur the edges.
To me, this feels more like a tinted lip balm than a true lipstick — the name says it all, I guess! It glides on easily, giving a satin-like veil of color that feels moisturizing, thanks to squalane and sunflower seed oil. It only lasts a couple of hours on me, but because it’s so soft and lightweight, I just swipe it on like a balm. Here I’m wearing Slip, though I tend to prefer the pinker shades on my olive skin. I also wish the packaging felt a bit more luxe.
This mascara takes a bit of work — three to four coats in my experience — but the result is the most naturally fluttery lashes. It has an old-school bristle brush that requires slow, deliberate combing to build up layers, rather than a silicone brush that deposits product instantly. That actually worked in my favor, because it didn’t leave any clumps. Instead, my lashes looked long and fluffy, almost like falsies. The best part is that it’s a tubing mascara that comes off with just warm water. Tubing formulas are also less likely to smudge or flake, and this one never does. I’m already on my third tube.
Most lip oils I’ve tried feel like a lip gloss in disguise, but this one is different. It isn’t sticky at all, so you don’t have to worry about it trapping hair when you step outside. Quinoa seed oil is the star ingredient, acting like skincare for your lips by deeply moisturizing and supporting the skin barrier — the outer layer that keeps moisture in and bacteria out. The tint is subtle but lovely, and I like layering it over lipstick for a soft, glossy boost. Because it’s an oil rather than a gloss, it sinks in fairly quickly, so to pop in your purse for touch-ups.
This is such a quenching moisturizer, and even though it’s designed to prime skin for makeup, I often wear it on its own for a glow boost. Moisturizing glycerin and hydrating hyaluronic acid are the stars, while skin-strengthening peptides support healing, and collagen and elastin help keep skin supple. It doesn’t contain any reflective pigments, but you wouldn’t guess that, considering the natural dew it gives dry skin. Even better, it’s non-comedogenic, so it’s much less likely to clog pores or cause breakouts. When I use this, my makeup lasts noticeably longer than it does over other moisturizers.
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This holiday season, we’ve found the gifts that feel great to get and even better to give. Shop our collection of editor-approved holiday gift guides here.
When it comes to office mandated-holiday festivities, White Elephant gift exchanges are easily the most chaotic. While maybe you don't need a nightlight that looks like a despirited duck, but someone you know definitely does. That's why we've scouted for Amazon White Elephant gifts, and lucky for you, they all come in under $25.
Shopping playfully and on a stocking stuffer budget is not always the easiest task. Unless you've got a closet full of knick-knacks to re-gift, you’re going to need a new arsenal of affordable grab-bag treasures. Keep clicking for this year's delightful bounty of White Elephant gifts from Amazon, ranging from the sweet and sentimental to the straight-up silly. (Though all are guaranteed to make a statement.)
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Dr. Paw Paw The Grinch Set
Even the Grinchiest of coworkers will agree: Winter can be a tough time for dry lips — enter, this minty lip scrub and balm to the rescue.
Dr. PawPaw The Grinch Set - Candy Cane Lip Scrub and Lip Balm, $, available at Amazon
Momofuku Black Truffle Chili Crunch
Hot sauce is a classic White Elephant crowd pleaser. Kick things up a notch with this truffle-infused chili crisp, which packs a punch in terms of flavor and texture.
Momofuku Black Truffle Chili Crunch, $, available at Amazon
MUID Lying Flat Duck Night Light
We're channeling this duck this winter, especially as the days get darker quicker. This adorable squeezable night light is suitable for children and adults — it also doubles as a phone rest.
MUID Benson Lying Flat Duck Night Light, $, available at Amazon
AvoSeedo Avocado Tree Growing Kit with Pot
Whether your gift exchange group has some green thumbs or plant-killers in it, anyone who gets this gift will find no trouble keeping their avocado tree alive and well.
AvoSeedo Avocado Tree Growing Kit with Pot, $, available at Amazon
DuoMuo Retro Vinyl Player Holder & Record Coasters
This coaster set is great for music lovers (or generally anyone who has a bad habit of setting their cold drinks on wooden tables). It even features genuine vinyl art from bands like The Beatles and Pink Floyd.
DuoMuo Funny Retro Record Coasters for Drinks, $, available at Amazon
Aigori Funny Excel Mug
This one is certain to get a giggle or two, especially if you're gifting a co-worker. (Just make sure your recipient is in on the joke to avoid getting a warning from HR.)
Aigori Funny Excel Coffee Mug, $, available at Amazon
KOREDA Compatible with AirPods Case Cover
Treat one of your jet-setting friends with this quirky nod to their favorite pastime. They can use them on one of their many travels, near or far, clipping it onto their keys or bag for extra security.
KOREDA Compatible with AirPods Case Cover, $, available at Amazon
Anakz Cereal Candle Bowl - Vanilla Scented
No, this isn't a bowl of your childhood favorite cereal — it's a delicious, vanilla candle that infuses a hint of whimsy to any space.
Anakz Cereal Candle Bowl - Vanilla Scented Food Candles, $, available at Amazon
HauSun 2 Pairs Chopsticks and Chopstick Rest Gift Set
It’s hard to believe this beautifully crafted gift set costs only $14. We bet any foodies in your group will love their own chopstick set, complete with the cutest panda-shaped rests.
HauSun 2 Pairs Chopsticks and Chopstick Rest Gift Set, $, available at Amazon
Caulikine Vintage Retro Bluetooth Speaker
A portable speaker so pretty they’ll proudly display it on their desk or bookshelf.
Caulikine Vintage Retro Bluetooth Speaker, $, available at Amazon
OTOTO The Original Nessie Ladle
Whether they’re a whiz in the kitchen or are best known for burning water, this is sure to go down a treat. Who can resist a helpful little guy standing to attention, ready to ladle their soups, stews, and experimental concoctions?
OTOTO The Original Nessie Ladle, $, available at Amazon
UODBUYO Mini Humidifier
Freshen up their dry office space with this sweet succulent desk friend.
Breakfast lovers and aesthetic fiends alike will be excited to open this one. You’re about to totally upgrade their weekend mornings, one tasty heart-shaped waffle at a time.
Dash Mini Maker for Individual Waffles, $, available at Amazon
Genuine Fred Giddy UP Phone Stand
This may first appear a simple novelty, but it’s actually super helpful and thoughtful. Whether they’re cramming a sandwich in at their desk and catching up on TikToks, or watching a downloaded film on their commute home, they’ll come to love and rely on this quirky phone stand.
Genuine Fred Giddy UP Phone Stand, $, available at Amazon
Jaws Playing Cards
Aquarius Jaws Playing Cards, $, available at Amazon
ODISTAR Desktop Vacuum Cleaner
Small but mighty, this is a great choice for an office White Elephant, especially if you don’t know your team super well or don’t feel so comfortable with a novelty gift. Rather, this is practical but also strangely fun — we bet they’ll love being able to finally clean all those crumbs out of their keyboard.
ODISTAR Desktop Vacuum Cleaner, $, available at Amazon
Ban.do Sticker Book
$13 for over 700 stickers? Their junk journaling and scrapbooking are about to majorly level up, and all thanks to you.
This is sure to be a popular gift throughout winter — especially for those who menstruate and have painful period cramps, or who suffer from chronic pain. (Best used while snacking on some warmed Frosted Strawberry 'Tarts.)
Happy Helpers Microwavable Pop-Tarts™ Heating Pad, $, available at Amazon
Azvegr Multi USB Charging Adapter Cable Kit
With just $8 you’re about to change their world. No longer will your giftee need to fuss with detangling wires or find they have the wrong charging cable, this handy little kit offers all the different types of USB adapters they could need, and keeps everything neat and compact (it’s small enough to fit in their purse so great for travel too).
Azvegr Multi USB Charging Adapter Cable Kit, $, available at Amazon
Meguo Mini Karaoke Machine Microphone
Kids and adults alike will be all over this. We love that it comes with two microphones, meaning they can share their joy with a loved one — whether that’s for an impromptu living room performance, or a tipsy office Christmas carols sing-along.
MEGUO Mini Karaoke Machine Microphone, $, available at Amazon
Pandaloo Glass Cup With Lid and Straw
Whether they’re never seen without an iced coffee in hand or are all about homemade smoothies, this reusable glass cup and straw will go down a treat.
Pandaloo Glass Cup With Lid and Straw, $, available at Amazon
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Minor spoilers forEmily in ParisSeason 5 ahead.Emily In Paris is back for another season of champagne-fueled chaos, couture-level escapism, and questionable romantic decisions, all wrapped in a brightly-filtered fantasy where the stakes are low, the outfits are loud, and the drama is deliciously unserious. If you’ve been watching the show for four seasons, you know that it’s usually Emily (Lily Collins) in the midst of an ill-advised cobblestone alleyway makeout and while her bestie Mindy (Ashley Park) is no stranger to a love triangle, she’s usually the one dishing out advice for Emily on her messy entanglements instead of finding herself wrapped up in them herself. Not this season.
Enter the scandal no one saw coming but everyone will have an opinion on: Alfie and Mindy. Yes, that Alfie (Lucien Laviscount) — Emily’s charming, handsome, British, jilted, (did I mention handsome?) ex — and Mindy, the glitter-soaked pop princess whose devotion to Emily is as strong as her impressive vocals. At the end of last season, Mindy was single, fresh off a breakup with Nico (Park’s real-life ex, Paul Forman), and moving on from Benoît (Kevin Dias) and her band after they got disqualified from Eurovision. This season, she flees to Rome to join Emily and outrun her problems, and runs straight into Alfie. Of course, drama is destined to ensue after you sleep with your best friend’s ex, and it would be easy to write this off as a Season 5 gimmick the writers threw in because they were searching for storylines, but the Alfie and Mindy hookup feels fresh.
When we first heard about this might be a plot line, I really thought it was a joke, and I called [Lily], and I was like, ‘Wait, what’s going on’?
First of all, the chemistry between Park and Laviscount is surprisingly steamy considering they’ve interacted onscreen for seasons without even a hint of a spark. But this season, it’s electric. What begins as a “when in Rome” moment (sparked by boredom, champagne, and more champagne) detonates into the most deliciously messy hookup the series has ever served, threatening the fragile ecosystem of Emily’s inner circle. Like moving the series to Rome (temporarily), the new relationship has injected a much-needed jolt into a series that had been floundering under pretty clothes, quips about Parisian cliches, and not much else. This unsuspecting situationship is exactly what the show needed.
I tell Park and Collins how much I’m feeling Alfie and Mindy together over Zoom during the show’s press junket. The real-life best friends are in Paris, naturally. “I’ve been so nervous how people are going to [react]!” Park says, relieved. Collins chimes in: “That’s great. We love that!”
When I ask for more of their thoughts on Alfie and Mindy and the ethics of hooking up with your best friend’s ex, Park has a lot to say. “The main thing in terms of girl code and your best friend’s ex [is] first of all, Emily broke up with Alfie, there were a couple relationships [in between], there’s time that’s passed,” Park says. “I think that the hurt that is caused is because [Emily and Mindy] have always been each other’s safe place, and they’ve always been nothing but honest with each other. And for Mindy to be leading her life out of fear and assuming and projecting that Emily’s gonna feel a certain way towards it, and not giving her the opportunity to be happy for her, that’s not friendship. It’s the first time we see that tested.”
As a viewer, the Alfie-Mindy situation feels both deeply wrong and impossibly right, raising thorny questions about loyalty, desire, and whether a friendship can withstand this kind of betrayal. But Park sees it differently: “It’s not necessarily about, oh, you slept with my ex, it’s how could you not trust that I would be so happy for you? When we first heard about this might be a plot line, I really thought it was a joke, and I called [Lily], and I was like, ‘Wait, what’s going on’? But it’s because I didn’t see how the story was going to blossom and flourish and in the end really deepen their sisterhood. And I think that’s something we really enjoyed doing.”
It’s not necessarily about, oh, you slept with my ex, it’s how could you not trust that I would be so happy for you?
ashley park on emily’s reaction to alfie hookup
Collins agrees, but when it comes to Emily’s love life, her advice for her character is to stay away from the drama. “It’s okay to not have somebody that you’re interested in. Like, you don’t have to have somebody to be somebody,” Collins says. It’s a lesson that Emily is learning in real time this season as she starts a new romance with Marcello (Eugenio Franceschini) in Rome. But will Emily dive back into a serious relationship so soon after ending things with Gabriel (Lucas Bravo)? Collins teases that with a new gig and new city comes a new outlook for Emily: “This year, we get to see her just being okay and saying this isn’t for me, and not being afraid of what the other person is going to say,” she says. “It’s the first time she’s been really honest with the person she’s talking to in her romantic life. I love that because I think there’s societal pressure for people who are single to want to be in a relationship. But there’s such a beautiful thing about Emily being single and being like, here’s my focus, and here I am. I think that’s really cool.”
It’s also cool that Emily (via Collins) has a new, sharp bob this season. Usually, when a female character comes back from a hiatus with shorter hair, it’s because she’s shedding layers after a breakup (Felicity from Felicity) or as a cruel punishment (Aria in Pretty Little Liars), mostly because of a man. Emily’s bob is barely even explained this season, and Collins loves that decision. “She didn’t even need to explain it,” she says. “It was just like a life choice. She’s like, Okay, I’m gonna change my hair. So what?”
She didn’t even need to explain [the bob]. It was just like a life choice. She’s like, Okay, I’m gonna change my hair. So what?”
lily collins on emily’s new bob haircut
You’ll have to turn into Emily In Paris Season 5 to see if Emily is just as chill about Alfie and Mindy. This season dares us to decide if their hookup is a betrayal or the most honest thing either of them have done all series. I’m going with the latter. Both Alfie and Mindy have been done dirty in the romance department over the seasons and it’s time they get their happily ever after. I just hope it’s together. I also love seeing an interracial couple on mainstream TV that doesn’t involve a white person because that representation is still so rare. Let’s just forget that Alfie and Mindy’s pairing comes with a side of betrayal. Hey, we watch Emily in Paris for the escape, the eye-candy, the kissing, and the outfits. It’s a fantasy that thrives on us turning off our brains for a bit and sinking into the comforting belief that even the most unlikely connections can feel inevitable… especially in Paris! Or Rome? Or whatever European adventure the show wants to take us on next. Emily In ParisSeason 5is streaming now on Netflix.
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It’s time to put on our warmest scarf because winter is finally here! December 21st marks the onset of a new season and the sun’s entrance into Capricorn. Yuletide, which is the shortest day of the year, brings more than feel good movies; it is considered a moment when we connect with those we care about and reminisce about the good old days. The dip in the outside temperature warms our hearts by bringing us closer together. Also, we get to put on our flannel pajamas and drink hot chocolate while romancing, reconciling, and reminiscing during the Winter Solstice. As the holidays and new year approach, we are reminded that we are all united and that it’s essential to help others, not just ourselves. Bring positivity to the world! Spread the love!
Read your horoscopes for your Sun and Rising signs for the most in-depth forecast.
Aries
As you enter the last days of 2025, a rare and exciting opportunity arises at work. Before impulsively taking on the gig or promotion, ensure that you have a clear emotional discourse and seek advice from others before making a decision. If you play your cards right, you may be able to set a contract on your terms, which will be more beneficial to you.
Taurus
Taking a cooking or art class (you should venture out of town for a retreat) might enrich your talents, allowing you to understand that you are gifted and have much to give. You’ll be the top student, getting praise from the teacher and peers. The compliments are uplifting, urging you to take this topic seriously. In time, you’ll be the one educating and inspiring others.
Gemini
Even though you might not realize it, you have the chance to manifest the life you want. You are not aware of your magic and strength until now, so enhancing and enchanting your soul and spirit is key. You’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish when you are intentional about your goals. Believe in yourself and all you do. You got this, Gemini!
Cancer
Consider taking a chance by expressing your heartfelt sentiments. Being open to those you care about will jump start a new beginning in the relationship. You’ll be able to bounce ideas off each other and share your innermost thoughts. Yule ignites the onset of a beautiful partnership. The season seems bright knowing that you’ll be able to power through with the support of your squad.
Leo
This is a moment in which you can thrive, both mentally and physically. If there are any patterns or habits that you would like to improve upon, now is your chance to do so. You can start by engaging in wellness rituals (like yoga, meditation, or a hike) that connect to your body, mind, and spirit. The endeavor relaxes your aura, making tiy more mindful.
Virgo
The solstice urges you to plan a party with friends and invite loved ones. The group effort will not only bring you closer together, but the process will also allow you to see that you have much in common, from the theme and decor to the food being served. It will be a blast having a reason to spend time with your besties.
Libra
Dorothy Gale wasn’t wrong when she said: “There’s no place like home.” Remember that your dwelling provides safety and comfort, which is why you’re in the mood to get cozy and snuggle up in bed with movies. If you decide to be social, host a few of your closest family members for a low-key lunch to reflect on old memories and to discuss what’s coming ahead.
Scorpio
You possess many excellent qualities, and it’s time for you to showcase your true self. Stop holding back and controlling how people perceive you. To cultivate genuine relationships, you must be your authentic self at all times. Chances are that people will accept you and adore the person you are on the inside. Let them get an insider peek instead of hiding who you are.
Sagittarius
Your leadership skills are on fire! For the first time in a while, you’re taking charge and making moves at the office. No one will stand in the way of your ability to connect with colleagues and have them join forces as a team to crush the competition. The same applies to impending holiday bonuses. Your motto: “All for one and one for all!”
Capricorn
The sun shines on you, Capricorn! You will relish in popularity and awesomeness, helping you invigorate your vigor and fierceness. In honor of your return from hibernation, try to design a day of pampering that centers around doing what makes you feel extraordinary. Special activities, such as going to a concert or getting a pedicure, can be uplifting and cathartic to your energy and vibes.
Aquarius
Only you can figure out what makes you happy and how you can advance in life. Trusting your intuition will guide you forward. The moment you let go of your rational way of processing situations, the easier it will be to get to the bottom of situations. Additionally, it will feel good to trust your instincts and listen to what your heart is telling you.
Pisces
We often take the community we live in for granted, which means your sensitive nature may wish to give back to the neighborhood by doing volunteer and humanitarian work. No matter what you choose to partake in, the objective is to pay it forward. Being part of something bigger than yourself allows you to see that you can change the world with kindness and compassion.
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Content warning: This article discusses violence in a way that may be distressing to some readers. It was original published on Refinery29’s Australia edition.
On the first night of Hanukkah, beneath the quintessential glow of a Sydney summer evening, globally beloved and iconic Bondi Beach turned from a scene of joy to one of terror. Families and friends had gathered for a festive beachfront celebration, lighting the menorah and singing songs, when gunfire shattered the laughter. Two gunmen, a father and son armed with rifles, opened fire on the crowd, killing at least 15 people (including a child) and injuring dozens more. One attacker was shot dead by police, and the other was wounded and arrested amid the chaos. Australian authorities swiftly declared it a terrorist attack motivated by antisemitic hatred, an assault on the Jewish community that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said “struck at the heart of the nation”. What should have been a night of light and hope became Australia’s worst mass shooting in nearly 30 years.
The next morning, Bondi’s sands lay empty and silent, an unheard-of phenomenon for one of the most popular shorelines in the country, save for investigators pacing the cordoned-off area. Since then, the stories and the heroism of bystanders who tried to stop the shooters have dominated headlines. Yet the impact of this attack cannot be measured only in lives lost or injuries. Its shockwaves have rippled far beyond those who stood on the sand that night; the tragedy has seared itself into the psyche of people around the world, including many who were nowhere near Bondi Beach when it happened.
Beyond The Shore
Not even in the hours after the attack, but during, phones pinged with news alerts across Australia and overseas. Many who read the headlines or watched grainy and graphic videos felt a chill of grief and fear. It didn’t matter that they were seeing it through a screen; their hearts broke, and their fear was felt in real time. In Sydney, thousands gathered at vigils the next day, mourners at Bondi laid flowers and sang prayers under the open sky. Similar tributes appeared in other cities, in Melbourne, in London outside the Australian High Commission, and beyond — a sign that the world was mourning with Bondi.
“Collective trauma can impact how we view the world and how we see ourselves in it — the social norms and security we were used to are challenged, making us feel unsafe and unsure, and grieving the world we understood,” explains Mental Health Therapist Tammi Miller.
These are valid feelings — the goalposts of our beliefs have been moved, and we’re trying to redefine what they are. With a big event like the Bondi attack, we’re also being fed new information over hours and days, meaning those goalposts continue to shift. It’s a lot of work mentally, and we can feel exhausted, overwhelmed and anxious.
tammi miller, Mental Health Therapist
According to Principal Psychologist at Umeed Psychology, Anushka Phal, this reaction is a form of collective trauma or vicarious trauma. “Humans don’t exist in isolation; we’re part of communities,” Phal describes this as identity-based trauma: “For people with histories of trauma, chronic stress, racism, gender-based violence, or migration stress, the nervous system is already primed to ask: Am I safe? Am I next? The body doesn’t treat it as ‘news’ — it treats it as confirmation.” She adds: “Even secondhand exposure can activate the threat system — particularly in a 24/7 media environment. The nervous system doesn’t respond to logic; it responds to danger cues, which can show up as hypervigilance, irritability, flatness, grief, and even physical symptoms.”
Decades of research on vicarious traumatization show that people can develop stress symptoms from simply hearing about or seeing footage of violent events. Our brains, in a sense, replay the horror as if we were there. One study even found that individuals with no prior trauma who watched distressing news reports showed symptoms of secondary traumatic stress, such as anxiety, nightmares, and feelings of helplessness. In the case of the Bondi attack, it brutally resonated far and wide – from the Jewish community in Sydney to anyone who has ever set foot on Bondi.
As Rachel Tomlinson, a Sydney-based therapist (and one of many professionals volunteering at community support sessions this week), points out: “Trauma is processed through the nervous system first, not the thinking brain. That’s why people feel sick, shaky, or disconnected — the body is responding to a perceived threat even before we can name the emotion.”
She continues, “Even indirect exposure — like media — can activate this system. Freeze or dissociation responses are just as real as panic. You might feel emotionally flat, stuck, or spaced out. It’s a survival response, not weakness.”
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – DECEMBER 15: Candles are lit at the Bondi Pavilion as people pay tribute to the victims of a mass shooting at Bondi Beach yesterday, on December 15, 2025. Police say at least 16 people, including one suspected gunman, were killed and more than 40 others injured when two attackers opened fire near a Hanukkah celebration at the world-famous Bondi Beach, in what authorities have declared a terrorist incident. (Photo by Izhar Khan/Getty Images)
Coping With The Invisible Wounds
1. Mental health experts emphasize that your feelings are valid. Even if you were not physically present. There’s no need to say, “I wasn’t there, so I shouldn’t be this upset.” Grief, anger, fear, outrage, and numbness, all of these are natural responses. “Give yourself permission to feel whatever comes,” advises Anushka Phal. “Don’t bottle it up just because you weren’t at the scene. You’re human, and at our core, humans care about each other.” Acknowledging the pain is a first step to healing. That might mean talking to friends or family about how the news affected you, or writing down your thoughts in a journal. Some find comfort in attending vigils or religious services to honor the victims, as coming together in solidarity can ease the sense of powerlessness. Others might light a candle at home or say a prayer as a personal act of remembrance.
2. Limiting media exposure is another important coping strategy. While it’s natural to seek information after a traumatic event, endlessly scrolling through graphic images or videos can retraumatize you. “Being unable to control when or what imagery you see following an event like the Bondi attack can make it difficult to self-regulate,” says Miller. “Repeated exposure can trigger a stress response — difficulty sleeping, irritability, trouble concentrating. It’s important to remember that you are safe in these moments, to look around you and name three things you can see, touch, feel, practise deep breathing and centering, and definitely to seek support from a confidant or trained mental health professional.”
3. Connecting with others is crucial in these times. The Bondi Beach community has exemplified this – within 24 hours, thousands of people gathered to comfort one another, sing together, and remind themselves that they are not alone. Whether you attend a local vigil or simply call a friend to talk, sharing your feelings can lighten the emotional load. Sometimes just hearing someone say “I feel it too” can be profoundly validating. If your distress persists or feels overwhelming, consider reaching out to a mental health professional. Therapists are aware that indirect trauma is real and can help you work through it. There is no shame in seeking help; it doesn’t matter that “it didn’t happen to me,” what matters is that it affected you, and getting support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
4. Finally, it can be healing to channel your emotions into positive action. Donate to a victims fund. Support crisis lines like Lifeline, which are seeing a huge surge in calls and will continue to through the holidays. Volunteer your time if you have capacity — or if you don’t, drop off a meal, check in on a friend, walk someone home. Acts of care don’t need to be big to matter. They just need to happen.
Finding Light After The Darkness
In the days since the attack, the golden sands of Bondi have been blanketed with flowers, candles, and handwritten messages. Strangers hug each other on the promenade, united in grief. The air carries the mingled scents of saltwater and candle wax as the sun sets each evening over a beach that is healing from trauma seen and unseen. The emotional wounds from that night will take time to mend, and some scars may never fully fade. But amid the sorrow, there is a steadfast resolve that the forces of hatred will not break the spirit of the community.
You don’t have to be at the centre of an event to be affected by it. Being human, compassionate and empathic means being impacted by violence and loss, especially when it hits close to home or touches your identity. Minimizing your pain only prolongs it.
RACHEL TOMLINSON, REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST
For anyone struggling with heavy emotions after this tragedy, know that you are entitled to those feelings, they speak to your empathy, and that with time and support, the fear and anguish can evolve into strength and meaning.
Further Support
Mental Health Support (NSW): – Walk-in help available daily at Intercontinental Coogee (8am – 8pm).
– Safe Haven at Sydney Children’s Hospital for young people (10am – 7:30pm).
– NSW clinicians are also on the ground at Bondi and Coogee; look for bright vests.
Find A Psychologist: – Tala Thrive: A directory that helps you find culturally responsive and trauma-informed therapists across Australia.
– Australian Psychological Society: The largest peak professional body for psychologists and psychology in Australia.
– Check with your GP: Many psychologists can only be accessed with a mental health care plan referral, which allows you to claim Medicare rebates.
– University Clinics: If cost is a barrier, psychology clinics at universities often offer low-fee sessions with provisional psychologists under supervision.
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This holiday season, we’ve found the gifts that feel great to get and even better to give. Shop our collection of editor-approved holiday gift guides here.
If there’s someone on your shopping list who lives for their next vacation (and maybe takes the saying "catch flights, not feelings" a bit too literally), you can’t go wrong with giving them a travel gift this holiday season. The challenge lies in sourcing the right present to support their passion — after all, they’ve probably seen everything on their adventures, and will have an equally discerning eye for weekender bags and airport outfits.
But, fret not, this is where our tingling shopping senses come in: We’ve searched high and low for the luxury travel gifts and packing must-haves that’ll make your giftee's next journey the five-star experience they deserve. No matter their preferred travel method or most frequent travel plans — from vacations to work trips — we’ve compiled a range of practical, luxurious, and thoughtful presents. Think everything from versatile carry-on bags, cozy neck pillows, and stylish earplugs for long-haul flights; hard-shell cases, travel-size skincare, and roomy toiletry bags for train journeys; along with chic travel journals, compressive packing cubes, and compact reusable bottles for road trips.
And while this list contains some of the most luxe gifts, many of the travel accessories included can be found on Amazon or cost under $50, proving that high quality doesn’t necessarily mean expensive or unattainable. Just order them ASAP so they arrive on time!
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
Solgaard Check-In Closet Suitcase
With an expandable shelving system that unfurls into a mini closet with five compartments, this check-in bag is perfect for someone who hates packing (and unpacking). Aside from the genius clothing organizer, it’s also kitted out with whisper-quiet wheels and ergonomic handles. And if you’re looking for a smaller style, consider the editor-tested carry-on size.
Solgaard Check-In Closet Trunk, $, available at Solgaard
Solgaard Carry-On Closet Suitcase, $, available at Solgaard
Manta Sound Sleep Mask
We promise that your giftee doesn’t have anything like this luxe tech accessory. Light sleepers will especially appreciate a black-out sleep mask that doubles as Bluetooth headphones so they can drown out airplane noise with their own relaxing playlists or white noise.
Manta Sleep Sound Sleep Mask New Gen, $, available at Manta Sleep
Summer Fridays Jet Lag Essentials Set
This budget-friendly skincare set will get you the best gift-giver award. It features top-rated Summer Fridays products from its hydrating Jet Lag collection: eye patches, hydration mist, lightweight serum, and a full-sized moisturizing mask (that’s still travel-friendly).
We love Bombas socks for everyday wear, but the brand also offers compression socks perfect for long flights and long hikes alike. For an extra-luxurious touch, the merino wool options are extra comfy and warm.
Bombas Merino Wool Blend Everyday Compression Socks, $, available at Bombas
Lululemon 2-in-1 Travel Duffle Backpack
Who doesn’t love a multifunctional present? This sleek Lululemon travel bag has several straps to carry it as a flat duffle bag or an extra-large backpack. It’s the perfect travel companion for short work flights, weekend road trips, and train journeys alike.
Lululemon 2-in-1 Travel Duffle Backpack 45L, $, available at Lululemon
Bey-Berk Leather Travel Sunglasses Roll
We’ve simply lost track of the number of times a pair of treasured sunglasses went missing while on vacation. With this leather scroll organizer, your giftee will travel with ease knowing that their favorite shades are all in one place.
Bey-Berk Leather Travel Sunglasses Roll, $, available at Nordstrom
Memobottle Slim Sleeved 15oz Water Bottle
This slender BPA-free reusable bottle is ready to be packed up (comfortably in your giftee’s personal item) and toted around across the world. The soft silicone sleeve and durable stainless steel cap are especially travel-friendly. It's yet another under-$100 Free People gift we're adding to our wishlist.
Memobottle Slim Sleeved 15oz Water Bottle, $, available at Free People
FujiFilm Instax Mini EVO Camera with Instant Film
Got a photography lover on your list? This retro-style camera will help capture all their adventures and memories on film. This set even comes with film and more handy accessories to make set up seamless (because just like children who don't want to wait for their parents add batteries into Christmas toys before playing, your giftee will want to start taking holiday photos immediately).
Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO Camera with Instant Film, $, available at Amazon
Nori The Nori Press
This sleek travel iron is the perfect touch-up tool for someone who travels a lot. Designed like a hair straightener, its dual-heating plates glide over fabric to smooth out creases in seconds. It comes with six heat settings tailored for different materials, including linen, wool, and silk. The best part? Your giftee won’t have to bother with setting up an ironing board.
We’d be delighted to be gifted any skincare or body care from Aēsop. But the luxury brand’s curated travel gifts are ideal for the jet-setter on your list. This set includes a body cleanser and hand balm to help wash up and wind down after long travel days.
Aesop Greetings in the Guest Room Set, $, available at Aesop
Dagne Dover Seoul Dopp Kit
Every seasoned traveler knows you can never own too many pouches, especially when they’re from Dagne Dover. This toiletry bag makes a lovely new home for your giftee’s beauty essentials (and even tech accessories), and the waterproof lining keeps the rest of their suitcase safe from any accidental spilling.
Dagne Dover Seoul Dopp Kit, $, available at Dagne Dover
Barefoot Dreams Cozychic Cable Travel Set
Your giftee will appreciate anything that elevates a long-haul flight, like this extra-cozy blanket, sock, and sleep mask bundle from Barefoot Dreams. The plush and silky fabrics will definitely stand above anything the airline offers.
BAREFOOT DREAMS® Cozychic Cable Travel Set, $, available at Revolve
Ries The Essential Refillable Travel Container Gift Set
With this stylish TSA-friendly, air-tight, refillable bottle set, your giftee will always have their favorite toiletries — like serums, shampoos, and sunscreens — on the road with them.
Ríes The Essential Refillable Travel Container Gift Set, $, available at Sephora
Béis The Compression Packing Cubes 4 pc
At this point, packing cubes are a packing must-have for most seasoned travelers. But on the off chance you don’t think your giftee owns any (or simple needs more), we recommend this Béis compression set, which can flatten for maximum luggage space.
Béis The Compression Packing Cubes 4 pc, $, available at Béis
Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow
A tried-and-true travel accessory, Ostrachpillow’s neck pillow is the gift that keeps on giving. And we think this sage green design is an especially chic option that looks as luxurious as it feels.
OstrichPillow Go Neck Pillow, $, available at Ostrichpillow
MicBG Personalized Leather AirTag Keychain
Spoiler: a luxury gift doesn’t have to be expensive! These under-$20 personalized leather Airtag holders are the perfect example. You can even pair it with a new AirTag for a fleshed-out under-$50 luxury gift. These little luxuries even make for elevated stocking stuffers for everyone on your list.
MicBG Personalized Leather AirTag Keychain, $, available at Etsy
Leatherology Laptop Envelope Organizer
With an embossed Italian-grain leather exterior and a lush microsuede lining (plus an extra interior pocket), this laptop sleeve will help your giftee make a polished first impression on business trips. The option to add personalized initials makes for an even more thoughtful gift.
Leatherology Laptop Envelope Organizer, $, available at Leatherology
Away The Train Case
This structured and compact carrier may just become a go-to organizer for the traveler in your life, especially thanks to the multiple straps and handles. Perfect for storing everything from cosmetics to tech gadgets, the adjustable dividers allow for customization and the hard-shell case ensures your belongings are protected. (We recommend Away's glossy Salt White colorway for an elevated look!)
These teensy earplugs may not seem like the most luxurious gift at first glance, but they’ll come in handy when your giftee is trying to sleep in a hotel room with poor soundproofing or airplane with rowdy passengers. The soft and pointy silicone tips significantly reduce low-level and moderate noise without causing any discomfort in the ear.
A small travel journal — like this minimalist Papier design — with sectioned prompt pages is a thoughtful gift for those who want to plan out their trips and jot down their travel memories all in one spot. You can even add a free gift note at checkout for a personalized touch.
Have your giftee travel in style with this metallic hard-shell carry-on suitcase that’s surprisingly lightweight. Bonus points for it having an extra front pocket to store laptops for easy access and tons of interior pockets for extra organization.
Calpak Ambeur Front Pocket Carry-On Luggage, $, available at Calpak
Cadence Pillcase Set
Matching, chic, and compact containers are always a winning travel companion (and gift). And Cadence’s magnetic capsules are top tier. This pillcase set, which helps organize medicine and supplements for every day of the week, is a unique gift. (But any of the other bundles are also great for holding skincare and even jewelry.)
Cadence Pillcase Capsules, $, available at Cadence
Burberry Check Bifold Passport Holder
They’ll never forget where they placed their passport if it’s in a luxury passport holder. We’re eyeing Burberry’s plaid case for a classic and unisex design that your giftee won’t get tired of.
Burberry Check Bifold Passport Holder, $, available at Neiman Marcus
T3 Fit Compact Hair Dryer
Just because you’re outside your typical environment doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice your daily rituals, like hairstyling. And this compact hair dryer promises give a great blowout and perform better than any option a hotel offers.
A compact travel case is a necessity to keep treasured jewelry organized and tangle-free. This sleek and durable option from Cuyana has Italian pebbled leather and a suede interior. (There's also a larger case for those who generally go on longer trips and pack more belongings).
Cuyana Travel Jewelry Case, $, available at Cuyana
Monos Metro Belt Bag
We need to highlight this vegan leather bag that can be worn as a fanny pack or crossbody because it can also be hooked onto several other Monos bags and accessories like the laptop sleeve, backpack, and duffle bag, making it a versatile and thoughtful gift.
We’d be delighted to be gifted any skincare or bodycare from Aēsop. But the luxury brand’s curated travel gifts are ideal for the jet-setter on your list. This essentials kit is a universally appealing and practical set that’ll elevate hotel showers, especially thanks to the invigorating fragrance.
Uncommon Goods Retro Point & Shoot Camera Phone Converter
Got a photography lover on your list? This nifty add-on turns a smartphone camera into a traditional point-and-shoot, thanks to the retro-style shutter mechanism. The Bluetooth-enabled tool lends extra stability to the phone, and can be mounted onto a tripod.
Uncommon Goods Retro Point & Shoot Camera Phone Converter, $, available at Uncommon Goods
Béis The Compression Packing Cubes 6 pc
At this point, packing cubes are a packing must-have for most seasoned travelers. But on the off chance you don’t think your giftee owns any (or simple needs more), we recommend this Béis compression set, which can flatten for maximum luggage space.
Béis The Compression Packing Cubes 6 pc, $, available at Béis
Burberry Check Cotton-Blend Passport Holder
They’ll never forget where they placed their passport if it’s in a luxury passport holder. We’re eyeing Burberry’s plaid case for a classic and unisex design that your giftee won’t get tired of.
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