There's no getting around it - medicine is hard work. Long hours on their feet, mountains of paperwork on computer screens, and a million priorities to manage on way too little sleep. It's a a tall order for anyone. Fortunately for the health care worker in your life, whether they're a colleague, friend, relative or significant other, we're here with suggestions for gifts they'll love (and actually use!)
1. Some top-notch skincare
Though everyone is now acutely aware of the consequences of all-day mask-wearing (helloooo, mask-ne!) doctors and nurses were doing it first. Combat dry skin and irritation with a really great skincare product that works as hard as they do.
Some of our top picks include this cult-favourite moisturizer from First Aid Beauty, this affordable (yet effective) daily set from The Ordinary, and these ultra-luxe 24k gold eye patches from Peter Thomas Roth
2. A caffeination routine upgrade
Marilyn can keep her diamonds, caffeine is a medical professional's best friend. From coffee to tea and everything in between, helping your favourite care provider caffeinate smarter, faster or cheaper is sure to be deeply - deeply - appreciated.
If you're splashing out, consider a Vertuoline Nespresso machine and some funky capsules. These machines make a quality cup faster than you can say “I'll have a large coffee, please!”
On the more budget-conscious end, try a gourmet chai latte kit from Dona, a luxe holiday sampler set from Parisian brand Kusmi Tea, or even a really great travel mug in their favourite colour.
3. Level-up their note-taking game
We know - everyone has an iPad these days. But sometimes you just need to feel pen on paper - and for the moments when batteries fail, paper reigns supreme. A great pen or notepad can make anyone feel professional, in-control and on top of their game. Here are some great options:
Stuff their stockings with these minimalist favourites from Muji, or blow their mind with the hefty Squire pen from BaronFig. Once the pen is taken care of, all they need is somewhere to write! You can't go wrong with a classic notebook from Leuchtturm or Moleskine, or go for a heavy-duty planner, like this totally-customizable LifePlanner by Erin Condren.
4. Help them get their much-needed rest
Nothing feels better than a great night of sleep after a long day. The most caring, restorative thing that you can do for someone you love is help them catch up on Zs, and we've got some ideas for you! For the on-call colleague, try a sleep mask to block out those hospital lights - we love this weighted one from Nodpod.
For the sleep-deprived student, try a relaxing nighttime routine including this Beauty Sleep kit from ThisWorks, a beautiful Deep Sleep bath from Lush, and a soothing cup of Celestial Seasoning's iconic Sleepytime tea.
5. Keep them comfy - and in style
So style may not be the most important thing going through a medical professional's head in the morning, but feeling good and being comfortable on the job are undeniably important.
Kit your loved one out in the best with a set of Figs scrubs. For long shifts, a thoughtful gift-giver would be sure of a grateful response to Allbirds super-cushy wool runners.
We hope this gift guide finds you well, and that the holiday season brings you together with friends, family and loved ones.
All the best from the MedsHousing team!