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Feeling overwhelmed trying to select beauty gifts for your friends and fam? Unsure what to request for yourself? Taking a look at you or a loved one’s zodiac sign can provide you with plenty of ideas.
In the zodiac, sun signs reflect our core identity. That’s what we value, prioritise, and think of when we imagine our “best selves.” So, zodiac signs can be a handy way to guide decisions when it comes to selecting gifts for our friends, family and colleagues. Or, if you have no idea what to request for yourself.
If you’re looking for a self-care gift, it pays to check out your moon sign as well. Our moon signs reflect our deepest needs and desires, including what makes us feel secure and fulfilled.
Related: Your 2023 Horoscope Is Here, and It’s Your Reinvention Era
At POPSUGAR Australia, we like to back up our research so we surveyed friends, family and acquaintances of every sign to get their opinion on the best gifts for them.
One thing to keep in mind: 90% of respondents mentioned either massage, botox or filler as their top gift. Several (the usual suspects Virgo, Capricorn, and Leo) were insistent on cash. Call it a sign of the times.
Capricorn, December 22 – January 19
Element: Earth
Modality: Cardinal
Represented by: The Goat
Ruled by: Saturn
Quote: “I’d love someone to book me in for a treatment at Melanie Grant, otherwise, Charlotte Tilbury’s new powder is apparently bomb.”
Ruled by Saturn, the planet that governs time, the clock is always ticking for Capricorn. Ambitious to a fault, they’re running a race they intend to win and are known for their laser focus, ruthlessness and boundless work ethic.
Capricorns can be intimidating people to know. They don’t suffer fools and they want everything done yesterday. The positives of having a Cap in your life? They generally party as hard as they play, have a caustic sense of humour and are almost as ambitious for their friends as they are for themselves. If you have a job interview coming up, need to pull off a logistically nightmarish Euro trip, or need to negotiate with your landlord, you can rely on your Capricorn friend to take charge.
Beauty Gift for Capricorn:
Capricorns like people and products that work as hard as they do.
They’re only impressed by the best, so give them something that’s well-reviewed and works. If you want to do something nice for them, outsource to an expert. Melanie Grant facial treatments are loved by Zoë Foster Blake and Hannah English. Their clinic offers treatments like Picosure laser that will give your Capricorn mate the powerful results they crave.
Want a product rec? Opt for something luxurious but practical, like the Charlotte Tilbury, Airbrush Brightening Flawless Finish Powder ($70). A multi-tasker just like Capricorn, this powder brightens, lifts, blurs and most importantly, will make their makeup last through their very long days.
Aquarius, January 20 – February 18
Element: Air
Modality: Fixed
Ruled by: Uranus
Represented by: The Water Bearer
Quote: “Louis Vuitton, Gradient Cosmetics Pouch – I don’t trust anyone to choose products and will buy everything else myself.”
Aquarians are ruled by Uranus, the planet of invention and innovation, altruism, and objectivity. What does this translate to? Aquarians are turbulent, expansive, creative and original, and abhor stagnant people and situations. Aquarians are natural iconoclasts, not because they actively enjoy rebellion, but because authority figures rarely measure up to their exacting leadership standards and strict, if idiosyncratic, moral code.
Highly altruistic Aquarians follow a ‘think global, try-not-to-pay-attention to the local’ approach to life. They’re likely to be found volunteering or involved in not-for-profits, but struggle to keep their eyes from rolling while listening to friends’ petty grievances. Don’t come to them with minor gripes because you will be reminded of every global challenge the human race is currently facing, but honestly, sometimes that’s the reality check we need!
Beauty Gift for Aquarius:
In the instance you can’t afford a Louis Vuitton cosmetics pouch, get your Aquarian something they can express themselves with. Aquarians are drawn to duality, so a palette that helps them feel connected to their not-of-this-world persona is perfect. Pat McGrath, Mothership I Subliminal Eyeshadow Palette ($222) is perfect. Duo-chrome finishes are complimented by get-sh*t-done neutrals, which means no shadow in this palette will be wasted, something Aquarians hate.
Pisces, February 19th – March 20
Element: Water
Modality: Mutable
Ruled by: Neptune
Represented by: The Fish
Quote: “Melatonin? Anything that will help sleep at night, and the new Westman Atelier Blush Stick.”
Symbolised by two fish swimming in opposite directions Pisces are a warm, empathetic zodiac sign that often struggles to get its own needs met. Sensitive souls, they’re ruled by Neptune, the planet that governs dreams and creativity. Like Gemini, Pisces have a rich internal world, and often fall into people pleasing. So, they protect their feelings by exerting control over their personal space. They’ll appreciate any gift that helps them indulge in and explore their fantasy world, or adds comfort to their bedtime routine.
Beauty Gift for Pisces:
Neptune governs the world of dreams, and Pisces decompress and work through their emotions by exploring their subconscious. Give them a leg up here with Slip, Pink Travel Set ($140). They can lay their head to rest on cooling 100% mulberry silk, and block out bad vibes with a matching eye mask. The perfect accompaniment is a Vyrao, Rose Marie Candle ($137,) developed specifically for self-love practices. Vyrao employ a “Quantum Energist” to supercharge their products with different properties, and the Rose Marie candle features violet leaf absolute for self-expression, patchouli for grounding and guaiac wood for energy clearing, all combined to support self-love.
Related: 30 Beauty Gifts Under $50 That Will *Genuinely* Spark Joy This Holiday
Aries, March 21 – April 19
Element: Fire
Represented by: The Ram
Ruled by: Mars
Modality: Cardinal
Quote: “Don’t do red lipstick, Aries always get lumped with red lipstick but we’re too busy eating and drinking for that — maybe Hourglass bronzer or super pink blush.”
It is typical of an argumentative Aries to begin a request by telling you what they don’t want. Ruled by Mars (the planet of war), Aries are energetic, feisty, and a lot of fun. They live high-impact lives and they like high-impact makeup and skincare. They also need things that are relatively fool-proof — they’re too busy ordering Jagerbombs at the bar (despite your protests) to bother touching up their lipstick.
Beauty Gift for Aries:
Go for eye-catching colours that are easy to use. Hourglass, Ambient Lighting Blush ($65) and Ambient Lighting Bronzers ($84) are perfect, because they’re glowy rather than glittery. Their luminous colour is shot through with the Hourglass’ sheer Ambient Lighting Powder formula, meaning they can pretty much be applied on the go and without a mirror, which you know is exactly how your Aries is going to do it.
Alternately, go for a tan remover like the tactfully titled James Read, Tan Edit Drops ($48). This sign loves an outdoorsy tan but you better believe they’re not waiting the suggested 60 minutes before jumping into their sequinned mini and hitting the club.
Taurus, April 20 – May 20
Element: Earth
Modality: Fixed
Represented by: The Bull
Ruled by: Venus
Taureans are so “fixed” they’re basically nailed to the floor. Think Queen Elizabeth II and you’ll get the picture. Hardworking, determined and consistent, once a Taurus commits to something, they’re in it for the long haul. Taureans crave stability and consistency above all else, and loathe discomfort or sudden change. Ruled by Venus, they’re pleasure-seeking romantics, and they love treating themselves — it can be hard to think of a gift for a Taurus because they rarely deny themselves the things they truly want.
Beauty Gift for Taurus:
Taureans will love a classic candle that makes their home more comfortable — think cosy, classic scents like Le Labo, Santal 26 Scented Candle ($124) or Diptique, Orange Ambre ($140).
If you’re looking to really spoil a Taurus though, indulge their sensual side with a trip to Venustus, Paddington for one of their famous Six Hand Massages.
Expect hot stones, sage sticks and sound bowls that may initially overwhelm the practical Taurus. But, as three beauty therapists working in tandem on calves, buttocks and back, they’ll revel in the grandeur and indulgence. Plus, with the added benefit is lymphatic drainage, the six-hand massage will be just the restorative experience they need.
Related: Give the Gift of Holy Grails With the Most Iconic Beauty Advent Calendars of 2022
Gemini, May 21 – June 20
Element: Air
Modality: Mutable
Represented by: The Twins
Ruled by: Mercury
Quote: “Skinceuticals Vitamin C serum because it’s so expensive that I couldn’t possibly justify buying it for myself.”
Represented by the twins, Geminis have a reputation for being two-faced. Really, they’re just terribly uncomfortable with emotions and decision-making, and have their ruling planet retrograding through the zodiac multiple times a year. Whimsical and cerebral, Geminis are most comfortable in the realm of ideas, analysis and creativity. They’re sociable and charming, but unlike Leo, they play their cards close to the chest. This is because they’re not always sure what those cards are — when they make a decision it’s often as much of a surprise to them as anyone else.
Beauty Gift for Gemini:
Geminis have surprisingly modest habits, and enjoy clothes and beauty routines that are minimalistic and focused on quality (think The Row).
They’re as alarmed by big gestures as they are by emotional ultimatums, but Geminis will be genuinely touched by anything that makes them feel seen and heard, because often feel misunderstood. What they really love is knowledge — they love accumulating fun facts and little details, so find products that indulge one of their best traits.
If they’re into beauty, consider gifting them Lisa Eldridge’s Face Paint: The Story of Makeup ($31), which provides a sweeping history of the ancient art form.
If a Gemini has confided a problem in you, it’s best to take note and provide them with a clever solution. Skinceuticals Vitamin CE Ferulic Serum ($233) is clinically backed, effective AF, and if you flick them this sciencey demonstration from Lab Muffin beauty science, they’re sure to be delighted.
Related: Your Astrological Birth Chart, Explained
Cancer, June 21 – July 22
Element: Water
Modality: Cardinal
Symbol: The Crab
Ruled by: The Moon
Quote: “A lifetime supply of Tatcha Water Cream.”
Cancers are ruled by the moon, the planet that represents maternal energy, intuition and memories. Cancers like to take care of people and themselves, and tend to have longstanding friendships and relationships that they carefully nurture. They love hosting intimate dinners and curating social groups. Highly emotional, they can be prone to anxiety and people-pleasing. Be wary of taking a Cancer for granted or frightening them with temper tantrums — if they feel like they can’t make you happy, they’ll scuttle off quickly rather than risk confrontation.
Beauty Gift for Cancer:
The best gift for Cancer is smooth waters and consistency. They shy away from unpredictable people and situations and don’t love trying new things. If they have a staple product, like our Cancers beloved Tatcha, The Water Cream ($104), don’t be afraid to buy them backups. They’ll appreciate it.
Another idea is to get them something that supports their need for self-care, dreaminess and love of water. French beauty brand Buly creates luxuriant self-care products perfect for romantic cancers who need to carve out time for themselves. Officine Universelle Buly Fragrant Bathsalts with Heliotrope ($53) purify, cleanse and support relaxation, and have the added benefit of heliotrope — a scent that soothes nerves and has aphrodisiac qualities.
Leo, July 23 – August 22
Element: Fire
Modality: Fixed
Represented by: The Lion
Ruled by: The Sun
Quote: “Something that makes me look rich.”
Three words you’ll never hear from a Leo? “You shouldn’t have.” Ruled by the sun, Leo is expansive, constant and loyal. Like the lion, they’re tribal creatures, and while they’ll hand you a wish list as long as their arm, they mainly just want to feel loved, appreciated and part of the gang. That said, as a fixed sign, the way they give and receive love is pretty literal — subtly isn’t their strong suit. Extravagant gestures, flashy gifts and public displays of affection that would mortify other signs will delight a Leo, so go big or go home.
Leo has an all-eyes-on-me attitude to beauty. After all, sun is a phenomenon around which all the planets orbit, and they feel most comfortable when they’re the centre of attention. They’re not interested in weird or trendy products, they just want things that make them look hot and feel expensive. Sure, it might be basic, but it’s working for Meghan Markle.
Beauty Gift For Leo:
When a Leo is having a good day, you’ll know it. When a Leo is having a bad day, you’ll also know it. But if a Leo is having a bad hair day? Well, it can derail an entire day at the office or night on the town. Nip this problem in the bud and bring out the best in your Leo with a trip to Emilly Hadrill Hair and Extensions.
They’ll give your Leo the mane they’ve always dreamed of, and you’ll get months of peace. Unwilling to splash quite that much cash? Get them something that makes them feel and look good instantly, like Patrick Ta, Major Glow Body Oil ($95), which leaves limbs and décolleté dripping in gold.
Related: What It Means to Have a Fixed Sign in Your Birth Chart
Virgo, August 23 – September 22
Element: Earth
Modality: Mutable
Represented by: The Maiden
Ruled by: Mercury
Quote: It took several tried to find a Virgo who didn’t insist on “cash” as the perfect gift. Finally? “A manicure, it’s all in the details.”
Virgos know what they want, and they know very few people can give it to them.
Tell them you’ve got them a present, and you’ll get a look of concern. Not because they think they don’t deserve it, but because they’re worried they won’t like it.
Relentlessly analytical, highly motivated and exacting, Virgos notice everything. They are constantly scanning for inconsistencies and imperfections, and have strong preferences when it comes to matters of taste. When it comes to the items they invest in, Virgos do their research. You better believe they’re reading choice.com.au before buying that toaster.
Beauty Gift for Virgo:
If you must insist on buying them a gift, make sure it’s evidence-backed. A pricy tool like Dr Naomi, LED It Glow Mask ($595) will allow them to make even their downtime productive (pop on that mask and listen to their mindfulness meditation), plus, it’s made along the strictest parameters for light therapy effectiveness. You could also play to their health neurosis and buy them an AI Toothbrush like the Oral-B io 7 ($374), so they can rest easy knowing they’re set for another glowing dental report card.
Libra, September 23 – October 22
Element: Air
Modality: Cardinal
Represented by: The Scales
Ruled by: Venus
Quote: “Some kind of makeup that is also jewellery, a candle that can also be a massage oil? Idk, something that does two things but is also hot!”
Represented by the scales, Librans strive for balance in all things, which can make them incredibly indecisive. Persuasive and charming, they’re easy to get along with and are life’s natural mediators. Harmony is something Librans strive for at all times, whether in their personal lives or in their home décor. Ruled by Venus, they are drawn to beautiful objects and rival Leos for image consciousness.
Venus also means they love to love — they’re sure to have a network of dedicated “besties”, but what they really want is a life partner. Although they’re natural flirts, Librans are actually serial monogamists. Sensual and romantic, they love discovering different ways to make their partner happy and creating deep connections.
Beauty Gift for Libra:
As expressed by our respondent, products that serve two purposes appeal to the Libran desire for beauty in all things. What better gift than an ornate candle to spice up their serial monogamy? Just make sure it’s suitably chic, like this Santa Maria Novella, Candela Da Massagio ($95) beauty.
Whether it’s a coffee stain on their new designer shirt or an unsightly blemish, minor imperfections cause Librans major distress. Offer them an aesthetic solution with Squish Beauty, Flower Power Acne Patches ($23). These aesthetic pimple patches will take Libra from squeezing blemishes in front of the bathroom mirror to posting TikToks from the club with ease.
Related: 21 Luxury Beauty Gifts For the Friends, Lovers and Fire Signs in Your Life
Scorpio, October 23 – November 21
Element: Water
Modality: Fixed
Represented by: The Scorpion
Ruled by: Pluto
Quote: Scorpio gets two quotes because they’re both typical.
Scorpio 1: “A unique fragrance that I’ve been dropping endless hints about, but I will believe it was chosen because the person smelt it and thought ‘that captures the intoxicating spirit of her’.”
Scorpio 2: “Botox so good no one can tell I’ve had it done, but I look unusually rested *sunglass emoji*”
Scorpios are the toughest, most inventive and perhaps most diabolical of the water signs. Witty, shrewd and intuitive, if you’re sat next to a Scorpio at a dinner party they’ll keep you entertained all night. If that meeting turns into a friendship, you’ll discover a deeply loyal, emotionally intelligent but sometimes intense and demanding friend. Ruled by Pluto — the planet of destruction and reinvention — Scorpios are constantly striving for personal transformation.
Full of contradictions, your Scorpio friend is someone whose goals might seem fantastical until you see their neat, bullet-pointed, five-year action plan.
Beauty Gift for Scorpio:
In an effort to maintain their hard and sharp persona, Scorpios can be secretive about what they want, but they’ll be delighted if you pick up on their hints.
Fixed signs may seem mysterious, but they don’t waste words. Listen closely and a Scorpio is usually telling you exactly what they want. It’s no coincidence that the two Scorpios we spoke to responded immediately without umming and ahhing. Drawn to fantasy, emotions and transformation, Scorpios often have a love of scent, the most ephemeral and emotional “beauty category.” If you’re still unsure, find a slept-on beauty destination that will give them exactly what they want: a beauty secret.
Sagittarius, November 22 – December 21
Element: Fire
Modality: Mutable
Represented by: The Archer
Ruled by: Jupiter
Quote: “A trip to a detox retreat in India, then you have my attention. Beauty for the mind, body and soul.”
If you don’t want to spend thousands on your Sagittarian friend’s ‘New Year, New Me’ international cleanse, we’ve got some ideas.
Restless lateral thinkers Sagittarians are busy. Between taking online ADHD quizzes and rushing from one project to the next, they like their beauty regimens on their terms.
Their intellectual curiosity means they’re drawn to novel new experiences and ideas. They’ll be tickled by clever products that streamline their routine, like Kiss, Magnetic Lashes ($20) or two-in-one products they can use on the go, like the Nudestix, Nudies Best Sellers Kit Mini Collection ($80).
However, do not come at them with anything fiddly or gimmicky or they will come at you. Represented by the archer, forward motion is key for Sagittarians. Anything that monopolises their time and slows them down will not only be put in the ‘too hard’ basket — it will actively infuriate them. To avoid the alarming mood shift of a Sagittarian faced with an obstacle or frustration, keep it simple.
Beauty Gift for Sagittarius:
Give them something that will make their on-the-go lives faster and easier. This Etoile Collective, Canvas Twin Pouch ($40) cosmetics case is perfect for the slightly scattered star sign who is always on the move. Divided into two compartments, the exterior shell is clear, meaning there’s no rifling blindly for the product you need. Your Sagittarian mate will be able to find exactly which of the 10 lip glosses they’re looking for, wherever they are in the world. It’s boring but practical, so chuck some of the above beauty products in there and they’ll treat it like a piñata.
