If you are the type of person who can pick up a hair straightener of any make, model and type, and proceed to make luscious Hollywood barrel curls in your hair, this article is not for you.
No, this story is for the Aussies who simply have not mastered the art of hair styling in its many forms and are crying out for some sort of instruction, and maybe some hand holding.
As I was scrolling through Facebook the other day, I noticed a status that caught my eye.
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It was a friend of mine asking for assistance in selecting a curling wand that is “for dummies” and doesn’t require any expertise in the slightest.
While you’d be forgiven for thinking something from ghd or a Dyson Airwrap would be the first port of call, I was astonished to see three separate comments calling for her to try the Muk Curl Stick.
The Muk what? I’ve never even heard of this brand, much less seen it in action. And it was being labelled the “best on the market”.
Turns out it’s a genius wand that comes with four different styles of attachment, so you simply plug and play to get tight ringlets or beachy waves.
The wand is usually $179.95 but during Adore Beauty’s Black Friday sale you can pick one up at 20 per cent off, for $143.96.
Muk Curl Stick ensures an even and consistent temperature, ensuring your curls are always bouncy, beautiful and perfect.
The heat is also in your control with five temperature settings 120°C, 150°C, 170°C, 190°C and 210°C.
Plus, it comes with a three-metre, 360 degree swivel cord which allows you unparalleled access to all sections of your hair.
“I have previously LOVED my ghd curling wand. Last time I went to the hairdresser, she styled my hair with this Muk Stick. So I decided to buy one for myself and see if I could recreate the bouncy goddess curls she gave me,” one woman wrote on Adore Beauty.
“I was not disappointed. Quick to heat up. SO QUICK to curl! I normally have to wait 10 to 15 seconds on my thick coarse/frizzy (type 2B) hair.
“I had it set on the second highest setting which is 190 degrees as today my hair was blow dried straight, and only had to hold it for five seconds to get an amazing curl.”
Another said: “This curling stick is definitely my new best friend. I opted for this because it came with the different size barrels and I’m glad I did. Such good value for money, so easy to use and my curls last.”
These are my current must-haves from Adore Beauty (all of which are included in the Black Friday deals):
1. Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, from $31 to $24.80
Four flavours of the Sleeping Mask are available at Adore Beauty and with 20 per cent off now is the time to pick up the cult classic.
It’s my go-to lip sheen when I need some hydration (and colour) but am not looking for a lipstick or anything too matte.
It has won numerous awards, went viral on TikTok and has become a certified holy grail, preventing dryness and flakiness overnight with a single swipe.
Lanolips, which is also sold on Adore Beauty, is another close favourite of mine if you’re looking for a touch more colour.
2. Weleda Skin Food, from $27.95 to $22.36
I spent three months living in Scotland a few years ago and during that time I became acquainted with Skin Food.
Even though I was there during the summer months, anyone who has spent some time in the UK will know how the temperature can turn on a dime.
And I really relied on this classic, thick moisturiser to keep dryness at bay.
It has 101 uses and can be put on both the face and body, depending on where you need a little bit of nourishment.
I’ll definitely be stocking up during the Black Friday sale.
3. Wella Professionals INVIGO Color Brilliance Colour Protection Shampoo and Conditioner, from $31.85 to $19.11
When you’re a chronic hair colourer like I am, you need products that are going to help maintain your colour either side of your dye jobs.
Wella Professionals is tried and true, hairdresser-approved and the technology is top notch, so I really enjoy this particular colour protection duo.
Not only do the red bottles stand out in the shower, they also have an offering for just about every hair type, cut and colour.
This 40 per cent off deal is not often repeated so if you’re in need of a top up, get clicking.
4. Viviology Niacinamide + HA Serum, from $55 to $44
James Vivian — the founder of Viviology — is well respected in the beauty industry for his incredibly simple but effective skincare.
This serum helps with blemished-prone skin and dehydration, both of the types of things that tend to culminate after nights of Christmas parties and alcoholic beverages.
So I’ll definitely be topping up on the 30ml bottle while it’s reduced, and keeping the lightweight gel in my handbag.
5. Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Liquid Rehydration Serum, from $90 to $72
Speaking of hydration, the Medik8 range is another favourite of mine because the products are cosmeceutical grade.
The B5 serum contains a nourishing blend of moisture-boosting hyaluronic acid and skin-softening Vitamin B5.
It’s also artificial fragrance free, vegan, cruelty free and alcohol free.
This moisturising serum has a weightless texture, allowing for easy and fast absorption and definitely enhances the luminosity.
6. Mermade Hair No Crease Clips, from $10 to $8
I know what you’re thinking… how have a bunch of clips made the cut?
Well, my friends, anyone who has ever had a fringe or curtain bangs and has needed to either remove makeup, apply it, shower or head to the gym will know that those pesky hairs can get in the way.
I don’t go anywhere without clips like this and I use them to pin back my tendrils when I need a clear canvas on my face.
These Mermade ones get extra points for being pink.
7. Makeup Forever HD Skin All-In-One Palette, from $140 to $105.
I already own this palette and have done so for some time.
Sadly, I purchased it at full price, so don’t make the same mistake I did, and get it while it’s 25 per cent off.
This palette is the ultimate jet-setter and comes with me to various overseas locations when I need one-and-done colours on my face.
Blush, contour, foundation, highlighter, concealer… you name it and the palette delivers.
You can shop the full Black Friday sale on Adore Beauty.