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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle
Sarah Matthews

The best beauty Advent calendars in the UK in 2026, tested – from bargain buys to cult favourites

Four colourful beauty advent calendars with numbered drawers and a green woven basket, on yellow background

Christmas might feel like an age away, but the festive season has already begun for fans of beauty Advent calendars. Most of this year’s calendars are now on sale or available to preorder, and many of the most popular could sell out long before Whamageddon claims its first victim.

So, much as it pains me to say it, now might be a good time to buy one. Below, you’ll find my favourites, from bargain beauty Advent calendars under £50 to three-figure luxuries. I’ve tested 20 to find calendars packed with cult-favourite products suitable for a whole spectrum of skin types and preferences. I also looked at the packaging and broad appeal of each calendar to help minimise waste.

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